Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism become faulty? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't aligned properly or are hard to use.

It's important that your double-glazed doors function smoothly, or else you'll be wasting energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at an affordable cost.

Snapped Key

When a key snaps off within a lock, it could be incredibly frustrating. It could also be a security problem in that it can expose you to burglars if your door does not lock. Fortunately, there are simple fixes you can attempt to fix the problem and get your door functioning correctly.

Keep calm. If you panic and begin doing a lot of fumbling around you could end up pushing the damaged 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 help the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any pieces stuck that might be hindering the flow. If you have a piece of the key stuck out then grab it using a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the damaged piece of the key deeper into the keyway.

Some paperclips have grooved edges that could be used to extract hooks and jigsaw blades are also suitable for this function. If you don't happen to have any of these, you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grasp and pull out the remaining part of the broken key.

If you are unable to get the broken piece of the key out, try using a lock de-icer. It's available at most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present within the lock.

If none of these solutions seem to work, it may be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix issues such as broken handles or snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure 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 call us to discuss your needs.

Broken Cylinder

A broken cylinder is an immediate security risk. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder in order to fix it. This can be done using a hammer or other tool. The best method is to make use of a wire or a long match. Then, position the match's end or wire in the keyway. The locksmith can strike the lock and break it open. This is far better than using a hammer, which could damage the lock.

Overheating is the most common cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the cylinder head and block are made from different metals such as cast-iron and aluminum. When different metals are heated and cool at different rates, it can create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, thus leading to cracks.

Corrosion is a different cause of cracks in the cylinder. If the cylinder head as well as the cylinder block aren't properly maintained, this can cause corrosion or rust that could cause them to expand at a more than they ought to. As time passes, this may also lead to cracks.

If your uPVC window lock or door is brittle or requires a lot of pressure to turn, this can be the result of several things. This issue could result from a defective locking mechanism, or misalignment and also a worn out handle.

Fortunately, this is an easy and cost-effective fix for the majority of homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith will typically be able solve this issue within a matter of hours of arriving at your property. They can fix 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 options for your home. They may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that provide an additional security layer from burglars. This is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are secure.

Broken Handle

Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that deteriorate as time passes and use, so it's no surprise that they can break. If yours is damaged it may be difficult to determine the source of the issue and make sure you fix it correctly.

The issue could be with the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing your broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you to stop the draughts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing the handle could be expensive and could harm the door's frame as well as lock and frame, so it's worth spending the time to do it correctly.

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 reasons. You should not lose any internal components of the handle like the plates and levers on either side. Ideally, keep them in the same order so that you can replace them again if needed.

Then, with a second screwdriver loosen the screw that connects the handle to the spindle at the back. Once the screw is loose, you should be in a position to pull the handle away and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, making sure it's the same length (you can find them online or at hardware stores). Screw it in the correct position. Do not tighten the screw too much as this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.

Make sure the new handle is correctly installed, then close and test the handle. It should work smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows once more.

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

Broken Spindle

It is more likely for the spindle to break than the handle. This is especially frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle that is a lock mechanism that is located in the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod which activates locks that are shaped like mushrooms and lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open after the handle has been turned, it is most likely the spindle has been damaged. This could be a problem that is frustrating.

There are ways to fix this issue. A reputable locksmith can quickly and effectively fix this issue. They will be able to disassemble the window handle by using a tool that can remove the wheel part of the mechanism, where the spindle is. This is done without damaging the handle or causing any other damage to the window frame.

Once the wheel is removed the technician can then 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. The process is carried out in a clean room by highly skilled technicians.

The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any debris or dirt that might be obstructing its normal function. The spindle can be replaced or repaired. If the technician is replacing the spindle, it is possible to use a dowel that is comparable in size to the original. Then, he will drill matching holes into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.

If the damaged spindle cannot be repaired, it could require replacement completely. Home centres sell generic replacements, but if the design of your window is unique then it will be necessary to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can replicate the exact component for you. After the spindle is installed, it is attached to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle to the existing screws in the frame. Once the new handle is installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.