Has your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to operate.
It is crucial that your double-glazed doors function smoothly, or else you will lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key gets stuck into the lock. This can also be a security problem, as it may make you vulnerable to an intruder if the door is not locked. There are a couple of 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 doing a lot of fumbling around you could end up pushing the damaged piece of the key further into the lock, thereby making the situation even more difficult.
Spray WD-40, or another penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will allow the broken piece be removed more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break up any pieces stuck that might be hindering the flow. If you have a chunk of the key that's stuck out then grab it using a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods are effective, but you need to be careful not to push the damaged key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that could serve to extract hooks and 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. Finally, you can use a pair of tweezers grab and remove the last bit of the broken keys.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of the key out, try using a lock de-icer. It is available in most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture that may be present inside the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to consult a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems like broken handles or snapped keys using uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are simpler to use. You can request an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or call us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be a serious security risk. A professional locksmith is able to fix the cylinder. To fix the cylinder, a locksmith will need to tap it. They can do this using an hammer or another tools, but the most effective method is to make use of a long match or piece of wire. Place the match or wire's end in the keyway. The locksmith will then hit the lock to crack it. This is more secure than using a hammer, which can cause damage to the lock.
The most frequent cause for cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can happen when the block and the cylinder head are made from different metals like cast-iron and aluminum. Different metals can heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand faster than the rest of the cylinder.
Another possible cause of cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained properly, they can be corroded or rust and cause them to expand more than anticipated. 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 many things. This problem can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment, or a worn-out handle.
Fortunately it's a simple and inexpensive fix for most homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith should be able to solve the issue within an hour of arriving at your property. Depending on the needs of your home they can change the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will be able to advise you of the most cost-effective option for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to 3 Star security TS007 euro cylinders that will provide an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small price to pay for the security that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks are complex mechanisms that deteriorate with age and use, so it's no surprise that they can break. If yours fails it may be difficult to identify the cause of the issue and make sure that you repair it correctly.
If the issue is with the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you stop the draughts. It could be costly to replace or repair the handle in a way that isn't done correctly. It can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver When the window is open remove the screw that holds the handle. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, which is usually covered by the cap of the screw for aesthetic purposes. It is not recommended to lose any internal parts of the handle like the levers and plates on either side. It is best to keep them in the same place so you can replace them again in the event of a need.
Next, turn the handle until it's 90 degrees to the window frame. Finally, loosen the screw at the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle with another screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you can remove the handle and take the broken spindle out. Replace double glazing repairs with a new one, making sure that it's the same size as the previous one (you will typically find them on the internet or in hardware stores) and then securely screw it into the correct position. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able to unlock your window.
Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is shut properly when you're using the handle. If they're not, you could experience damp and draughts in your home as in addition to compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges of your window frames to ensure that they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more typical for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle which is a lock mechanism that is located in the window frame. The handle is attached to 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 is turned, it is likely that the spindle is broken This can be an extremely frustrating issue.
Fortunately, there are ways to fix this problem. A professional locksmith can quickly and effectively address this problem. A good locksmith will be able to disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool that removes the wheel from the area that houses the spindle. This can be done without damage to the handle or window frame.
Once the wheel is removed, the technician will inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting each component, noting any wear or damage. This Resource site is typically done in a clean environment by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This assists in removing any dirt or debris that might be hindering its normal function. Following this the spindle is cleaned, it can be repaired or replaced. If it is being replaced the technician could use the dowel that is similar in size to the original and drill mating holes in both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the new spindle has an exact fit with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be required to replace it completely. Home centers can sell generic replacements, but if your window style is rare, you will have to speak with a cabinet maker or woodworker who can recreate the exact part. After the spindle is installed, it is 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 in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.
