Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are your uPVC window or door mechanism broken? Perhaps the window or door handles aren't able to connect properly or are hard to use.
It is essential that the double glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you'll be wasting energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to repair your door lock for a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off in a lock, it could be extremely difficult. It's also potentially an issue for security, since the door may not lock and leave you vulnerable to burglars. There are fortunately quick fixes you can try to resolve the issue and get your door functioning properly once more.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic and start playing around with your keys you could end up pushing the damaged piece of the key further into the lock, making the situation even more difficult.
Spray WD-40 or another penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will assist the broken piece be removed more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break up any stuck pieces that could be hindering the flow. If you're fortunate enough to have a small piece of the key left visible and you want to remove it, use a paperclip or some other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and then pull it out. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the broken key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that could work in a pinch as a hook extractor and some Jigsaw blades also work for this purpose. If you don't have any of them available, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. Additionally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and remove the remaining part of the broken key.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of the key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It is available at all hardware stores, and it works by freezing any moisture or ice that may be inside the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to consult a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix problems such as broken handles or broken keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are simpler to use. Get a double glazing repair via our website, or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be a serious security risk. A professional locksmith is able to fix the cylinder. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder in order to repair it. They can do this using a hammer or other tools, but the most effective method is to employ an extended match or piece of wire. Then, place the end of the match or wire near the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock in order to crack it. This is much better than using a heavy hammer, which could damage the lock.
The most frequent cause for cylinder head cracks is overheating. This can happen when the block and cylinder head are made from different metals such as cast-iron and aluminium. Different metals can be heated and cool at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand faster than the rest.
Another reason that could cause cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained properly they may rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand faster than they would normally. As time passes, this may cause cracks.
If your uPVC door or window lock is brittle or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, it could be due to several things. This problem can be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment or a worn-out handle.
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 property. Based on your requirements they can change the locking mechanism, change the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star TS007 euro cylinders that will provide an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small amount to get the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks could break. They have intricate mechanisms that become less effective over time. It isn't easy to determine the reason for the problem and then fix it properly.
Fixing your broken handle, whether it's the internal locking mechanism or latch will increase the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. It could be costly to replace or repair your handle incorrectly and it can also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window open, loosen the screw that secures the handle with a screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, usually covered by the cap of the screw to enhance the appearance. Be careful not to lose any of the internal components within the handle, for example the levers or plates on either side of here the spindle. Ideally, keep these in the same order so that you can replace them when needed.
Then, with an additional screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle to the spindle at the back. Once the screw is loose, pull the handle out and remove the broken spindle. Replace this with a new one, ensuring it's the same length as the old one (you can usually find these on the internet or in hardware stores) and then securely screw it in the correct position. Do not overtighten the read more screw because this could harm the handle as well as the window frame.
Ensure the new handle is correctly fitted Close the window and test the handle. It should operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your windows once more.
Make sure to check that your uPVC window is shut correctly while you're working with the handle. If they're not here closing properly, you may experience damp or draughts in your home. Also, you could be compromising the energy efficiency of your double glazing companies near me home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure that they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more typical for the spindle to break than the handle. This is particularly common in 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 connected to 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 is turned, it is possible that the spindle has broken and this could be a frustrating problem.
There are ways to fix this issue. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently fix this problem. They can take apart the window handle using a tool to remove the wheel component of the mechanism where the spindle is. 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 will inspect the spindle and identify the reason for its break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining each component, noting any wear or damage. This procedure is usually performed 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 might be obstructing its normal functioning. After this the spindle is cleaned, it can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is double glazing near me replacing the spindle the dowel can be used that is the same size to the original. Then, he will drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it could require replacement completely. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the window style is rare, you will need to contact an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can recreate the exact piece. Once the spindle has been installed, it can be fixed to the handle. The screw holes on the handle with the screws that are already in the frame. Once the handle is seated, you can operate your uPVC windows.