Has your uPVC window or door mechanism become faulty? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
It is essential that the double glazed doors function smoothly, or else you will lose energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off within a lock, it could be incredibly frustrating. It's also potentially a security risk since the door may not be locked and leave you vulnerable to intruders. There are a few quick solutions you can use to resolve the issue and get your door working again.
The first step is to remain calm. If you get scared and start poking around wildly, you might just end up pushing the damaged piece of the key even further into the lock, which could make the situation much worse.
Spray WD-40, or any other penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will assist the broken piece to come out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break pieces that might be hindering the flow. If you're fortunate enough to have a little bit of the key left visible it, 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 damaged piece of the key deeper into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can be used to extract hooks and some Jigsaw blades also work for this use. If you don't have any of these items then you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. You can also use a pair of tweezers grab and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
If you can't get the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. This is usually available at most hardware stores. It works by freezing any moisture or ice that may be inside the lock.
If none of these strategies are working, it might be time to call a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks 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 easier to operate. Book a double glazing repair through us online, or give us a call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder poses an immediate security risk. A locksmith professional can fix the cylinder. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths will need to tap it. They can do this with an hammer or another tools, but the most effective method is to employ an extended match or piece of wire. Position the match or the wire's end close to the keyway. The locksmith will then hit the lock to crack it. This is much safer than using a hammer, which could harm the lock.
Overheating is the main reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can happen when the cylinder head and block are made of various metals such as cast-iron and aluminum. Different metals can heat up and cool off at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand faster than the rest.
Corrosion can be a reason for cracks in the cylinder. If the cylinder head as well as cylinder block are not properly maintained, it can cause corrosion or rust that could cause them to expand at a more than they ought to. In time, this could also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires a lot more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety of reasons. This problem can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism, or misalignment or a worn-out handle.
It is a quick and affordable fix that the majority of double glazing owners can do. A professional locksmith should be able to solve this issue within a matter of hours of arriving at your home. Based on your requirements, they can replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith can always advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to high-security 3 Star euro cylinders TS007 that add an extra layer of protection against burglars. This is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks can break. They have complex mechanisms which deteriorate over time. If yours fails it's difficult to determine the source of the problem and make sure you fix it properly.
Fixing the broken handle, whether it's an internal latch or locking mechanism will increase the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be expensive and could damage the door's frame and lock, so it's worth taking some time to make sure you do it right.
Screwdriver: With the window open and the screw loose, loosen the handle. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate. It is typically hidden by an eye-catching cap to conceal it to enhance the appearance. You should not be able to replace any internal parts of the handle like the plates and levers on either side. It is best to keep them in the same order so you can replace them again in the event of a need.
Then, using another screwdriver, loosen the screw that holds the handle to the spindle in the back. Once the screw is loose, take the handle off and remove the broken spindle. Replace this with a new one, making sure it is the same length as the previous one (you will typically find them on the internet or in hardware stores) and securely screw it in the right place. Be careful not to overtighten because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It should operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your window once again.
Make sure to check that your uPVC window is closing properly when you're using the handle. If they aren't closing correctly, you could encounter damp or draughts inside your home. It could also affect the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on the window frames to ensure they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle in the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is most common in uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These kinds of windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is attached 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 is not able to open when the handle has been turned, it's likely the spindle is broken. This can be a frustrating issue.
There are ways to fix this issue. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and effectively fix the issue. They will be able to remove the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel component of the mechanism where the spindle is. This is done without damaging the handle or causing any other damage to the window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician will inspect the spindle and determine the reason for its break. This involves disassembling the spindle, and then examining each component, noting any damage or excessive wear. The process is carried out in a clean, well-lit room by skilled technicians.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or debris which might be preventing it from operating normally. After that the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If it is being replaced the technician will need the dowel that is similar in size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes into both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the new spindle is an exact fit with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centres sell generic replacements but if the design of your window is unusual then you will need to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact component for you. Once the spindle has been installed, it is attached to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle with the screws already in the frame. Once the new handle is firmly in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.
