Have your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Perhaps the window or door handles aren't aligned properly or are hard to use.
It's important that the double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for an affordable price.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off inside a lock, it can be incredibly annoying. It also poses a security risk since the door may not be locked and could leave you vulnerable to burglars. Fortunately, there are simple fixes you can try to resolve the problem and get your door working properly once more.
First, remember to stay calm. If you panic and begin playing around with your keys, you might just end up pushing the broken piece of the key deeper into the lock, making the situation even more difficult.
Next spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break off any pieces stuck. If you happen to have a little bit of the key left hanging out and you want to remove it, make use of a paperclip or other thin metal object to grab it and then pull it out. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the damaged key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that could serve as hook extractors, and some jigsaw blades are also suitable for this use. If you don't happen to have one of these tools, you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Also, a pair tweezers is a good way to grasp and pull out the remaining piece of the key that was broken.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key then you can use a lock deicer. It's usually available at all hardware stores, and it works by freezing any moisture or ice that may be in the lock.
If none of these methods appear to be working you, it's time to call in a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can fix issues such as broken handles or snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. Request double glazing repairs for your double glazing through us online, or give us a phone call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose a serious security threat. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. This can be done with the hammer or other tool. The best method is to make use of a wire or a long match. Place the match or wire's end close to the keyway. After this, the locksmith will strike the lock to crack it open. This is much safer than using a heavy hammer that can harm the lock.
Overheating is the main cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made of various metals, including cast iron and aluminum. When the different metals are heated and cool 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 head and block of the cylinder are not maintained correctly they may rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand faster than they would normally. This can cause cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC window lock or door is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, it could be due to a number of things. This problem can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment or a worn-out handle.
This is a simple and affordable fix that the majority of homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith will usually be able solve this problem within an hour of arriving at your property. Depending on your needs they can change the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to inform you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to high-security 3 Star euro cylinders TS007 that give you an additional layer of security against burglars. This is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks could break. They have complex mechanisms which deteriorate over time. It isn't easy to determine the reason behind the broken window handle lock and repair it correctly.
If the issue is in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you to stop the draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be expensive and can cause damage to the door's frame and lock, so it's worth taking the time to do it correctly.
With the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle with the screwdriver. This should be located on the inside of the back plate, which is usually covered by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. Be sure not to lose any of the internal components within the handle, for example the plates or levers that are on either side of the spindle. Ideally, keep them in the same order so that you can re-install them in the event of a need.
Then, turn the handle to make it 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw on the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle by using a second screwdriver. Once this is loose, you should be able to pull the handle away and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or in hardware stores). Securely screw it in the correct position. Do not overtighten the screw as this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Close the handle and test it. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able open your window again.
Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is closing properly while you're working with the handle. If they're not, you could experience draughts and damp in your home, as in addition to compromising the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges on the window frames to ensure they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is quite common that the spindle inside the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is particularly typical in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle which acts as a locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is attached to a rod in the centre that triggers a set of mushroom-like locking cams, these lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle has been turned, it's likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a problem that is frustrating.
There are solutions to this problem. A professional locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively address this issue. They can remove the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel part of the mechanism, where the spindle goes. This can be done without causing any damage to the handle or causing other damage to the frame of the window.
After removing the wheel the technician will inspect the spindle and determine the reason for its break. This involves breaking the spindle into its individual parts and carefully recording their general condition, as in addition to any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. The process is carried out in a clean, well-lit room by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this assists in removing any debris or dirt that might be hindering its normal operation. 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 the same size to the original. The technician will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle has precisely matched to the handle.
If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it could require replacement completely. Home centres sell generic replacements but if the design of your window is unique then it will be necessary to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact component for you. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be positioned to the handle by lining up the screw holes in the handle and the frame existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.
