Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned properly or are difficult to operate.
It's important that your double glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you'll lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to repair your door lock for reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key is snapped inside the lock. It could also be a security problem in that it can expose you to burglars if your door does not lock. There are a few quick fixes you can make to fix the problem and get your door working again.
Be calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Spray WD-40, or any other penetrating lubricant, into the lock. This will help the broken piece to emerge more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break any pieces that are stuck. If you have a piece of the key that's stuck, grab it with a paperclip or another thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the damaged key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you don't have any of these handy, you can make use of needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. You can also use a pair tweezers to grab and remove the last piece of broken keys.
If you can't get the broken piece of the key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. This is usually available at most hardware stores. It works by freezing any moisture or ice that might be inside the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it could be time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are more easy to use. You can schedule a double-glazing repair online or contact us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose a serious security risk. Luckily, it's an easy repair for a professional locksmith to complete. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. They can do this using a hammer or other tool, but the best way is to employ a long match or piece of wire. Position the match or the wire's end close to the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock in order to break it. This is superior to using the hammer, which could cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the main cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made of different metals, like cast iron and aluminum. When the different metals are heated and cool at different rates, it may create hotspots locally that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Corrosion is a different cause of fractures in cylinders. If the cylinder head as well as the cylinder block aren't properly maintained, it can result in corrosion or rust that could cause them to expand at a greater rates than they should. This can cause cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC door or window lock is stiff or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, this can be caused by several things. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment, or the wear of the handle are typical reasons for this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and cost-effective fix for the majority of homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith is able to solve this issue within an hour of arriving at the home. They can replace the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, depending on your specific needs. A professional locksmith will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that offer an additional layer of protection from burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks may break. They have complex mechanisms that wear out over time. If yours breaks it's difficult to pinpoint the cause of the problem and make sure you fix it properly.
The issue could be related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, fixing the broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you stop drafts. It is costly to replace or repair the handle in a way that isn't done correctly. It can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver: With the window open remove the screw that holds the handle. The screw should be on the inside face of the back plate, normally concealed by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. Be sure to not lose any internal components inside the handle, such as the levers or plates on either side of the spindle. It is best to keep them in the same order so you can replace them again when needed.
Then, using an additional screwdriver loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle at the back. Once the screw is loose, pull the handle out and remove the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, read more ensuring it is the same length as the previous one (you will typically find them on the internet or at hardware stores) and securely screw it into the correct position. Do not overtighten the screw because this could damage the handle and the window frame.
Ensure the new handle is fitted after which you can close and test the handle. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able unlock your window.
While you're working on the handle, be sure to make sure your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they're not closing properly, you may double glazing company near me experience double glazing company near me draughts or damp in your home. Also, you could be compromising the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they can shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break than the handle. This is particularly typical in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These types of windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is connected to a central rod that activates a series of mushroom-shaped locking cams that lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open after the handle is turned, it is likely the spindle is damaged. This could be a frustrating issue.
There are ways to fix this issue. A skilled locksmith can quickly and efficiently fix this problem. A reputable locksmith will be able disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool that removes the wheel portion where the spindle is located. This can be done with no damage to the handle or window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician can examine the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting each component part, noting any wear or damage. This process is usually carried out by technicians in a clean and safe environment.
The next read more step is to clean the damaged spindle, this assists in removing any dirt or double glazing units near me other debris that could be hindering its normal functioning. The spindle could then be repaired or replaced. If it's being replaced, the technician can take a dowel of a similar size to the original and drill mating holes into both parts of the spindle. This ensures that the new spindle is a precise fit with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it could be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the style of your window is unusual then it will be necessary to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact component for you. Once the new spindle is in place it can be attached to the handle by line up the screw holes on the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.