Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Is your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Maybe the window or door handles aren't aligned 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 will be able to fix your door lock at a reasonable cost.

Snapped Key

It can be frustrating when a key gets stuck into a lock. It could also be a security risk in that it can expose you to a burglar if the door does not lock. There are a few easy solutions you can use to fix the problem and make your door work again.

Remember to remain calm. If you panic and start playing around with your keys, you might just end up pushing the broken piece of the key further into the lock, which could make the situation even more difficult.

Then, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any stuck pieces that could be hindering the flow. If you have a piece of the key that's still sticking out and is not being removed, grab it with a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods are effective, but you need to 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 and create a hook. You can also use a pair tweezers to grab and pull out the remaining pieces of broken keys.

If you are unable to get the broken piece of the key out, try using a lock de-icer. It is available in most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture that may be present inside the lock.

If none of these solutions work, it could be time to consult a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly resolve issues with uPVC door mechanisms and locks that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms so that they are easier to use. Get a double glazing repair with us online or give us a call to discuss your needs.

Broken Cylinder

A broken cylinder can be a serious security risk. A locksmith professional can fix the cylinder. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. They can do this using the hammer or any other tools, but the most effective way is to employ an extended match or piece of wire. Then, position the match's tip or wire close to the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock to break it. This is much better than using a heavy hammer that can damage the lock.

Overheating is the main reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can happen when the cylinder head and block are made of various metals such as cast-iron and aluminum. When various metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it can create hotspots locally that expand faster than the rest of the head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.

Corrosion is another possible cause of cylinder fractures. If the cylinder head as well as the cylinder block aren't properly maintained, this can cause corrosion or rust and cause them to expand at a a higher rate than they should. As time passes, this may also lead to cracks.

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

Fortunately, this is an easy and cost-effective fix for the majority of double glazing owners. A professional locksmith will typically be able 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, and also change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star euro cylinders TS007 that provide an extra layer of security against burglars. This is a small price to pay for the security that comes from knowing that your uPVC doors are safe.

Broken Handle

Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that wear out as time passes and usage, so it's no surprise that they can break. If yours fails, it can be difficult to determine the source of the issue and make sure you fix it properly.

Fixing the broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal locking mechanism or latch, will improve the security of your uPVC door and prevent draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be expensive and can cause damage to the door's frame and lock It is therefore worth taking some time to make sure you do it right.

Screwdriver: With the window open remove the screw that holds the handle. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate. It is typically covered by an eye-catching cap to conceal it to enhance the appearance. It is not recommended to lose any internal components of the handle such as the levers and plates on either side. Ideally, keep them in the same order so that you can replace them again when needed.

Then, turn the handle so it's at 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw at the back of the handle that holds it to the internal spindle using another screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, pull the handle out and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a brand new one, making sure that it is the same length as the previous one (you can usually find these on the internet or at hardware stores) and screw it securely in the correct position. Be careful not to overtighten as this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.

Ensure the new handle is fitted, then close and test the handle. It should function smoothly and you'll be able to open your window once again.

Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is closing properly when you're using the handle. If they aren't closing properly, you could experience draughts or damp in your home. It could also affect the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of the window frames to ensure that they close correctly.

Broken Spindle

It is more typical for the spindle to break than the handle. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These kinds of windows require a handle that is a lock mechanism that is located in the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a rod in the centre that is then activated by a series of cams that resemble mushrooms, which locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism does not open after the handle has been turned, it is likely the spindle is broken. This can be a problem that is frustrating.

There are ways to fix this problem. A skilled locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. A good locksmith will be able to disassemble the window's handle using a tool to take out the wheel part where the spindle is located. This can be done without damage to the handle or window frame.

After removing the wheel, the technician will inspect the spindle to determine the cause of the break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its constituent components and carefully observing their general condition as in addition to any specific areas of wear or damage. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians in a clean and safe environment.

The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This helps eliminate any dirt or debris that might be obstructing its normal operation. Following this, the spindle could be repaired or replaced. If it's being replaced, the technician will need the dowel that is similar in size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes into both parts of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.

If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it could be required to replace it completely. Home centers sell generic replacements but If the style of your window is rare 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 in place it can be positioned to the handle by lining up the screw holes in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the handle is in place, you can use your uPVC windows.