Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC window or door mechanism not working properly? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't aligned properly or are hard to use.

You'll be wasting energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to perform as they should. This increases the risk of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to fix your door lock at reasonable costs.

Snapped Key

When a key snaps off in the lock, it can be extremely difficult. It's also potentially a security risk, as the door may not lock and make you open to intrusion. Fortunately, there are some quick fixes you can try to resolve the issue and get your door working properly once more.

Be calm. If you panic and begin doing a lot of fumbling around you may end up pushing the damaged piece of the key deeper into the lock, making the situation much worse.

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 might be hindering the flow. If you have a part of the key that is stuck out and is not being removed, grab it with a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be very careful not to push the damaged piece of the key deeper into the keyway.

Some paperclips come with grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you don't have one of these tools you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grasp and pull out the last part of the broken key.

If you can't get the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It is available in most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present inside the lock.

If none of these solutions seem to work, it may be time to contact a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix problems such as broken handles and snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are easier to operate. Book a double glazing repair with us online or give us a phone call to discuss your requirements.

Broken Cylinder

A broken cylinder is an immediate security risk. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for a professional locksmith to complete. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder to repair it. They can do this using a hammer or other tools, but the most effective way is to employ a long match or piece of wire. Then, place the match's tip or wire in the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock to break it. This is far better than using a hammer that can damage the lock.

Overheating is the main cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the block and cylinder head are made from different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. Different metals will be heated and cool at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest of the cylinder.

Another possible cause for cylinder cracks is corrosion. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained in a timely manner, they can corrosion or rust, which can cause them to expand more than expected. Over time, this can cause cracks.

If your uPVC door or window lock is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, this can be the result of several things. This issue could result from a defective locking mechanism or misalignment, as well as a worn-out handle.

It is a quick and inexpensive fix that most double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith will usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at the home. Depending on your needs, they can replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and also change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to provide you with a recommendation on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that offer an additional security layer from burglars. It's a small price to get the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secure.

Broken Handle

Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that wear out as time passes and use, so it's no surprise that they sometimes break. If yours is damaged it's difficult to determine the source of the issue. Make sure you fix it correctly.

The issue could be with the internal locking mechanism or the latch, repairing your broken handle can improve your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you to stop the draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be very expensive and can damage the door's frame and lock and frame, so it's worth spending some time to make sure you do it correctly.

With the window open and the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle with a screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, usually hidden by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic reasons. Be sure not to lose any internal components inside the handle, such as the levers or plates on the opposite side of the spindle. It is best to keep them in the same order so that you can re-install them when needed.

Then, with a second screwdriver loosen the screw that holds the handle to the spindle on the back. Once this is loose, you should be in a position to pull the handle off and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new one, making sure it's the same length as the old one (you will typically find them on the internet or at hardware stores) and securely screw it into the right place. Be careful not to tighten too much as this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.

Check that the new handle is correctly fitted Close the window and test the handle. It should operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your windows once more.

While you're working on the handle, don't forget to make sure your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they aren't closing properly, you may experience damp or draughts in your home. It could also affect the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be able to adjust the hinges on your window frames so they can shut properly.

Broken Spindle

It is more typical for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is particularly common with upvc window repairs tilt-and-turn windows. These kinds of windows require a handle which operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod which in turn activates cams that look like mushrooms, they locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned it is likely that the spindle has been damaged This can be a frustrating problem.

There are solutions to this problem. A reputable 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 from the area that houses the spindle. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.

After removing the wheel the technician can inspect the spindle and determine the reason for its break. This involves breaking the spindle into its constituent parts and carefully recording 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 environment.

Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will help remove any dirt or other debris that may be obstructing it from functioning normally. After that the spindle is cleaned, it can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle the dowel can be used that is similar in size to the original. Then, he will make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle is an exact fit with the handle.

If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centers sell generic replacements, but if your window design is unique you'll require contacting an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can make the exact part. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be attached to the handle by lining up the screw holes in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the new handle is installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.