15 Reasons You Shouldn't Ignore Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism not working properly? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
You will lose energy when your double-glazed doors do not function properly. This increases the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to repair your door lock for a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key is snapped into the lock. This can also be a security issue, as it may leave you vulnerable to an intruder if the door does not lock. Fortunately, there are quick fixes that you can use to solve the issue and get your door working properly again.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the broken key further into the lock.
Spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil, into the lock. This will help the broken piece emerge more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break pieces that could be blocking the way. If you have a piece of the key that is still sticking out then grab it using a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the broken key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can work in a pinch to extract hooks and Jigsaw blades can also be used for this function. If you don't happen to have any of these then you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, you can use a pair tweezers to grab and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
If you are unable remove the broken key piece then you can use a lock deicer. It is found in most hardware stores. It works by freezing any water or ice that could be inside the lock.
If none of these strategies seem to be helping, it might be the time to contact locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix issues such as broken handles and snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are more easy to operate. Book a double glazing repair via our website or give us a call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder is a serious security threat. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder to fix it. This can be accomplished with a hammer or other tool. The best method is to employ a wire or long match. Then, place the match's tip or wire in the keyway. After that, the locksmith will strike the lock and break it open. This is much safer than using a hammer, which could damage the lock.
The most frequent cause of cylinder head cracks is overheating. This can occur when the cylinder head and block are made of various metals, such as cast-iron or aluminium. When the various metals are heated and cool at different rates, it can create hotspots locally that expand faster than the rest of the head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.
Corrosion is a different reason for cracks in the cylinder. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained in a timely manner they could rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand faster than they would normally. This can lead to cracks over time.
If your uPVC door or window lock is brittle or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, this can be caused by a number of things. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment or the wear of the handle are typical reasons for this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and inexpensive fix for most homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith will usually be able to resolve this problem within an hour of arriving at your property. Depending on your needs, they can replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience can always advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders which provide an additional layer of protection from burglars. It's a small amount to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that deteriorate as time passes and use, so it's not a surprise that they sometimes break. If yours fails it's difficult to determine the source of the issue. Make sure you fix it properly.
Fixing the broken handle, whether it's an internal latch or locking mechanism can increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be expensive and could harm the door's frame as well as lock, so it's worth taking some time to make sure you do it right.
With the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle with the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the back plate, and is normally covered by an attractive cover for the screw for aesthetic reasons. It is not recommended to be able to replace any internal parts of the handle such as the plates and levers on either side. Keep them in the same arrangement to make it easier to replace them if needed.
Then, rotate the handle so it's at 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw on the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is free, you can pull the handle out and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or in hardware stores). Screw it in the frame. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Make sure the new handle is correctly fitted after which you can close and test the handle. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able to open your window once more.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they don't, you could experience damp and draughts inside your home as well as compromising your home's energy efficiency. double glazing repair near me , such as Core Sash Windows, will be in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames so they can shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle within the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is particularly frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle that operates an electronic locking mechanism within the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a central rod that triggers the locks that are shaped like mushrooms and secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open after the handle is turned, it is most likely the spindle is broken. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are ways to fix this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. They can disassemble the window handle by using a tool to remove the wheel component of the mechanism, where the spindle goes. This can be done without causing any damage to the handle or causing any other damage to the frame of the window.
Once the wheel has been removed, the technician will inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining each component part, noting any damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically performed by technicians in a clean and safe environment.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or debris that could be hindering its normal operation. The spindle could be repaired or replaced. If it is being replaced the technician will need a dowel of a similar size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes into both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle is perfectly matched with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it could be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers can sell generic replacements but if the window design is unusual you'll require contacting an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can recreate the exact component. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be positioned to the handle by lining up the screw holes in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the handle is set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.