Has your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Perhaps the door or window handles don't meet up 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 fix your door lock for an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be quite frustrating when a key is snapped into a lock. This can also be a security risk, as it may expose you to a burglar if the door is not locked. Fortunately, there are double glazing near me can try to resolve the issue and get your door working properly again.
Be sure to remain calm. If you panic and start poking around wildly you may end up pushing the damaged piece of the key even further into the lock, thereby making the situation even more difficult.
Then, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break up any stuck pieces that could be hindering the flow. If you're lucky enough to have a bit of the key that is visible, you can make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object that is thin to grab it and then pull it out. Both methods work well, but be careful not to push the broken piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can be used as a hook extractor, and some Jigsaw blades also work for this function. If you don't have any of these items then you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Also, a pair tweezers can be used to grasp and pull out the remaining bit of the broken key.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. This is usually available at all hardware stores. It is used to freeze any water or ice that could be in the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it may be time to call a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are simpler to operate. Get a double glazing repair through us online or give us a call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose a serious security risk. It's fortunately a simple repair for a professional locksmith to complete. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths will need to tap it. This can be done with the hammer or other tool. However, the best method is to make use of a wire or a long match. Position the match or the wire's end close to the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock in order to break it. This is superior to using the hammer, which could damage the lock.
The most frequent cause for cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can occur when the block and cylinder head are made of various metals like cast-iron and aluminum. When the different metals are heated and cool at different rates, it could create hotspots locally that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Corrosion can be a cause of fractures in cylinders. If the cylinder head and cylinder block are not maintained properly, this could cause corrosion or rust that could cause them to expand at a greater rates than they ought to. This can lead to cracks over time.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires a lot more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety reasons. This can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment, or a worn-out handle.
This is a straightforward and affordable fix that the majority of double glazing owners can do. A professional locksmith is able to solve this issue within an hour of arriving at your property. Based on your requirements they will be able to replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that provide an additional layer of protection from burglars. It is a small cost to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that become less effective with time and use, so it's not a surprise that they can break. It isn't easy to determine the reason for the problem and then fix it properly.
Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's an internal locking mechanism or latch can increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. It is costly to repair or replace your handle incorrectly and it can also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window open and the window open, loosen the screw that secures the handle using a screwdriver. This should be located on the inside of the back plate, which is usually covered by an attractive cover for the screw for aesthetic reasons. It is not recommended to be able to replace any internal parts of the handle, such as the plates and levers on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same order so that you can replace them again if needed.
Then, using an additional screwdriver loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle in the back. Once this is loose, you should be in a position to pull the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, making sure it is the same length as the previous one (you can usually find these online or in hardware stores) and screw it securely in place. Don't over tighten the screw because this could damage the handle and the window frame.
Make sure the new handle is correctly installed, then close and test the handle. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to check your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they're not then you may experience damp and draughts in your home, as in addition to compromising your home's energy efficiency. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on the window frames to ensure they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more typical for the spindle to break than the handle. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle to operate an locking device within the frame of the window. The handle is attached to a central rod which in turn activates 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's likely the spindle is broken. This could be a frustrating problem.
Luckily, there are steps that can be taken to fix this problem. A skilled locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. A good locksmith will be able disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to take out the wheel part in which the spindle is. This can be done without damaging the handle or causing any other damage to the window frame.
Once the wheel is removed, the technician will examine the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its individual parts and meticulously noting 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 skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any dirt or other debris that might be obstructing its normal function. Following this the spindle is cleaned, it can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle the dowel can be used that is similar in size to the original. He will then drill matching holes into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it might need to be replaced entirely. Home centers sell generic replacements. However, if the style of your window is unusual then it is necessary to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact component for you. Once the new spindle is in place it can be positioned to the handle by lining up the screw holes in the handle and the frame existing screws. Once the handle is set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.
