Are your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Maybe the window or door handles aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
You'll be wasting energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to perform as they should. This also increases the likelihood of burglaries. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be frustrating when a key snaps into the lock. It can also be a security problem because it could leave you vulnerable to burglars if your door is not locked. Fortunately, there are some quick fixes that you can try to resolve the issue and get your door functioning properly again.
Keep calm. If you panic and begin poking around wildly you could end up pushing the damaged piece of the key even further into the lock, making the situation even more difficult.
Next, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to help the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break up any stuck pieces that could be blocking the way. If you happen to have a small piece of the key that is hanging out it, you can make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and then pull it out. Both of these methods work well, but be careful not to push the damaged piece of the key deeper into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you don't happen to have one of these tools, you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, you can use a pair tweezers to grasp and pull out the last piece of broken keys.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of the key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It's available in many hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture present in the lock.
If none of these strategies appear to be working then it's probably the time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly resolve issues with uPVC door locks and mechanisms, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are easier to use. Get a double glazing repair through us online or give us a call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder is an immediate security risk. It's fortunately a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. A locksmith must tap the cylinder to fix it. This can be accomplished with a hammer or other tool. However, the best method is to use a wire or a long match. The match or wire's end close to the keyway. The locksmith can then hit the lock to break it. This is superior to using a hammer that could harm the lock.
Overheating is the primary reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can occur when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made of different metals, like cast iron and aluminum. Different metals can heat up and cool down at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand quicker than the rest.
Corrosion can be a reason for cylinder fractures. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained properly they could be corroded or rust and cause them to expand faster than they would normally. As time passes, this may cause cracks.
If your uPVC door or window lock is brittle or requires an enormous amount of pressure to turn, it can be the result of a number of things. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment or an old handle are the most common causes of this problem.
Fortunately it's a simple and inexpensive fix for most double glazing owners. A professional locksmith will usually be able solve this issue within a matter of hours of arriving at your home. Depending on the needs of your home they will be able to replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience can always advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to 3 Star security Euro cylinders, TS007, that will give you an additional layer of security against burglars. It's a small price to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks may break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms that become less effective over time. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the reason for the problem and fix it correctly.
The issue could be in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you stop the draughts. It can be expensive to replace or repair the handle in a way that isn't done correctly. It can also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver When the window is open and the screw loose, loosen the handle. It should be located on the inside of the back plate, which is usually concealed by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. It is not recommended to lose any internal components of the handle, such as the plates and levers on either side. Keep them in the same order to make it easier to replace if necessary.
Then, with another screwdriver loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle on the back. Once the screw is loose, you can pull the handle out and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can purchase them online or in hardware stores). Screw it in the frame. Do not tighten the screw too much as this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Check that the new handle is fitted, then close and test the handle. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able unlock your window.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they're not closing correctly, you could encounter draughts or damp in your home. You could also compromise the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be able to adjust the hinges on your window frames so they are able to shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is usually the case that the spindle inside the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is most common 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 a central rod which activates cams with a mushroom shape that secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open after the handle is turned, it is likely the spindle is broken. This can be a problem that is frustrating.
There are solutions to this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. A good locksmith can disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to take out the wheel portion that houses the spindle. This can be done with no damage to the handle or window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician can examine the spindle and identify what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining every component, observing any wear or damage. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians in an environment that is clean.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or other debris that could be hindering its normal operation. After this the spindle is cleaned, it could be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, the dowel can be used that is comparable 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 is beyond repair, it could be required to replace it completely. Home centres sell generic replacements. However, if the style of your window is unique then you will need to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can replicate the exact component for you. After the spindle is installed, it is attached to the handle. The screw holes on the handle with the screws already in the frame. Once the new handle is in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.
