Are You Making The Most The Use Of Your Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs?
Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism become faulty? Perhaps the window or door handles aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
You'll be wasting energy when your double-glazed doors do not function properly. This can also increase the likelihood of burglaries. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key gets stuck inside the lock. This can also be a security problem, as it may make you vulnerable to burglars if your door does not lock. There are fortunately quick fixes that you can attempt to fix the problem and get your door working properly again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Spray WD-40 or another penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will allow the broken piece be removed more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break up any pieces stuck that could be blocking the way. If you're fortunate enough to have a little bit of the key sticking out, you can make use of a paperclip or other metal object that is thin to grab it and remove it. Both of these methods work well, however, be careful not to push the broken piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as a hook extractor and Jigsaw blades also work for this function. If you do not have any of these handy, you can make use of needle-nose pliers to bend them and create hooks. Finally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and pull out the last part of the broken key.
If you can't get the broken piece of the key out, try using a lock de-icer. It's available in many hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture that may be present inside the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it might be time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems like broken handles and snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are simpler to use. You can schedule repairs to your double-glazing online or call us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be a major security risk. It's fortunately a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. A locksmith must tap the cylinder in order to repair it. They can do this with the hammer or any other tool, but the most efficient way is to make use of a long match or piece of wire. Place the match or wire's end in the keyway. After that, the locksmith will hit the lock to break it open. This is better than using a hammer, which can cause damage to the lock.
The most common cause of cylinder head cracks is overheating. This can happen when the block and the cylinder head are made of various metals, such as cast-iron or aluminium. When different metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it may create hotspots locally that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Corrosion can be a reason for cylinder fractures. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained in a timely manner, they can corrosion or rust, which can cause them to expand more than they would normally. This can lead to cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC window or door lock is rigid and requires more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety reasons. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment or a worn handle are common causes of this issue.
It is a quick and inexpensive fix that most homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith can usually solve this issue within an hour of arriving at the property. They can replace the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, depending on the specific requirements of your home. A professional locksmith will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which give you an extra security layer from burglars. It is a small cost to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that become less effective with time and usage, so it's no surprise they occasionally break. If yours is damaged it may be difficult to identify the cause of the problem and make sure you fix it correctly.
Whether the problem is in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you to stop the draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be very expensive and can cause damage to the door's frame and lock, so it's worth taking the time to do it correctly.
With the window open then loosen the screw that holds the handle with a screwdriver. This should be located on the inside of the back plate, and is normally concealed by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. It is not recommended to lose any internal components of the handle, such as the plates and levers on either side. Keep them in the same order so that it is simpler to replace them in the event of a need.
Then, turn 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 removed, you should be capable of pulling the handle away and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can find them online or at hardware stores). Screw it in the frame. Be careful not to tighten too much as this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Check that the new handle is fitted Close the window and test the handle. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able unlock your window.
Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly while you're working with the handle. If they don't close correctly, you could encounter draughts or damp in your home. It could also affect the energy efficiency of your home. double glazing repair is a local window company that can alter the hinges of the frames of your windows to ensure they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more common for the spindle to break than the handle. This is most typical in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These types of windows require a handle that acts as a locking mechanism within the frame of the window. The handle is attached a central rod that triggers the cams with a mushroom shape that lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle has been turned, it's likely the spindle has been damaged. This could be a problem that is frustrating.
Fortunately there are ways to remedy this situation. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. A reputable locksmith will be able disassemble the window's handle using a tool to take out the wheel portion where the spindle is located. This can be done without causing any damage to the handle or causing other damage to the window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician can examine the spindle and determine the reason for its break. This involves disassembling the spindle, and then examining each component part, noting any damage or excessive wear. This process is typically done in a clean room by highly skilled technicians.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or other debris that may be obstructing it from operating normally. After this the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, the dowel can be used that is similar in size to the original. The technician will then drill matching holes into both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle has an exact fit with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers sell generic replacements but If the style of your window is unusual then you will need to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact model for you. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be fitted to the handle by lining up the holes for screws in the handle and the frame existing screws. Once the new handle is in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.