Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism not working properly? Perhaps the window or door handles aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
It is essential that your double-glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at a reasonable price.
Snapped Key
When a key snaps off inside a lock, it could be incredibly difficult. This can also be a security problem in that it can expose you to burglars if your door is not locked. Fortunately, there are simple fixes you can use to solve the issue and get your door functioning properly again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic and begin poking around wildly you could end up pushing the broken piece of the key even further into the lock, making the situation even more difficult.
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 any pieces that are stuck. If you're lucky enough to have a bit of the key that is sticking out and you want to remove it, make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and pull it out. Both of these methods work well, but be very careful not to push the broken piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you don't have any of them handy, you can use needle-nose pliers that bend to create a hook. You can also make use of a pair of tweezers to grasp and pull out the last piece of broken keys.
If you are unable to remove the broken key piece, use a lock deicer. It's available in many hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture that may be present within the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to consult a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. You can request an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or call us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can pose a serious security risk. A locksmith professional can fix the cylinder. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. This can be accomplished with the hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to use a wire or a long match. Position the match or the wire's end in the keyway. After this, the locksmith can strike the lock to crack it open. This is superior to using a hammer, which can cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the most common reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the block and the cylinder head are made from different metals like cast-iron and aluminium. When the different metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it can create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, leading to cracks.
Another possible cause of cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained properly they may be corroded or rust, which can cause them to expand faster than they would normally. As time passes, this may also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety reasons. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment, or a worn handle are common causes of this problem.
This is a simple and cost-effective fix that a majority of double glazing owners can do. A professional locksmith will typically be able to resolve this issue within a matter of hours of arriving at your home. Based on your requirements they can change the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that offer an additional layer of protection from burglars. It's a small price to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks could break. They have intricate mechanisms which deteriorate over time. If yours fails it's difficult to identify the cause of the issue. Make sure double glazing window repairs fix it correctly.
Fixing the broken handle, whether it's an internal locking mechanism or latch will increase the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. It could be costly to repair or replace your handle if it is not done correctly and could also harm the frame and lock of your door.
With the window in the open position and the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle using the screwdriver. It should be located on the inside face of the back plate, normally covered by an attractive cover for the screw for aesthetic reasons. You should not lose any internal components of the handle like the plates and levers on either side. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is easier to replace them if needed.
Then, with a second screwdriver, loosen the screw that holds the handle to the spindle on the back. Once this is loose, you should be able to pull the handle off and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, making sure that it is the same length as the old one (you can usually find these online or in hardware stores) and screw it securely in the correct position. Do not tighten the screw too much because this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It should function smoothly, and you will be able open your window after a few times.
Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly while you're working with the handle. If they don't cause damp and draughts inside your home, as and also affecting your home's energy efficiency. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges of the window frames to ensure that they shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is most common in uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These types of windows require a handle which operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is attached a central rod which activates mushroom-shaped locking cams that lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned, it's likely the spindle is broken. This can be a frustrating issue.
There are solutions to this issue. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and efficiently fix this problem. A good locksmith will be able disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool that removes the wheel portion that houses the spindle. This is done without causing any damage to the handle or causing other damage to the frame of the window.
After removing the wheel the technician can examine the spindle and determine the cause of the break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining each component part, noting 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 help remove any dirt or debris which might be preventing it from functioning normally. After that, the spindle could be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle the dowel can be used that is similar in size to the original. He will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be required to replace it completely. Home centres sell generic replacements but If the style of your window is rare then you will need to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact component for you. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be attached to the handle by lining up the screw holes in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.
