Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
You'll be wasting energy if your double-glazed doors don't perform as they should. This increases the risk of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be quite frustrating when a key is snapped inside the lock. This can also be a security risk in that it can expose you to a burglar if the door does not lock. There are a couple of quick solutions you can use to fix the problem and get your door working again.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic and start poking around wildly you may end up pushing the damaged piece of the key deeper into the lock, thereby making the situation even more difficult.
Then spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to help the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break pieces that might be hindering the flow. If you have a part of the key that's stuck then grab it using the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the damaged key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades can also work well for this. If you don't happen to have any of these you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, you can use a pair of tweezers grab and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of the key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It is available in most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture that may be present inside the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to consult a locksmith. double glazing repair near me can fix issues such as broken handles or snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are simpler to operate. Get a double glazing repair through us online, or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose a major security risk. Luckily, it's an easy repair for a professional locksmith to complete. To repair the cylinder, a locksmith will need to tap it. This can be accomplished with a hammer, or any other tool. The best method is to employ a wire or long match. Place the match or wire's end in the keyway. The locksmith can then hit the lock to crack it. This is much better than using a heavy hammer, which could cause damage to the lock.
The most frequent cause of cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can happen when the cylinder block and head are made of different metals, including cast iron and aluminum. Different metals will heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand quicker than the rest.
Corrosion is a different reason for cracks in the cylinder. If the cylinder head and the block of the cylinder are not properly maintained, it can result in corrosion or rust, which may cause them to expand at more than they should. This can cause cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC window lock or door is stiff or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, this could be due to a number of things. This problem can be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment as well as a worn-out handle.
Fortunately it's a simple and cost-effective fix for the majority of homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith will usually fix this problem within one hour of arriving at the property. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, depending on the specific requirements of your home. A locksmith with experience can always advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that offer an additional layer of protection from burglars. This is a small price to pay for the security that comes from knowing that your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks may break. They have complex mechanisms that wear out over time. If yours breaks it's difficult to identify the cause of the problem and make sure you fix it properly.
Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's an internal latch or the locking mechanism will increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. It can be expensive to repair or replace your handle if it is not done correctly and can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver: With the window open remove the screw that holds the handle. It should be located on the inside face of the back plate, normally concealed by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. You should not lose any internal components of the handle like the plates and levers on either side. Ideally, keep them in the same place so you can replace them again if needed.
Then, with a second screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle to the spindle on the back. Once the screw is loose, you should be in a position to pull the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can purchase them online or at hardware stores). Screw it into the correct position. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It should operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your window after a few times.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to make sure your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they're not then you may experience draughts and damp in your home, as well as compromising the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges on the frames of your windows to ensure that they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more typical for the spindle to break than the handle. This is particularly common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These types of windows require a handle that is a lock mechanism that is located in the window frame. The handle is connected to a rod in the centre that in turn activates mushroom-like locking cams, these secure the frame of the window. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned, it's likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a frustrating issue.
There are ways to fix this problem. A professional locksmith will be able to quickly and efficiently repair this problem. They will be able to take apart the window handle using a tool to remove the wheel portion of the mechanism that is where the spindle is. This can be done without damaging 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 inspecting every component, observing any wear or damage. The process is performed in a clean environment by skilled technicians.
Next, clean the damaged spindle. This will help get rid of any dirt or other debris that might be preventing it from operating normally. The spindle could be replaced or repaired. If it's being replaced, the technician will need 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 new spindle has precisely matched to the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it might require replacement completely. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the window design is unusual, you will need to contact an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can make the exact piece. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be fitted to the handle by line up the screw holes in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the handle is firmly in place, you can use your uPVC windows.