double Glazing (www.Repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk) Door Lock Repairs

Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism become faulty? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned properly or are difficult to operate.

It is essential that your double glazed doors function smoothly, or else you will lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at an affordable price.

Snapped Key

When a key snaps off inside a lock, it can be extremely annoying. It could also be a security problem in that it can make you vulnerable to burglars if your door does not lock. There are a few quick fixes you can make to fix the problem and make your door work again.

First, remember to stay calm. If you panic and begin playing around with your keys, you might just end up pushing the broken piece of the key even further into the lock, thereby making the situation even more difficult.

Then, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any stuck pieces that might be hindering the flow. If you're lucky enough to have a bit of the key that is visible, you can make use of a paperclip or other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and pull it out. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the damaged key further into the keyway.

Some paperclips come with grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you don't have any of them handy, you can make use of needle-nose pliers to bend them and create hooks. Also, a pair tweezers is a good way to grasp and pull out the last piece of the key that was broken.

If you're unable to pull the broken piece of the key out, try using a lock de-icer. This is usually found in most hardware stores. It is used to freeze any water or ice that could be inside the lock.

If none of these tricks are working then it's probably the time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly resolve issues with uPVC door locks and mechanisms such as snapped keys and broken handles. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are easier to operate. Request a repair for your double glazing via our website, or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.

Broken Cylinder

A broken cylinder is an immediate security risk. Luckily, it's an easy repair for a professional locksmith to complete. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder to repair it. This can be accomplished with the hammer or other tool. However, the best method is to employ a wire or long match. Then, position the end of the match or wire in the keyway. The locksmith will hit the lock to break it open. This is better than using a hammer, which can cause damage to the lock.

Overheating is the most common reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can occur when the block and the cylinder head are made of different metals such as cast-iron and aluminium. When the different metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it may create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.

Another possible cause for cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained in a timely manner they could corrosion or rust, which can cause them to expand more than anticipated. As time passes, this may also lead to cracks.

If your upvc repairs window or door lock is stiff and requires a lot of pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety of reasons. This can be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment as well as a worn-out handle.

This is a straightforward and cost-effective fix that a majority of double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith can usually fix this problem within one hour of arriving at your property. Depending on the needs of your home they can change the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to high-security 3 Star TS007 euro cylinders that will add an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small amount to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secured.

Broken Handle

Window handle locks are complex mechanisms that become less effective as time passes and use, so it's not a surprise that they can break. If yours fails, it can be difficult to determine the source of the issue. Make sure you fix it properly.

Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's an internal latch or the locking mechanism, will improve the security of your uPVC door and prevent draughts. It can be expensive to replace or repair your handle incorrectly and 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 with 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 careful not to lose any of the internal components inside the handle, like the plates or levers that are on the opposite side of the spindle. Ideally, keep them in the same order so you can replace them if needed.

Then, double glazing using an additional screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle to the spindle at the back. Once the screw is removed, you should be capable of pulling the handle away and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can find them online or in hardware stores). Securely screw it into the correct position. Do not overtighten the screw as this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.

Close the handle and test it. It should operate smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.

Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is shut properly while you're working with the handle. If they aren't closing correctly, you could encounter damp or draughts in your home. You could also compromise the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they shut correctly.

Broken Spindle

It is quite common that the spindle in the handle breaks, rather than the handle itself. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle to operate a locking device in the window frame. The handle is connected to a central rod which triggers a set of cams that resemble mushrooms, which lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open after the handle is turned, it is most likely the spindle is damaged. This could be a frustrating problem.

Luckily there are ways to remedy this situation. A good locksmith will be able to quickly and efficiently repair this issue. A reputable locksmith will be able to disassemble the window's handle using a tool that removes the wheel portion where the spindle is located. This can be done with no damage to the handle or the window frame.

After removing the wheel, the technician can inspect the spindle to determine the cause of the break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its individual parts and carefully recording their general condition, as well as any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians working in a clean environment.

The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will help remove any dirt or other debris that may be obstructing it from operating normally. The spindle may 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 drill matching holes into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.

If the damaged spindle cannot be repaired, it might require replacement completely. Home centers can sell generic replacements, but if your window design is unusual, you will need to contact a cabinet maker or woodworker who can recreate the exact piece. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be fitted to the handle by lining up the screw holes in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the handle is set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.