Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Maybe the window or door handles aren't able to connect properly or are difficult to use.

It is crucial that the double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you'll be wasting energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for an affordable cost.

Snapped Key

When a key snaps off within a lock, it could be extremely frustrating. It can also be a security risk because it could expose you to a burglar if the door does not lock. There are a few quick fixes you can try to resolve the issue and make your door work again.

Be sure to remain calm. If you panic and start playing around with your keys you may end up pushing the damaged piece of the key further into the lock, which could make the situation worse.

Next spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break off any pieces that are stuck. If you have a part of the key stuck then grab it using the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be very careful not to push the broken piece of the key deeper into the keyway.

Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can be used as hook extractors, and some jigsaw blades are also suitable for this purpose. If you don't have any of these you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, you can use a pair of tweezers grasp and pull out the remaining pieces of broken keys.

If you can't get the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. It is available at most hardware stores, and it works by freezing any moisture or ice that might be inside the lock.

If none of these solutions seem to work, it could be time to contact a locksmith. Fitlocks specialists are able to quickly resolve issues with uPVC door locks and mechanisms, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are easier to operate. You can request a double-glazing repair online or contact us to discuss your requirements.

Broken Cylinder

A damaged cylinder poses an extremely risky security issue. It's fortunately a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. A locksmith must tap the cylinder to fix it. This can be accomplished with a hammer or other tool. However, the best method is to employ a wire or long match. Place the match or wire's end in the keyway. The locksmith can hit the lock to break it open. This is better than using the hammer, which could harm the lock.

The most frequent cause for cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can happen when the cylinder head and block are made from different metals such as cast-iron and aluminum. Different metals can be heated and cool at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest of the cylinder.

Corrosion is a different cause of fractures in cylinders. If the cylinder head and the cylinder block aren't properly maintained, this can lead to rusting or corrosion and cause them to expand at a higher rate than they should. This can lead to cracks as time passes.

If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle or requires a lot of pressure to turn, it could be due to a number of things. A malfunctioning locking mechanism, misalignment, or the wear of the handle are typical reasons for this issue.

Fortunately it is a simple and inexpensive fix for most homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith should be able solve this issue within a matter of hours after arriving at your residence. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes based on your specific needs. A professional locksmith will be able to provide you with a recommendation of the most cost-effective option for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to high-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will provide an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small amount to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secured.

Broken Handle

It's not surprising that window handle locks can break. They have complex mechanisms which deteriorate over time. If yours breaks, it can be difficult to determine the source of the issue and make sure you fix it properly.

Whether the problem is in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle can improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you stop the draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can 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 right.

With the window in the open position, loosen the screw that secures the handle by using a screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, usually hidden by the cap of the screw for aesthetic purposes. It is not recommended to lose any internal parts of the handle, such as the plates and levers on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same order so you can replace them again if needed.

Next, turn the handle so it's at 90 degrees to the window frame. Finally, loosen the screw at the back of the handle that holds it to the internal spindle with a second screwdriver. Once the screw is released, you'll be able to pull the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or at hardware stores). Securely screw it in the correct position. Do not overtighten the screw as this can harm the handle as well as the window frame.

Close the handle and try it. It should operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your windows once more.

Make sure to check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're working with the handle. If they're not then you may experience damp and draughts in your home, as and also affecting the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of your window frames to ensure that they shut correctly.

Broken Spindle

It is often the case that the spindle in the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is most common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These kinds of windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a rod in the centre that is then activated by a series of mushroom-like locking cams, these secure the frame of the window. If the dead latch mechanism does not open after the handle has been turned, it's likely the spindle is broken. This could be a problem that is frustrating.

There are ways to fix this issue. A good locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively fix this problem. A professional locksmith can disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to remove the wheel part that houses the spindle. This is done without damage to the handle or the window doctor frame.

Once the wheel is removed the technician can then inspect the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its component parts and carefully recording their general condition as in addition to any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This process is typically performed in a clean room by highly skilled technicians.

The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This assists in removing any dirt or other debris that might be hindering its normal operation. Following this the spindle could be repaired or replaced. 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 holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.

If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it might require replacement. Home centers can sell generic replacements however if your window style is rare, you will have to speak with a cabinet maker or woodworker who can make the exact piece. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be fitted to the handle by lining up the screw holes on the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the handle is securely seated, you can operate your uPVC windows.