Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Are your uPVC window or door mechanism not working properly? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't able to connect correctly or are difficult to use.
It is crucial that your double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you'll be wasting energy and increase the chances of burglary. double glazing repairs can repair your door lock for an affordable price.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off within the lock, it can be incredibly frustrating. It could also be a security issue in that it can make you vulnerable to burglars if your door is not locked. There are fortunately quick fixes you can use to solve the issue and get your door functioning correctly.
Be calm. If you panic and start doing a lot of fumbling around you may 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 help the broken piece to emerge more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break off any pieces stuck. If you have a part of the key stuck out, grab it with a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both of these methods work, but be very careful not to push the damaged piece of the key deeper into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that could serve to extract hooks and jigsaw blades are also suitable for this function. If you do not have any of these handy, you can make use of needle-nose pliers that bend to create hooks. You can also use a pair tweezers to grasp and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of the key out, try using a lock de-icer. It is available in most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present within the lock.
If none of these strategies seem to be helping you, it's time to call in a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can fix problems such as broken handles or snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are simpler to use. You can request repairs to your double-glazing online or contact us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder poses an extremely risky security issue. Luckily, it's an easy repair for professional locksmiths to complete. To fix the cylinder, a locksmith will need to tap it. This can be accomplished with a hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to employ a wire or long match. Then, place the match's end or wire in the keyway. After this, the locksmith will strike the lock to crack it open. This is far better than using a hammer that could cause damage to the lock.
The most frequent cause for cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can happen when the cylinder block and head are made of various metals, including cast iron and aluminum. Different metals will be heated and cool at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand quicker than the rest of the cylinder.
Another reason that could cause cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the cylinder head as well as the block of the cylinder are not properly maintained, it can cause corrosion or rust, which may cause them to expand at a a higher rate than they ought to. This could lead to cracks in the future.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff or requires a lot of pressure to turn, it can be caused by several things. This can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment, as well as a worn-out handle.
It is a quick and inexpensive fix that most double glazing owners can do. A professional locksmith will usually solve this issue within an hour of arriving at your property. Depending on your needs, they can replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to inform you of the most cost-effective option for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to 3 Star security Euro cylinders, TS007, that will provide an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small price to get the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that become less effective with time and use, so it's not a surprise that they can break. If yours breaks it may be difficult to determine the source of the issue and make sure you fix it properly.
Fixing your broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal latch or the locking mechanism, will improve 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 can also harm the frame and lock of your door.
Screwdriver When the window is open and the screw loose, loosen the handle. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate. It is typically hidden by a screw cap for aesthetic purposes. It is not recommended to lose any internal components of the handle like the levers and plates on either side. Ideally, keep them in the same order so that you can replace them again when needed.
Next, turn the handle until it's 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw on the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle with a second screwdriver. Once this is removed, you should be able to pull the handle off and take off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, ensuring it's the same length as the previous one (you can typically find these on the internet or at hardware stores) and securely screw it in the correct position. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Make sure the new handle is installed after which you can close and test the handle. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able open your window again.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're working with the handle. If they don't close properly, you may experience draughts or damp in your home. Also, you could be compromising the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be able to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they can shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is usually the case that the spindle inside the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These types of windows require a handle which is a lock mechanism that is located in the window frame. The handle is connected to a central rod that activates a series of cams with a mushroom shape that lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned it is likely that the spindle has broken, this can be a very frustrating issue.
There are solutions to this issue. A good locksmith will be able to quickly and efficiently repair this problem. They can remove the window handle using a tool that can remove the wheel part of the mechanism where the spindle is. This can be done with no damage to the handle or window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician can examine the spindle and determine the cause of the break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its individual parts and meticulously noting their general condition, as well as any particular areas of wear or damage. This process is usually carried out by technicians in a clean and safe environment.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will help remove any debris or dirt that could be hindering it from functioning normally. The spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle he can use a dowel that is comparable in size to the original. The technician will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.
If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it might require replacement. Home centers sell generic replacements. However, If the style of your window is unique then it will be necessary to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact model for you. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be attached to the handle by lining up the screw holes in the handle and the frame existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.