Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned properly or are difficult to operate.
You'll be wasting energy when your double-glazed doors do not work properly. This increases the likelihood of burglaries. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at a reasonable price.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off within the lock, it can be incredibly difficult. It also poses an issue for security, since the door may not be locked and could leave you open to intrusion. There are a couple of quick fixes you can try to repair the issue and make your door work again.
Keep calm. If you panic and start playing around with your keys you could end up pushing the broken piece of the key deeper into the lock, thereby making the situation much worse.
Next, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break off any pieces stuck. If you're fortunate enough to have a bit of the key that is hanging out, you can make use of a paperclip or other thin metal object to grab it and pull it out. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the broken key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as a hook extractor and Jigsaw blades can also be used for this purpose. If you don't have one of these tools, you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, you can use a pair tweezers to grab and remove the remaining pieces of broken keys.
If you can't get the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It's available in many hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present within the lock.
If none of these strategies are working then it's probably the time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks such as snapped keys and broken handles. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are more easy to use. You can schedule an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or contact us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder poses a serious security threat. A locksmith professional can repair the cylinder. To fix the cylinder locksmiths will need to tap it. They can do this with the hammer or any other tool, but the most efficient way is to make use of an extended match or piece of wire. Then, put the end of the match or wire near the keyway. After that, the locksmith will strike the lock to crack it open. This is superior to using a hammer, which can harm the lock.
The most frequent cause of cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can occur when the block and cylinder head are made of different metals like cast-iron and aluminium. Different metals will heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand faster than the rest of the cylinder.
Another possible cause for cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the cylinder head and the cylinder block aren't properly maintained, it can lead to rusting or corrosion, which may cause them to expand at greater rates than they ought to. This could lead to cracks in the future.
If double glazing repair near me or door lock is brittle and requires more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety reasons. This issue could result from a defective locking mechanism or misalignment, and also a worn out handle.
Fortunately it is a simple and cost-effective fix for the majority of double glazing owners. A professional locksmith is able to solve this issue within an hour of arriving at the home. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and replace the gearboxes, depending on your specific needs. A professional locksmith can always advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which offer an additional layer of protection from burglars. It's a small price to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that deteriorate as time passes and use, so it's no surprise they occasionally break. If yours is damaged it's difficult to identify the cause of the problem and make sure you fix it correctly.
Fixing the broken handle, whether it's the internal latch or locking mechanism will increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. It could be costly to replace or repair your handle if it is not done correctly and could also harm the frame and lock of your door.
With the window in the open position then loosen the screw holding the handle using the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, which is usually concealed by an eye-catching cap to conceal it to enhance the appearance. It is not recommended to lose any internal components of the handle such as the plates and levers on either side. Keep them in the same order so that it is simpler to replace them in the event of a need.
Then, using a second screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle to the spindle in the back. Once the screw is free, you can take the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace this with a new one, ensuring it's the same size as the previous one (you will typically find them on the internet or in hardware stores) and securely screw it into the correct position. Be careful not to overtighten because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. It should operate smoothly, and you will be able to open your window once again.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to make sure your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they're not closing properly, you could experience damp or draughts in your home. It could also affect the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of the frames of your windows to ensure that they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle inside a handle breaks rather than the handle itself. This is most frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle which operates a locking mechanism in the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a rod in the centre that in turn activates mushroom-like locking cams, these lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned, it's likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are solutions to this problem. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and efficiently fix this problem. They can take apart the window handle using a tool that can remove the wheel part of the mechanism where the spindle goes. This is done without damaging the handle or causing other damage to the frame of the window.
After removing the wheel the technician can inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its individual parts and carefully recording their general condition as well as any particular areas of wear or damage. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians working in a clean and safe environment.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will help get rid of any dirt or other debris that may be obstructing it from operating normally. The spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, it is possible to use a dowel that is comparable in size to the original. The technician will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it might require replacement. Home centres sell generic replacements but If the style of your window is rare then it will be necessary to contact a wood worker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact part for you. Once the spindle has been installed, it can be attached to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle to the existing screws in the frame. Once the new handle is seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.