Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Are your uPVC window or door mechanism not working properly? Maybe the window or door handles don't meet up properly or are hard to use.

It's important that the double glazed doors function smoothly, or else you will lose energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at an affordable price.

Snapped Key

It can be frustrating when a key snaps inside a lock. It could also be a security risk in that it can expose you to burglars if your door is not locked. There are a few easy solutions you can use to resolve the issue and get your door working again.

First, remember to stay calm. If you panic and begin doing a lot of fumbling around you may end up pushing the broken piece of the key even further into the lock, which could make the situation worse.

Spray WD-40, or another penetrating oil, into the lock. This will help the broken piece be removed more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break pieces that might be hindering the flow. If you're lucky enough to have a little bit of the key sticking out and you want to remove it, make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object that is thin to grab it and pull it out. Both of these methods work well, however, be cautious not to push the damaged piece of the key even further into the keyway.

Some paperclips come with grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades can also work well for this. If you don't have any of these available, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend and create hooks. Also, a pair tweezers is a good way to grip and remove the remaining bit of the broken key.

If you cannot remove the broken piece of key then you can use a lock deicer. It is available in most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present inside the lock.

If none of these methods are working then it's probably time to call in locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly fix issues such as broken handles or snapped keys with uPVC locks and Double glazing door mechanisms. They can also alter your Double Glazing - https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/dunstable-windowrepair, door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. Book a double glazing repair via our website or give us a phone call to discuss your requirements.

Broken Cylinder

A damaged cylinder poses a serious security threat. It's fortunately a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder to repair it. They can do this with a hammer or other tool, but the best way is to make use of an extended match or piece of wire. Then, put the match's tip or double glazing wire close to the keyway. After this, the locksmith can hit the lock to break it open. This is much better than using a heavy hammer, which could cause damage to the lock.

Overheating is the main reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the block and cylinder head are made of various metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. Different metals will heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand quicker than the rest.

Corrosion can be a reason for fractures in cylinders. If the cylinder head as well as the cylinder block aren't properly maintained, this can cause corrosion or rust, which may cause them to expand at more than they ought to. In time, this could also cause cracks.

If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires a lot more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety reasons. A malfunctioning locking mechanism, misalignment, or an old handle are the most common causes of this problem.

Fortunately it is a simple and cost-effective fix for the majority of double glazing owners. A professional locksmith should be able to solve this problem within an hour of arriving at your home. Depending on the needs of your home they can change the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will be able to inform you of the most cost-effective option for your home. They may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which provide an additional layer of protection from burglars. This is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.

Broken Handle

It's not a surprise that window handle locks could break. They have intricate mechanisms which deteriorate over time. If yours is damaged, it can be difficult to determine the source of the issue and make sure that you repair it correctly.

The issue could be in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, repairing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you to stop drafts. It is costly to replace or repair your handle incorrectly and it could also harm the frame and lock of your door.

With the window in the open position and the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle by using the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, usually hidden by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic reasons. It is not recommended to be able to replace any internal parts of the handle, such as the plates and levers on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same place so you can replace them if needed.

Next, turn the handle until it's 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw on the back of the handle that holds it to the internal spindle by using another screwdriver. Once the screw is free, you can remove the handle and remove 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 in place. Be careful not to overtighten as this could damage the handle or the window frame.

Close the handle and test it. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.

While you're working on the handle, don't forget to ensure that your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they're not closing properly, you could experience damp and draughts inside your home as in addition to compromising your home's energy efficiency. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of the window frames to ensure that they shut correctly.

Broken Spindle

It is quite common that the spindle inside a handle breaks rather than the handle itself. This is particularly common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as an locking device within the frame of the window. The handle is attached a central rod that triggers the locks that are shaped like mushrooms and lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open after the handle has been turned, it is most likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a problem that is frustrating.

Luckily, there are ways to fix this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently fix this problem. They can disassemble the window handle by using a tool that removes the wheel portion of the mechanism that is where the spindle goes. This can be done with no damage to the handle or the window frame.

After the wheel has been removed the technician can then inspect the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its individual parts and meticulously noting their general condition as in addition to any specific areas of wear or damage. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians in an environment that is clean.

The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or debris which could be hindering it from working normally. The spindle may be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle the dowel can be used that is the same 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 damaged spindle cannot be repaired it may require replacement. Home centers offer generic replacements. However, if the style of your window is rare then you will need to contact a wood worker or cabinet maker who can make the exact part for you. Once the new spindle is in place it can be fitted to the handle by line up the holes for screws in the handle and the frame existing screws. Once the new handle is seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.