Indisputable Proof That You Need Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC window or door mechanism not working properly? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't able to connect properly or are hard to use.
You'll lose energy if your double-glazed doors don't perform as they should. This also increases the risk of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to repair your door lock at a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks within a lock, it could be incredibly annoying. It's also potentially a security risk since the door might not lock and could leave you vulnerable to intruders. Fortunately, there are simple fixes you can try to resolve the issue and get your door operating correctly.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic and start doing a lot of fumbling around you could end up pushing the damaged piece of the key further into the lock, thereby making the situation even more difficult.
Spray WD-40, or another penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will allow the broken piece emerge more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break up any stuck pieces that could be blocking the way. If you have a part of the key still sticking out and is not being removed, grab it with a paperclip or another thin metal object and pull it. Both of these methods work well, but be cautious not to push the damaged piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you don't happen to have one of these tools then you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. You can also make use of a pair of tweezers to grasp and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
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 is used to freeze any moisture that may be present within the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly fix problems such as broken handles and snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. You can book an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or contact us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose a serious security threat. A professional locksmith is able to fix the cylinder. To fix the cylinder, a locksmith will need to tap it. They can do this using the hammer or any other tool, but the most efficient way is to employ an extended match or piece of wire. Place double glazing repair near me or wire end near the keyway. The locksmith can then hit the lock to crack it. This is much better than using a hammer, which could harm the lock.
Overheating is the main reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the block and the cylinder head are made from different metals like cast-iron and aluminium. Different metals will be heated and cool at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand quicker than the rest of the cylinder.
Another reason that could cause cylinder cracks is corrosion. When the cylinder head and cylinder block are not maintained properly, this could lead to rusting or corrosion that could cause them to expand at more than they ought to. This can cause cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC door or window lock is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, this could be due to many things. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment, or an old handle are the most common reasons for this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and cost-effective fix for the majority of homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith can usually fix this problem within one hour of arriving at the home. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles and 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 may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders which offer an additional security layer from burglars. This is a small price to pay for the security that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks could break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms that become less effective over time. If yours is damaged, it can be difficult to pinpoint the cause of the issue. Make sure that you repair it correctly.
Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's the internal locking mechanism or latch, will improve the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be expensive and could damage the door's frame and lock and frame, so it's worth spending some time to do it right.
With the window open and the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle with a screwdriver. It should be located on the inside face of the back plate, normally concealed by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. It is important to not be able to replace any internal parts of the handle such as the levers and plates on either side. Ideally, keep them in the same order so that you can re-install them if needed.
Next, turn the handle to make it 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is released, you'll be in a position to pull the handle away and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can find them online or in hardware stores). Securely screw it in the frame. Be cautious not to overtighten as this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It should work smoothly and you'll be able open your window after a few times.
Make sure to check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're working with the handle. If they don't close properly, you may experience damp or draughts in your home. It could also affect the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames so they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle in the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is most common 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 to a central rod which activates mushroom-shaped locking cams that secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned, it is likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are ways to fix this problem. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and efficiently fix this problem. They will be able to disassemble the window handle by using a tool that can remove the wheel component of the mechanism, where the spindle goes. This is done without damage to the handle or window frame.
Once the wheel has been removed, the technician will examine the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting each component part, noting any wear or damage. This procedure is usually carried out in a clean room by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or other debris that may be obstructing it from working normally. After this the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If it is replaced, the technician can take the dowel that is similar in size to the original and drill mating holes into both parts of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle is perfectly matched with the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired it may need to be replaced entirely. Home centres sell generic replacements, but if the design of your window is unique then it will be necessary to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can replicate the exact part for you. Once the spindle has been installed, it is attached to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle to the screws already in the frame. Once the new handle is in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.