Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Are your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.

You'll be wasting energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to work properly. This increases the likelihood of burglaries. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at reasonable costs.

Snapped Key

If a key breaks within a lock, it can be extremely frustrating. This can also be a security issue, as it may leave you vulnerable to an intruder if the door is not locked. There are a couple of quick solutions you can use to repair the issue and make your door work again.

Keep calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the broken key further into the lock.

Then, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break any pieces that are stuck. If you're lucky enough to have a small piece of the key left sticking out, you can make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and remove it. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the broken key further into the keyway.

Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades can also work well for this. If you don't have any of these items then you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grip and remove the remaining bit of the broken key.

If you can't get the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It's usually found in most hardware stores, and it is used to freeze any moisture or ice that might be inside the lock.

If none of these strategies are working you, it's time to call in 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 modify your double glazing door mechanisms to make them more user-friendly. Get a double glazing repair through us online or give us a call to discuss your requirements.

Broken Cylinder

A damaged cylinder poses an extremely risky security issue. Luckily, it's an easy repair for a professional locksmith to complete. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. They can do this using an hammer or another tools, but the most effective way is to make use of a long match or a piece of wire. Then, position the match's tip or wire close to the keyway. After that, the locksmith will strike the lock to crack it open. This is superior to using the hammer, which could harm the lock.

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

Corrosion can be a reason for cylinder fractures. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained properly they could corrosion or rust and cause them to expand faster than they would normally. This can cause cracks as time passes.

If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, it can be the result of many things. This can be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment, as well as a worn-out handle.

It is a quick and affordable fix that the majority of double glazing owners can do. A professional locksmith will typically be able to resolve this problem within an hour after arriving at your residence. They can replace the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and replace the gearboxes, based on your particular requirements. A professional locksmith can always advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that give you an extra layer of protection against burglars. It's a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.

Broken Handle

Window handle locks are complex mechanisms that deteriorate as time passes and use, so it's no surprise that they can break. If yours breaks it's difficult to identify the cause of the issue and make sure you fix it properly.

If the issue is related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, fixing your broken handle can improve your upvc window repairs double glazing door's security as well as help you stop the draughts. It can be expensive to replace or repair your handle incorrectly and it can also damage the frame and lock of your door.

With the window open and the window open, loosen the screw that secures the handle by using a 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 sure not to damage any of the internal components inside the handle, for example the plates or levers on either side of the spindle. Ideally, keep them in the same place so you can re-install them in the event of a need.

Then, with another screwdriver loosen the screw that holds the handle to the spindle in the back. Once the screw is released, you'll be capable of pulling the handle away and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, making sure it's the same length (you can purchase them online or in hardware stores). Screw it in the frame. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could damage the handle or the window frame.

Ensure the new handle is correctly fitted, then close and test the handle. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able to unlock your window.

While you're working on the handle, don't forget to ensure that your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they don't cause damp and draughts inside your home as in addition to compromising your home's energy efficiency. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be able to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they shut correctly.

Broken Spindle

It is more common for the spindle to break than the handle. This is most frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These types of windows require a handle which is a lock mechanism that is located in the window frame. The handle is attached a central rod that activates a series of mushroom-shaped locking cams that lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle has been turned, it's likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a frustrating issue.

Fortunately, there are ways to fix this problem. A professional locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively fix this problem. They will be able to take apart the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel component of the mechanism that is where the spindle goes. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.

After removing the wheel, the technician can inspect the spindle to determine what caused it to 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 damage or excessive wear. This process is usually 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 that could be hindering its normal function. The spindle may then be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle he can use a dowel that is similar in size to the original. Then, he will drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.

If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it might require replacement completely. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the window style is rare then you'll require contacting an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can recreate the exact piece. Once the spindle has been installed, it can be fixed to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle with the screws that are already in the frame. Once the new handle is installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.