15 Weird Hobbies That'll Make You More Effective At Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Maybe the window or door handles aren't able to connect properly or are difficult to use.
You'll be wasting energy when your double-glazed doors do not perform as they should. This increases the risk of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be quite frustrating when a key snaps into a lock. This can also be a security problem because it could expose you to a burglar if the door does not lock. Fortunately, there are some quick fixes that you can attempt to fix the issue and get your door functioning properly again.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
Next spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break up any pieces stuck that might be blocking the way. If you have a part of the key stuck and is not being removed, 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 broken key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades can also work well for this. If you do not have any of these available, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. Finally, you can make use of a pair of tweezers to grab and remove the last piece of broken keys.
If you can't get the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. It's usually available at all hardware stores, and it is used to freeze any water or ice that could be in the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it may be time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly fix problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. You can book an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or call us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose an immediate security risk. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for a professional locksmith to complete. A locksmith must tap the cylinder to repair it. They can do this with an hammer or another tool, but the most efficient way is to make use of a long match or a piece of wire. Position the match or the wire's end in the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock in order to break it. This is better than using a hammer, which can harm the lock.
The most frequent cause for cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can occur when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made of various metals, such as cast iron and 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 cylinder head, thus leading to cracks.
Corrosion is a different reason for fractures in cylinders. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained properly, they can rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand more than expected. Over time, this can cause cracks.
If your uPVC door or window lock is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, this can be caused by several things. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment or an old handle are the most common reasons for this issue.
Fortunately it is a simple and affordable fix for the majority of double glazing owners. A professional locksmith is able to solve the issue within one hour of arriving at your property. Based on your requirements, they can replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to inform you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders which give you an extra layer of protection from burglars. It's a small price to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that deteriorate with age and use, so it's no surprise that they sometimes break. If yours breaks it may be difficult to identify the cause of the problem and make sure that you repair it correctly.
Fixing the broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal locking mechanism or latch will increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. It could be costly to repair or replace your handle incorrectly and it could also harm the frame and lock of your door.
With the window in the open position, loosen the screw that holds the handle by using the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, usually concealed by a screw cap to enhance the appearance. Be careful not to lose any of the internal components inside the handle, like the levers or plates on the opposite side of the spindle. Keep double glazing repair Colchester in the same arrangement so that it is easier to replace them if needed.
Then, rotate the handle so it's at 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw on the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle using a second screwdriver. Once this is loose, you should be able to pull the handle off and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or at hardware stores). Screw it in the frame. Be cautious not to overtighten as this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It should work smoothly and you'll be able to open your window after a few times.
While you're working on the handle, be sure to make sure your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they're not closing properly cause damp and draughts inside your home, as in addition to compromising the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges on the window frames to ensure they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more typical 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 locking device within the frame of the window. The handle is attached to a central rod which activates cams with a mushroom shape that secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open after the handle is turned, it is likely the spindle has been damaged. This could be a frustrating issue.
Luckily there are steps that can be taken to fix this problem. A good locksmith will be able to quickly and efficiently repair this issue. A reputable locksmith will be able to disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to remove the wheel part where the spindle is located. This is done without damage to the handle or window frame.
After the wheel has been removed, the technician can examine the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle, and then examining each component part, noting any wear or damage. The process is done in a clean room by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This assists in removing any dirt or debris that could be hindering its normal operation. After this, the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle the dowel can be used that is comparable in size to the original. The technician will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle has a precise fit with the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it might need to be replaced entirely. Home centres sell generic substitutes but if the window design is unique, you will require contacting a cabinet maker or woodworker who can make the exact component. After the spindle is installed, it can be attached to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle to the screws that are already in the frame. Once the new handle is in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.