11 Methods To Refresh Your Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Perhaps the door or window handles don't meet up properly or are difficult to use.
It is crucial that your double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you'll be wasting energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key gets stuck inside the lock. It's also potentially a security risk, as the door may not be locked and leave you open to intrusion. There are fortunately quick fixes that you can attempt to fix the problem and get your door functioning properly again.
Be sure to remain calm. If double glazing repair near me panic and begin poking around wildly, you might just end up pushing the broken piece of the key deeper into the lock, thereby making the situation worse.
Next spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any stuck pieces that could be hindering the flow. If you're lucky enough to have a little bit of the key left visible and you want to remove it, make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and then pull it out. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the damaged key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as a hook extractor and jigsaw blades are also suitable for this purpose. If you don't happen to have one of these tools then you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and pull out the last piece of the key that was broken.
If you are unable to remove the broken piece of key, use a lock deicer. It's usually found in most hardware stores. It is used to freeze any moisture or ice that may be inside the lock.
If none of these tricks appear to be working, it might be time to call locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix problems such as broken handles or snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are simpler to operate. You can request a double-glazing repair online or contact us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose an extremely risky security issue. Luckily, it's an easy repair for professional locksmiths to complete. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. This can be done using the hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to employ a wire or long match. Place the match or wire's end close to the keyway. After this, the locksmith will strike the lock to crack it open. This is more secure than using the hammer, which could damage the lock.
The most frequent cause for cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can occur when the cylinder head and block are made of various metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. Different metals will heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest.
Corrosion is a different reason for cracks in the cylinder. When the cylinder head and cylinder block are not properly maintained, this can result in corrosion or rust, which may cause them to expand at a more than they ought to. In time, this could also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window lock or door is brittle or requires lots of pressure to turn, this could be due to several things. This problem can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment and also a worn out handle.
It is a quick and cost-effective fix that a majority of double glazing owners can do. A professional locksmith is able to fix this problem within one hour of arriving at your property. They can replace the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes based on the specific requirements of your home. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that offer an additional security layer from burglars. It is a small cost to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks may break. They have intricate mechanisms which deteriorate over time. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the cause of the broken window handle lock and then fix it properly.
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 the draughts. It could be costly to replace or repair your handle if it is not done correctly and can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver Open the window remove the screw that holds the handle. It should be located on the inside face of the back plate, normally covered by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. Be careful not to damage any of the internal components within the handle, like the plates or levers that are on either side of the spindle. It is best to keep them in the same place so you can replace them in the event of a need.
Next, turn the handle until it's 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw on the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle by using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you can remove the handle and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, making sure that it's the same length as the old one (you can usually find these online or in hardware stores) and screw it securely into place. Do not overtighten the screw as this can cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Make sure the new handle is fitted, then close and test the handle. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able open your window again.
Make sure to check that your uPVC window is shut properly when you're using the handle. If they're not closing properly then you may experience damp and draughts in your home, as well as compromising your home's energy efficiency. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be able to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more common for the spindle to break than the handle. This is most common in uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as an locking device within the frame of the window. The handle is attached to a central rod which is then activated by a series of cams that look like mushrooms, they locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle has been turned, it is most likely the spindle is broken. This can be a frustrating problem.
Luckily there are ways to fix this problem. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and efficiently solve the issue. A reputable locksmith will be able disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool that removes the wheel part in which the spindle is. This is done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician will inspect the spindle and determine the cause of the break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining each component part, noting any wear or damage. The process is carried out in a clean environment by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or debris that might be hindering its normal functioning. The spindle could then 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. Then, he will drill matching holes into both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle has a precise fit with the handle.
If the damaged spindle cannot be repaired it may require replacement completely. Home centres sell generic substitutes but if the window design is unusual, you will need to contact an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can make the exact piece. After the spindle is installed, it can be connected to the handle. The screw holes on the handle with the existing screws in the frame. Once the handle is firmly in place, you can use your uPVC windows.