Has your uPVC window or door mechanism become faulty? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
It's important that the double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you'll be wasting energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks within a lock, it could be extremely frustrating. It could also be an issue for security, since the door may not lock and leave you open to intrusion. Fortunately, there are some quick fixes that you can attempt to fix the problem and get your door working properly once more.
First, remember to stay calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Spray WD-40, or any other penetrating lubricant, into the lock. This will help the broken piece to come out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any pieces stuck that might be hindering the flow. If you have a chunk of the key that's stuck 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 that can be used to extract hooks and some Jigsaw blades can also be used for this use. If you do not have any of these handy, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend them and create hooks. Finally, you can use a pair of tweezers grab and remove the last piece of broken keys.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of the key out, try using a lock de-icer. It is available at most hardware stores, and it is used to freeze any water or ice that could be inside the lock.
If none of these methods are working, it might be the time to contact locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly solve problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks such as snapped keys and broken handles. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to make them more user-friendly. Request a repair for your double glazing through us online, or give us a phone call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose an extremely risky security issue. A professional locksmith is able to fix the cylinder. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths will need to tap it. This can be accomplished with a hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to employ a wire or long match. Then, place the end of the match or wire in the keyway. The locksmith will then hit the lock to crack it. This is far better than using a hammer that could cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the primary reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can happen when the block and cylinder head are made from different metals like cast-iron and aluminium. Different metals will heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest of the cylinder.
Another possible cause of cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained properly they could corrosion or rust and cause them to expand more than they would normally. Over time, this can cause cracks.
If your uPVC door or window lock is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, it could be due to a number of things. This issue could be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment, or a worn-out handle.
Fortunately it is a simple and inexpensive fix for most homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith will usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at the property. Depending on your needs they can change the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that provide an additional layer of protection from burglars. It is a small cost to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that wear out with age and use, so it's not a surprise that they sometimes break. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the cause of the broken window handle lock and fix it correctly.
Whether helpful resources is related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, repairing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and allow you stop the draughts. It could be costly to replace or repair your handle if it is not done correctly and can also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window in the open position then loosen the screw holding the handle using a screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside face of the back plate, and is normally concealed by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. You should not lose any internal components of the handle like the levers and plates on either side. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is easier to replace if necessary.
Next, turn the handle until it's 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw at 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 the broken spindle out. 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 into the frame. Don't over tighten the screw as this can harm the handle as well as the window frame.
Close the handle and test it. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able open your window again.
While you're working on the handle, be sure to make sure your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they're not closing properly, you could experience draughts and damp in your home as in addition to compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames so they can shut 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 kinds of windows require a handle which acts as a locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is connected to a central rod that activates a series of locks that are shaped like mushrooms and lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned it is possible that the spindle has been damaged and this could be an extremely frustrating issue.
Luckily there are steps that can be taken to rectify this issue. A skilled locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. A good locksmith will be able to disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool that removes the wheel from the area where the spindle is located. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After the wheel has been removed, the technician will inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting each component part, noting any wear or damage. This procedure is usually carried out in a clean room by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This helps eliminate any debris or dirt that might be hindering its normal operation. Following this the spindle could be repaired or replaced. If it is replaced, the technician could use an identical dowel size to the original and drill mating holes into both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centers can sell generic replacements however if your window design is unique then you'll have to speak with a cabinet maker or woodworker who can recreate the exact part. Once the spindle has been installed, it is fixed to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle to the existing screws in the frame. Once the handle is set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.
