Has your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
It's important that your double glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you'll lose energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for a reasonable price.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off inside a lock, it could be incredibly annoying. This can also be a security issue because it could expose you to an intruder if the door is not locked. There are a few easy fixes you can try to resolve the issue and get your door working again.
Keep double glazing window repairs . If you get scared and start doing a lot of fumbling around you may end up pushing the broken piece of the key further into the lock, thereby making 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 use a screwdriver to break up any pieces that are stuck. If you have a piece of the key that is stuck out, grab it with a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods are effective, but you need to be careful not to push the broken key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used to extract hooks 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. Finally, you can use a pair of tweezers grasp and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.
If you are unable remove the broken piece of key Use a lock deicer. It's usually found in most hardware stores. It is used to freeze any moisture or ice that might be inside the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it could 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. Get a double glazing repair via our website or give us a call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose a serious security risk. A locksmith professional can fix the cylinder. To fix the cylinder a locksmith will need to tap it. They can do this using an hammer or another tool, but the best method is to employ a long match or piece of wire. Then, position the end of the match or wire near the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock in order to crack it. This is much better than using a hammer that could cause damage to the lock.
The most frequent cause for cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can happen when the block and cylinder head are made from different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminium. Different metals can heat up and cool off at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest of the cylinder.
Another possible cause for cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained correctly they may corrosion or rust and cause them to expand more than expected. This can cause cracks in the future.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires a lot of pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety of reasons. This can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment, as well as a worn-out handle.
Fortunately it is a simple and affordable fix for the majority of homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith will usually solve this issue within an hour of arriving at the property. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes based on your particular requirements. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders which offer an additional security layer from burglars. It's a small price to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks could break. They have intricate mechanisms that become less effective over time. It isn't easy to determine the reason for the problem and repair it correctly.
If the issue is with the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing the broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you stop the draughts. When you aren't doing it right, replacing or repairing the handle could be expensive and can harm the door's frame as well as lock and frame, so it's worth spending some time to do it correctly.
Screwdriver: With the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle. It should be located on the inside of the back plate, normally covered by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. Be sure to not lose any of the internal components within the handle, like the plates or levers that are on the opposite side of the spindle. Ideally, keep them in the same place so you can replace them in the event of a need.
Then, with a second screwdriver loosen the screw that holds the handle to the spindle in the back. Once this is released, you'll be able to pull the handle off and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can find them online or at hardware stores). Screw it in place. Do not tighten the screw too much as this can damage the handle and the window frame.
Ensure the new handle is correctly fitted, then close and test the handle. It should function smoothly, and you will be able to open your window once more.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to ensure that your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they're not closing properly, you could experience draughts and damp in your home as and also affecting the efficiency of your home's energy usage. A local window company, like 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 more typical 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 that is a lock mechanism that is located in the window frame. The handle is connected to a rod in the centre that in turn activates mushroom-like locking cams, these locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open after the handle is turned, it is most likely the spindle has been damaged. This can be a problem that is frustrating.
There are ways to fix this issue. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. A professional locksmith can disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to remove the wheel portion in which the spindle is. This can be done without causing any damage to the handle or causing other damage to the frame of the window.
Once the wheel is removed, the technician will inspect the spindle to determine what has caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its individual parts and meticulously noting their general condition, as well as any particular areas of damage or excessive wear. This process is usually carried out by technicians in a clean and safe environment.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any dirt or debris that might be obstructing its normal function. After this the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, the dowel can be used that is the same size to the original. Then, he will drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This ensures that the new spindle is precisely matched to the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it might require replacement. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the window design is unusual, you will have to speak with a cabinet maker or woodworker who can make the exact component. Once the spindle has been installed, it can be attached to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle to the screws already in the frame. Once the new handle is seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.
