Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism broken? Maybe the window or door handles aren't aligned properly or are difficult to use.
You'll lose energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to function properly. This can also increase the likelihood of burglaries. 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 extremely difficult. This can also be a security issue in that it can leave you vulnerable to a burglar if the door does not lock. Fortunately, there are quick fixes you can try to resolve the problem and get your door working properly again.
Keep calm. If you panic you could end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
Then spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to help the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break up any pieces that are stuck. If you have a part of the key that is stuck out and is not being removed, grab it with a paperclip or another thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the broken key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you don't have any of these items then you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and pull out the remaining bit of the broken key.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It is available in most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present in the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it might be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can solve problems like broken handles and snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are more easy to operate. Book a double glazing repair with us online or give us a call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose an immediate security risk. A professional locksmith is able to fix the cylinder. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder to repair it. They can do this with the hammer or any other tool, but the best way is to make use of a long match or a piece of wire. Then, put the match's end or wire near the keyway. After that, the locksmith will strike the lock and break it open. This is much safer than using a heavy hammer that could damage the lock.
Overheating is the main cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the block and the cylinder head are made from different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. Different metals will be heated and cool at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand quicker than the rest of the cylinder.
Corrosion is a different cause of fractures in cylinders. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained in a timely manner they may be corroded or rust and cause them to expand more than expected. This could lead to cracks over time.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of causes. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment or an old handle are the most common reasons for this issue.
This is a simple and cost-effective fix that a majority of homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith will usually fix this problem within one hour of arriving at your property. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, based on the specific requirements of your home. A professional locksmith will be able to inform you of the most cost-effective solution for your home. They may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which give you an extra layer of protection from burglars. This is 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 can break. They have intricate mechanisms that become less effective over time. If yours fails, it can be difficult to pinpoint the cause of the issue. Make sure you fix it correctly.
If the issue is related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, repairing your broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you stop drafts. It could be costly to repair or replace your handle incorrectly and it could also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver Open the window, loosen the screw holding the handle. The screw should be on the inside of the back plate, and is normally covered by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. It is important to not lose any internal parts of the handle such as the levers and plates on either side. Keep them in the same order to make it easier to replace if necessary.
Then, turn the handle until it's 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle with a second screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, remove the handle and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or at hardware stores). Securely screw it into the correct position. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Ensure the new handle is correctly installed, then close and test the handle. It should function smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're working with the handle. If they're not cause damp and draughts in your home as in addition to compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames to ensure they shut correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more common for the spindle to break than the handle. This is particularly typical in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle which acts as a locking mechanism within the frame of the window. The handle is attached to a central rod which in turn activates cams that resemble mushrooms, which lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned it is likely that the spindle has been damaged This can be a frustrating problem.
Luckily, there are options to remedy this situation. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. A good locksmith will be able disassemble the window's handle using a tool that removes the wheel portion where the spindle is located. This can be done without damaging the handle or causing other damage to the window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician can examine the spindle and identify the reason for its break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting every component, observing any wear or damage. The process is done in a clean room by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this will remove any dirt or other debris that might be obstructing its normal operation. The spindle can then be repaired or replaced. If it's being replaced, the technician could use the dowel that is similar in size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes in both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle is perfectly matched with the handle.
If the damaged spindle cannot be repaired it may require replacement. double glazing repairs near me sell generic substitutes but if the window style is rare then you'll need to contact a cabinet maker or woodworker who can make the exact piece. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be fitted to the handle by lining up the screw holes in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.
