10 Misconceptions Your Boss Shares About Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Is your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Perhaps the window or door handles aren't able to connect correctly or are difficult to use.
It is crucial that your double glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you'll be wasting energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock for an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off inside a lock, it could be incredibly annoying. It could also be an issue for security, since the door may not be locked and could leave you vulnerable to burglars. Fortunately, there are quick fixes you can attempt to fix the problem and get your door operating properly once more.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the broken key further into the lock.
Spray WD-40, or another penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will assist the broken piece emerge more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break any pieces that are stuck. If you have a piece of the key that's stuck out then grab it using the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods are effective, but you need to be careful not to push the broken key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you don't have one of these tools then you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Also, a pair tweezers can be used to grip and pull out the remaining bit of the broken key.
If you are unable remove the broken key piece, use a lock deicer. It is available at most hardware stores, and it works by freezing any water or ice that could be in the lock.
If none of these tricks are working you, it's time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can fix problems such as broken handles and snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. You can request an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or contact us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder poses a serious security threat. Luckily, it's an easy repair for an expert locksmith to complete. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. They can do this using the hammer or any other tools, but the most effective method is to make use of an extended match or piece of wire. Position the match or the wire's end in the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock to crack it. This is better than using a hammer, which can cause damage to the lock.
The most frequent cause for cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can happen when the block and cylinder head are made from different metals like cast-iron and aluminium. When various metals are heated and cool at different rates, it could cause localised hotspots that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Corrosion is a different cause of cylinder fractures. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained properly, they can rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand faster than expected. This can cause cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires a lot of pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety of reasons. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment, or the wear of the handle are typical causes of this problem.
Fortunately, this is an easy and cost-effective fix for the majority of double glazing owners. A professional locksmith is able to solve this issue within an hour of arriving at your property. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes based on the specific requirements of your home. A professional locksmith can always advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which provide 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 become less effective over time. It isn't easy to determine the reason behind the broken window handle lock and fix it correctly.
Whether the problem is with the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you to stop draughts. When you aren't doing it right, replacing or repairing your handle can be expensive and can damage the door's frame and lock It is therefore worth taking the time to do it correctly.
With the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle with a screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside face of the back plate, normally covered by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. You should not be able to replace any internal parts of the handle, such as the plates and levers on either side. Keep them in the same order to make it easier to replace if necessary.
Then, rotate the handle so it's at 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle with a second screwdriver. Once this is removed, you should be in a position to pull the handle off and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can purchase them online or in hardware stores). Securely screw it into the frame. Be careful not to tighten too much because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able unlock your window.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is closing properly when you're working with the handle. If they don't cause damp and draughts inside your home, as and also affecting your home's energy efficiency. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames so they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is particularly common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as an electronic locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is attached to a centre rod that triggers a set of cams that resemble mushrooms, which lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned it is possible that the spindle is broken, this can be a frustrating problem.
Luckily there are Spalding double glazing repair that can be taken to fix this problem. A skilled locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. They can disassemble the window handle by using a tool that removes the wheel component of the mechanism that is where the spindle goes. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After the wheel has been removed, the technician can inspect the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining each component, noting any damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians in an environment that is clean.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This assists in removing any debris or dirt that could be hindering its normal functioning. After this the spindle is cleaned, it can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, it is possible to use a dowel that is the same size to the original. He will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle is perfectly matched with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers can sell generic replacements however if your window design is unique then you'll have to speak with an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can replicate the exact part. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be fitted to the handle by line up the holes for screws in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the handle is set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.