Then You've Found Your Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs ... Now What?
Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Is your uPVC door or window mechanism faulty? Maybe double glazing repairs on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
It's important that your double-glazed doors function smoothly, or else you will lose energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to fix your door lock at reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
It can be frustrating when a key is snapped inside the lock. It could also be a security issue because it could leave you vulnerable 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 correctly.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Then spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to help the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break up any stuck pieces that might be hindering the flow. If you happen to have a small piece of the key left sticking out it, you can make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object that is thin to grab it and then pull it out. Both methods work, but be cautious not to push the broken piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that could be used as a hook extractor and some Jigsaw blades can also be used for this function. If you do not have any of these handy, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend and create a hook. Finally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grasp and remove the remaining part of the broken key.
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 present within the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it may be time to contact a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can solve problems like broken handles or broken keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to make them more user-friendly. You can schedule repairs to your double-glazing online or contact us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose an immediate security risk. A professional locksmith can easily 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 make use of a long match or piece of wire. Then, position the end of the match or wire near the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock in order to crack it. This is better than using a hammer that could damage the lock.
Overheating is the primary reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the cylinder block and cylinder head are made from different metals, such as cast iron and aluminium. When 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 cause of fractures in cylinders. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained correctly they may corrosion or rust, which can cause them to expand more than anticipated. This could lead to cracks over time.
If your uPVC window or door lock is rigid and requires a lot more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of reasons. A malfunctioning locking mechanism, misalignment, or the wear of the handle are typical reasons for this issue.
It is a quick and affordable fix that the majority of homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith will usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at the home. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and change the gearboxes based on your specific needs. A locksmith with experience will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that provide an additional layer of protection against burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks can break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms that wear out over time. If yours breaks, it can be difficult to identify the cause of the problem and make sure you fix it properly.
Fixing the broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal locking mechanism or latch can increase the security of your uPVC door and prevent draughts. It can be expensive to repair or replace your handle if it is not done correctly and can also harm the frame and lock of your door.
Screwdriver Open the window and the screw loose, loosen the handle. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate. It is typically hidden by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic purposes. It is important to not lose any internal parts of the handle, such as the levers and plates on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same order so that you can replace them when needed.
Then, turn the handle until it's 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle with another screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, pull the handle out and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can find them online or at hardware stores). Screw it in place. Don't over tighten the screw as this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Check that the new handle is installed Close the window and test the handle. It should function smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows once more.
Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is closing properly while you're working with the handle. If they aren't closing properly, you may experience damp or draughts inside your home. Also, you could be compromising the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, such as 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 within the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is most frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These kinds 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 is then activated by a series of mushroom-like locking cams, these locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle has been turned, it's likely the spindle is broken. This could be a problem that is frustrating.
Luckily there are steps that can be taken to fix this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. They will be able to remove the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel part of the mechanism where the spindle goes. This can be done without damage to the handle or window frame.
After the wheel has been removed, the technician will inspect the spindle and determine what has caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its constituent parts and carefully recording their general condition as well as any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This process is typically carried out in a clean room by highly skilled technicians.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will help get rid of any dirt or debris which may be obstructing it from functioning normally. Following 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 spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle cannot be repaired it may require replacement completely. Home centers sell generic replacements however if your window design is unique, you will need to contact an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can replicate the exact piece. Once the spindle has been installed, it is attached to the handle. 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.