Are You Getting The Most Out Of Your Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs?
Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Perhaps the window or door handles don't meet up properly or are hard to use.
You'll lose energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to work properly. This can also increase the risk of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key snaps into the lock. It can also be a security problem because it could expose you to an intruder if the door is not locked. Fortunately, there are some quick fixes that you can use to solve the problem and get your door working properly once more.
Keep calm. If you panic and start playing around with your keys, you might just end up pushing the broken piece of the key further into the lock, which could make the situation much worse.
Then, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break pieces that might be hindering the flow. If you're fortunate enough to have a little bit of the key left hanging out, you can use a paperclip or some other thin metal object to grab it and pull it out. Both methods work, but be very careful not to push the damaged piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can serve as hook extractors, and some Jigsaw blades can also be used for this purpose. If you don't have any of these handy, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create a hook. Additionally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and remove the remaining piece of the key that was broken.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key, use a lock deicer. It's available in many hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture that may be present within the lock.
If none of these methods appear to be working then it's probably time to call locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly fix problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. You can request repairs to your double-glazing online or call us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose a serious security risk. A professional locksmith is able to repair the cylinder. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder to fix it. They can do this with an hammer or another tool, but the best method is to use a long match or a piece of wire. Then, position the match's tip or wire near the keyway. The locksmith will strike the lock to crack it open. This is more secure than using a hammer that could harm the lock.
Overheating is the most common reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the block and cylinder head are made from different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. When the different metals are heated and cool at different rates, it may cause localised hotspots that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Corrosion is a different reason for cylinder fractures. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained correctly they may be corroded or rust and cause them to expand faster than anticipated. This can cause cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC door or window lock is brittle or requires a lot of pressure to turn, it could be due to several things. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment or a worn handle are common reasons for this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and cost-effective fix for the majority of homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith will typically be able solve the issue within an hour of arriving at your home. Depending on your needs, they can replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience can always advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that give you an extra layer of protection from burglars. It is a small cost to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that become less effective with time and use, so it's no surprise they occasionally break. If yours is damaged it may be difficult to pinpoint the cause of the issue and make sure you fix it correctly.
Fixing the broken handle, whether it's the internal locking mechanism or latch can increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. It could be costly to repair or replace your handle if it is not done correctly and can also damage the frame and lock of your door.
With the window in the open position and the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle using a screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate. It is typically concealed by a screw cap to enhance the appearance. Be careful not to lose any internal components inside the handle, such as the plates or levers that are on either side of the spindle. Ideally, keep them in the same order so you can replace them when needed.
Then, with an additional screwdriver, loosen the screw that connects the handle to the spindle at the back. Once the screw is released, you'll be able to pull the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, ensuring it's the same size as the previous one (you can usually find these online or in hardware stores) and securely screw it into place. Do not overtighten the screw as this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Ensure the new handle is installed Close the window and test the handle. It should operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your windows once more.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is closing properly while you're working with the handle. If they aren't closing correctly, you could encounter draughts or damp in your home. Also, you could be compromising the energy efficiency of your home. double glazing window repairs , such as Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames so they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is quite common that the spindle in the handle breaks, rather than the handle itself. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that operates a locking device in the frame of the window. 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 fails to open when the handle is turned, it is most likely the spindle has been damaged. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are ways to fix this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. They can take apart the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel component of the mechanism where the spindle is. This can be done without damage to the handle or window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician can inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its component parts and carefully recording their general condition, as well as any particular areas of wear or damage. This process is typically done in a clean room by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any dirt or other debris that could be hindering its normal operation. The spindle can be repaired or replaced. If it's being replaced, the technician could use an identical dowel size to the original 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 may be required to replace it completely. Home centers offer generic replacements but if the style of your window is unique then it is necessary to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact model for you. Once the new spindle is in place it can be fitted to the handle by line up the holes for screws in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the handle is securely set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.