Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned properly or are difficult to operate.
You'll lose energy when your double-glazed doors do not perform as they should. This increases the likelihood of burglaries. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be quite frustrating when a key gets stuck inside the lock. This can also be a security problem because it could make you vulnerable to an intruder if the door is not locked. There are a few easy fixes you can try to fix the problem and get your door working again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the broken key further into the lock.
Then spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break off any pieces that are stuck. If you're lucky enough to have a small piece of the key left visible and you want to remove it, make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and then pull it out. Both of these methods work, but be very careful not to push the damaged piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used to extract hooks, and some Jigsaw blades also work for this function. If you don't have one of these tools, you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and pull out the remaining part of the broken key.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of the key out, try using a lock de-icer. It's available at most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present inside the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it could be time to consult a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can fix problems such as broken handles or snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. You can book an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or contact us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose a major security risk. A professional locksmith is able to repair the cylinder. To fix the cylinder, a locksmith will need to tap it. They can do this with an hammer or another tool, but the most efficient method is to make use of a long match or a piece of wire. Position the match or the wire end near the keyway. The locksmith will then hit the lock to crack it. This is much safer than using a hammer, which could cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the primary reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can occur when the block and the cylinder head are made from different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminium. Different metals will be heated and cool at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest.
Another possible cause of cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained in a timely manner they could be corroded or rust and cause them to expand more than they would normally. As time passes, this may cause cracks.
If your uPVC window lock or door is stiff or requires a lot of pressure to turn, it can be caused by a number of things. This issue could be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment, as well as a worn-out handle.
It is a quick and inexpensive fix that most double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith can usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at your home. Depending on the needs of your home they will be able to replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that offer an additional layer of protection against burglars. It's a small price to pay for the security that comes from knowing that your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks could break. They have intricate mechanisms that become less effective over time. If yours is damaged, it can be difficult to pinpoint the cause of the problem and make sure you fix it correctly.
Fixing window repair Orpington broken handle, whether it's the internal locking mechanism or latch, will improve the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. It can be expensive to replace or repair the handle in a way that isn't done correctly. It could also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window in the open position, loosen the screw holding the handle using the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, usually hidden by an eye-catching cap to conceal it to enhance the appearance. Be sure not to lose any of the internal components inside the handle, for example the levers or plates on the opposite side of the spindle. Keep them in the same order so that it is easier to replace if necessary.
Then, with an additional screwdriver take the screw off that holds the handle to the spindle in the back. Once the screw is released, you'll be able 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 buy them on the internet or at hardware stores). Securely screw it into the frame. Do not overtighten the screw as this can harm the handle as well as the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It should operate smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows once more.
Make sure to check that your uPVC window is closing properly while you're working with the handle. If they're not then you may experience draughts and damp in your home as and also affecting the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure that they shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more common for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is most common in uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle to operate a locking device in the window frame. The handle is attached to a centre rod that triggers a set of cams that resemble mushrooms, which lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned, it is most likely the spindle has been damaged. This can be a problem that is frustrating.
Fortunately, there are options to fix this problem. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and effectively fix the issue. They will be able to disassemble the window handle by using a tool that removes the wheel portion of the mechanism, where the spindle goes. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician can examine the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining every component, observing any damage or excessive wear. This process is usually carried out by technicians in an environment that is clean.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any debris or dirt that might be obstructing its normal functioning. After that, the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If it is replaced, the technician will need an identical dowel size to the original and drill mating holes in both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it could need to be replaced entirely. Home centers can sell generic replacements but if the window design is unique, you will need to contact an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can replicate the exact component. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be positioned to the handle by line up the screw holes in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the handle is securely in place, you can use your uPVC windows.