Are your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
You'll lose energy when your double-glazed doors do not function properly. This can also increase the likelihood of burglaries. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key snaps into a lock. It also poses a security risk, as the door might not lock and leave you vulnerable to burglars. There are a couple of quick solutions you can use to fix the problem and make your door work again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
Spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil, into the lock. This will help the broken piece to be removed more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any stuck pieces that could be hindering the flow. If you're lucky enough to have a small piece of the key that is hanging out and you want to remove it, make use of a paperclip or other thin metal object to grab it and pull it out. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the broken key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can serve as hook extractors, and some jigsaw blades are also suitable for this function. If you don't have one of these tools you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grip and pull out the remaining bit of the broken key.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key, use a lock deicer. It's available at most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present within the lock.
If none of these tricks appear to be working then it's probably the time to contact a locksmith. Fitlocks specialists are able to quickly solve problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms such as snapped keys and broken handles. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to make them more user-friendly. You can book repairs to your double-glazing online or call us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose a serious security risk. It's fortunately a simple repair for an expert locksmith to complete. To fix the cylinder a locksmith will need to tap it. They can do this using a hammer or other tools, but the most effective method is to make use of a long match or a piece of wire. Then, put the match's end or wire in the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock in order to crack it. This is much better than using a heavy hammer, which could damage the lock.
Overheating is the primary reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the cylinder block and cylinder head are made of different metals, like cast iron and aluminum. Different metals will heat up and cool down at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand quicker than the rest.
Another possible cause for cylinder cracks is corrosion. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained properly, they can rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand faster than they would normally. Over time, this can 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 causes. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment or an old handle are the most common causes of this issue.
Fortunately, this is an easy and affordable fix for the majority of double glazing owners. A professional locksmith is able to solve the issue within one hour of arriving at the home. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles, and also change the gearboxes based on your specific needs. A professional locksmith will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that provide an additional layer of protection from burglars. It's a small price to pay for the security that comes from knowing that your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks may break. They have intricate mechanisms that wear out over time. If yours is damaged, it can be difficult to pinpoint the cause of the issue and make sure that you repair it correctly.
The issue could be related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, fixing the broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you stop drafts. It can be expensive to replace or repair your handle incorrectly and it can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver When the window is open, loosen the screw holding the handle. It should be located on the inside face of the back plate, and is normally hidden by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. It is not recommended to lose any internal components of the handle such as the plates and levers on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same order so you can replace them in the event of a need.
Then, rotate the handle to make it 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw on the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle with another screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you should be able to pull the handle off and take off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can find them online or at hardware stores). Securely screw it in the frame. Be cautious not to overtighten as this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able to unlock your window.
While you're working on the handle, make sure to make sure your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If double glazing repair don't close properly, you may experience damp or draughts in your home. You could also compromise the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of your window frames to ensure that they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more typical for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is particularly common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These kinds of windows require a handle which is a lock mechanism that is located in the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a central rod which activates mushroom-shaped locking cams that lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned, it is likely that the spindle has been damaged This can be an extremely frustrating issue.
There are solutions to this problem. A good locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively fix this problem. They can disassemble the window handle by using a tool that can remove the wheel component of the mechanism that is where the spindle is. This can be done with no damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician can inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its individual components and carefully observing their general condition as well as any particular areas of damage or excessive wear. This procedure is usually performed in a clean room by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this assists in removing any dirt or debris that might be obstructing its normal functioning. The spindle could be replaced or repaired. If it's being replaced, the technician will need an identical dowel size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes into both parts of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it completely. Home centres sell generic substitutes but if the window style is rare you'll have to speak with an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can replicate the exact part. After the spindle is installed, it can be fixed to the handle. The screw holes on the handle to the screws already in the frame. Once the new handle is in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.
