Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism broken? Perhaps the door or window handles don't meet up properly or are difficult to use.
You'll be wasting energy if your double-glazed doors don't work properly. This also increases 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 gets stuck into a lock. It could also be a security issue in that it can expose you to burglars if your door is not locked. Fortunately, there are some simple fixes you can try to resolve the issue and get your door operating properly again.
Be sure to remain calm. If you panic and begin poking around wildly you could end up pushing the damaged piece of the key deeper into the lock, which could make the situation worse.
Then, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break up any stuck pieces that could be hindering the flow. If you're fortunate enough to have a bit of the key hanging out, you can make use of a paperclip or other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and then pull it out. Both of these methods work, but be careful not to push the broken piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you do not have any of these handy, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. Also, a pair tweezers is a good way to grip and remove the remaining part of the broken key.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of key out, you can 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 consult a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems like broken handles or broken keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to make them more user-friendly. You can request an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or call us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be an extremely risky security issue. A professional locksmith can easily fix the cylinder. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder in order to fix it. This can be done using a hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to employ a wire or long match. The match or wire's end close to the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock in order to crack it. This is much safer than using a heavy hammer, which could cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the main reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the block and the cylinder head are made from different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. When the various metals are heated and cool at different rates, it may create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, thus leading to cracks.
Another possible cause of cylinder cracks is corrosion. When the cylinder head and the block of the cylinder are not properly maintained, this can lead to rusting or corrosion, which may cause them to expand at more than they should. This could lead to cracks as time passes.
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 faulty locking mechanism, misalignment or an old handle are the most common causes of this issue.
Fortunately, window repairs Tottenham is an easy and affordable fix for the majority of homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith is able to solve this issue within an hour of arriving at the property. Depending on your needs they will be able to replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to advise you of the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star TS007 euro cylinders that will provide an extra layer of protection against burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks could break. They have complex mechanisms that wear out over time. It isn't easy to determine the cause of a broken window handle lock and fix it correctly.
Fixing your broken handle, whether it's an internal locking mechanism or latch, will improve the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. It is costly to repair or replace your handle incorrectly and it could also harm the frame and lock of your door.
Screwdriver Open the window, loosen the screw holding the handle. This should be located on the inside face of the back plate, and is normally covered by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. Be sure to not damage any of the internal parts within the handle, like the plates or levers that are on either side of the spindle. Ideally, keep them in the same order so that you can replace them again if needed.
Next, turn the handle until it's 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle that holds it to the internal spindle using another screwdriver. Once this is released, you'll be in a position to pull the handle away and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can purchase them online or at hardware stores). Screw it in the frame. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. It should work smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows once again.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're using 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 able to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure 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 common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle to operate an electronic locking mechanism within the frame of the window. The handle is attached to a rod in the centre that in turn activates cams that look like mushrooms, they locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open after the handle has been turned, it is likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a problem that is frustrating.
Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to rectify this issue. A reputable locksmith will be able to quickly and efficiently repair this issue. A reputable locksmith will be able disassemble the window's handle using a tool to take out the wheel portion in which the spindle is. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician will inspect the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its constituent components and carefully observing their general condition, as well as any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This process is usually performed by technicians in an environment that is clean.
Next, clean the damaged spindle. This will help get rid of any debris or dirt that might be preventing it from operating normally. After this the spindle is cleaned, it 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 make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle is perfectly matched with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it could be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centers can sell generic replacements but if the window style is rare, you will have to speak with an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can replicate the exact piece. Once the new spindle is in place it can be positioned to the handle by line up the screw holes on the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the handle is securely set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.