Are your uPVC door or window mechanism not working properly? Perhaps the window or door handles aren't able to connect properly or are difficult to use.
You will lose energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to function properly. This can also increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to repair your door lock for a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks inside a lock, it can be extremely frustrating. It can also be a security risk, as it may leave you vulnerable to burglars if your door is not locked. There are fortunately simple fixes you can try to resolve the issue and get your door functioning properly once more.
Be calm. If you panic and start poking around wildly you may end up pushing the broken piece of the key even further into the lock, which could make the situation much worse.
Spray WD-40 or another penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will assist the broken piece emerge more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break up any pieces stuck. If you have a chunk of the key still sticking out, grab it with the help of a paperclip or any 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, which can serve to extract hooks and Jigsaw blades can also be used for this use. If you don't have any of these, you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grasp and pull out the last bit of the broken key.
If you cannot remove the broken piece of key Use a lock deicer. It is available at all hardware stores, and it works by freezing any moisture or ice that may be in the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are simpler to use. You can schedule repairs to your double-glazing online or contact us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose an extremely risky security issue. A professional locksmith is able to repair the cylinder. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder in order to repair it. This can be done with a hammer, or any other tool. The best method is to employ a wire or long match. Then, put the match's end or wire near the keyway. The locksmith will strike the lock to crack it open. This is more secure than using the hammer, which could harm the lock.
Overheating is the primary reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the block and the cylinder head are made from different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. Different metals can heat up and cool off at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest.
Corrosion is a different cause of cracks in the cylinder. When the cylinder head and cylinder block are not maintained properly, this could result in corrosion or rust, which may cause them to expand at greater rates than they should. In time, this could cause cracks.
If your uPVC door or window lock is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, it could be due to many things. This can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism, or misalignment as well as a worn-out handle.
Fortunately it is a simple and affordable fix for the majority of homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith is able to solve the issue within one hour of arriving at your property. Depending on your needs they will be able to replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to high-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will provide an extra layer of protection against burglars. It's a small price to pay for the security that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks may break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms that wear out over time. It isn't easy to determine the reason for the broken window handle lock and then fix it properly.
If the issue is with the internal locking mechanism or the latch, repairing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you to stop drafts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing your handle can be costly and may harm the door's frame as well as lock and frame, so it's worth spending some time to do it right.
Screwdriver When the window is open and the screw loose, loosen the handle. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, usually covered by a screw cap to enhance the appearance. Be sure to not lose any of the internal components within the handle, for example the plates or levers on the opposite side of the spindle. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is easier to replace them if needed.
Then, turn the handle so it's at 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw on the back of the handle that holds it to the internal spindle by using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, pull the handle out and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, making sure it's the same length (you can find them online or at hardware stores). Securely screw it in the frame. Don't over tighten the screw as this could harm the handle as well as the window frame.
Ensure the new handle is fitted after which you can close and test the handle. It should work smoothly and you'll be able to open your window after a few times.
Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is shut properly while you're working with the handle. If they aren't closing correctly, you could encounter damp or draughts in your home. You could also compromise 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 that they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more typical for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is most common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the frame of the window. The handle is attached to a central rod that activates a series of cams with a mushroom shape that secure the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned it is likely that the spindle is broken, this can be a frustrating problem.
There are solutions to this issue. double glazing repairs near me can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. They can disassemble the window handle by using a tool that can remove the wheel portion of the mechanism where the spindle goes. This is done without damaging the handle or causing any other damage to the frame of the window.
After removing the wheel, the technician will inspect the spindle to determine the reason for its break. This involves breaking the spindle into its component parts and meticulously noting their general condition, as well as any particular areas of wear or damage. This procedure is usually done in a clean room by skilled technicians.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any debris or dirt that may be obstructing it from working normally. The spindle could be replaced or repaired. If it is replaced, the technician will need an identical dowel size to the one used in the first 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 spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it could need to be replaced entirely. Home centres sell generic substitutes but if the window design is unique then you'll require contacting an expert in woodworking or cabinet making 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 firmly seated, you can operate your uPVC windows.
