Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Has your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned properly or are difficult to use.
You will lose energy if your double-glazed doors don't work properly. This can also increase the risk of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key gets stuck into the lock. It also poses a security risk since the door may not be locked and make you vulnerable to intruders. Fortunately, there are double glazing repairs Birmingham that you can try to resolve the issue and get your door working properly again.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic and start doing a lot of fumbling around you may end up pushing the broken piece of the key deeper into the lock, making the situation worse.
Next spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to help the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any pieces stuck that could be blocking the way. If you have a piece of the key still sticking out then grab it using a paperclip or another 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 can also work well for this. If you don't happen to have one of these tools you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, you can use a pair of tweezers grasp and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
If you are unable to 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 water or ice that could be inside the lock.
If none of these methods appear to be working then it's probably time to call in a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix problems such as broken handles and snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are simpler to use. Book a double glazing repair with us online or give us a call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose an extremely risky security issue. A professional locksmith can easily fix the cylinder. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder to repair it. This can be done using a hammer, or any other tool. However, the most effective method is to make use of a wire or a long match. Place the match or wire's end close to the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock in order to crack it. This is superior to using a hammer, which can cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the most common reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can happen when the cylinder block and cylinder 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, leading to cracks.
Another possible cause of cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained in a timely manner they may be corroded or rust, which can cause them to expand faster than anticipated. In time, this could also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window lock or door is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, it can be caused by several things. This issue could be caused by a faulty locking mechanism, or misalignment and also a worn out handle.
Fortunately it's a simple and affordable fix for the majority of homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith will usually be able to resolve the issue within an hour of arriving at your property. Depending on your needs they can change the locking mechanism, change the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to advise you of the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to 3 Star security euro cylinders TS007 that give you an additional layer of protection against burglars. It's a small amount to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks are complex mechanisms that become less effective with age and use, so it's no surprise that they sometimes break. If yours fails, it can be difficult to determine the source of the problem and make sure you fix it properly.
The issue could be related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, fixing the broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you to stop drafts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be very expensive and could harm the door's frame as well as lock, so it's worth taking the time to do it correctly.
Screwdriver: With the window open and the screw loose, loosen 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. Be careful not to lose any of the internal components within the handle, such as the levers or plates on either side of the spindle. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is simpler to replace them in the event of a need.
Then, with an additional screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle with the spindle on the back. Once the screw is loose, you can take the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace this with a new one, ensuring it is the same length as the previous one (you can typically find these online or in hardware stores) and securely screw it into place. Do not overtighten the screw as this can damage the handle and the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able to unlock your window.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're using the handle. If they're not, you could experience damp and draughts inside your home as and also affecting the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges of the frames of your windows to ensure they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle within the handle breaks, rather than the handle itself. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that is a lock mechanism that is located in the window frame. The handle is attached to a centre rod that triggers a set of cams that look like mushrooms, they lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle has been turned, it is most likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are ways to fix this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. A professional locksmith can disassemble the window's handle using a tool that removes the wheel portion that houses the spindle. This is done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
Once the wheel has been removed, the technician can inspect the spindle to determine what has caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its component parts and carefully recording their general condition as in addition to any specific areas of wear or damage. The process is done in a clean environment by highly skilled technicians.
Next, clean the damaged spindle. This will help get rid of any dirt or other debris that may be obstructing it from operating normally. After that the spindle is cleaned, it can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle it is possible to use a dowel that is similar in size to the original. The technician will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This ensures that the new spindle is an exact fit with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the window design is unusual, you will require contacting an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can make the exact component. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be positioned to the handle by line up the screw holes on the handle and the frame existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.