Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't able to connect properly or are difficult to use.
It's important that your double-glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the chance of burglary. double glazing repairs near me will be able to fix your door lock at a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
When a key snaps off in the lock, it can be extremely difficult. This can also be a security issue in that it can make you vulnerable to a burglar if the door does not lock. There are fortunately simple fixes you can try to resolve the issue and get your door working correctly.
Be sure to remain calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Next spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break any pieces that are stuck. If you have a chunk of the key that is still sticking out then grab it using a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work well, but be careful not to push the damaged piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can be used as hook extractors and Jigsaw blades also work for this use. If you don't have any of these then you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Also, a pair tweezers is a good way to grasp and pull out the last part of the broken key.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key then you can use a lock deicer. It's available at most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present within the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it may be time to consult a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems like broken handles and snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are easier to use. You can book an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or call us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder poses a serious security threat. A professional locksmith is able to fix the cylinder. To fix the cylinder, a locksmith will need to tap it. They can do this using a hammer or other tool, but the most efficient way is to employ an extended match or piece of wire. Then, place the end of the match or wire near the keyway. The locksmith can hit the lock to break it open. This is better than using a hammer that could harm the lock.
Overheating is the primary cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the cylinder block and cylinder head are made of different metals, including cast iron and aluminum. Different metals can be heated and cool at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand faster than the rest of the cylinder.
Corrosion is another possible reason for cracks in the cylinder. When the cylinder head and cylinder block are not properly maintained, this can cause corrosion or rust and cause them to expand at a greater rates than they ought to. In time, this could also cause cracks.
If your uPVC door or window lock is stiff or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, this could be due to a number of things. This issue could be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment, or a worn-out handle.
Fortunately, this is an easy and affordable fix for the majority of homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith will usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at the property. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and change the gearboxes, based on the specific requirements of your home. A professional locksmith will be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which provide an additional security layer from burglars. This is a small price to pay for the security that comes from knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that wear out with time and use, so it's not a surprise that they sometimes break. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the cause of the problem and then fix it properly.
Fixing the broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal latch or locking mechanism, will improve the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing your handle can be expensive and could cause damage to the door's frame and lock, so it's worth taking some time to do it right.
With the window open and the window open, loosen the screw that holds the handle with a screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate. It is typically covered by the cap of the screw to enhance the appearance. Be sure not to lose any of the internal parts within the handle, like the plates or levers that are on either side of the spindle. Ideally, keep these in the same place so you can replace them when needed.
Then, with a second screwdriver, loosen the screw that connects the handle to the spindle on the back. Once this is released, you'll be able to pull the handle off 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). Screw it in the correct position. Be careful not to overtighten because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It should operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your windows once again.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they don't, you could experience draughts and damp in your home as well as compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames so they are able to shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle in the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is particularly common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These kinds of windows require a handle that acts as a locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod which in turn activates mushroom-like locking cams, these lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned it is likely that the spindle has been damaged This can be a very frustrating issue.
Luckily, there are steps that can be taken to fix this problem. A reputable locksmith will be able to quickly and efficiently repair this issue. A good locksmith will be able disassemble the window's handle using a tool to remove the wheel portion that houses the spindle. This can be done without causing any damage to the handle or causing any other damage to the window frame.
Once the wheel has been removed, the technician will inspect the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its component parts and carefully recording their general condition, as in addition to any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This procedure is usually carried out in a clean, well-lit room by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any dirt or debris that could be hindering its normal operation. The spindle could be repaired or replaced. If it's being replaced, the technician can take a dowel of a similar size to the original and drill mating holes into both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle cannot be repaired, it could need to be replaced entirely. Home centers can sell generic replacements, but if your window design is unique you'll require contacting an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can replicate the exact piece. Once the new spindle is in place it can be fitted to the handle by line up the screw holes in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the new handle is installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.