Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Maybe the window or door handles aren't aligned properly 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 can also increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key snaps inside a lock. It's also potentially an issue for security, since the door may not be locked and leave you open to intrusion. 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 panic, you could end up pushing the broken key piece further into the lock.
Next spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to help the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break pieces that could be blocking the way. If you're lucky enough to have a small piece of the key left hanging out and you want to remove it, use a paperclip or some other metal object that is thin to grab it and pull it out. Both methods work well, however, be very careful not to push the broken piece of the key deeper into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors, and some Jigsaw blades can also be used for this use. If you don't have any of them handy, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend them and create hooks. Finally, you can use a pair of tweezers grab and pull out the remaining pieces of broken keys.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. It's usually found in most hardware stores, and it works by freezing any moisture or ice that may be in the lock.
If none of these methods are working then it's probably the time to contact locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also reconfigure your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. You can request a double-glazing repair online or contact us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder poses an immediate security risk. A locksmith professional can fix the cylinder. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder to repair it. They can do this using a hammer or other tool, but the best method is to make use of an extended match or piece of wire. Place the match or wire's end in the keyway. After that, the locksmith can hit the lock to break it open. This is superior to using a hammer, which can damage the lock.
The most frequent cause of cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can occur when the cylinder block and head are made of various metals, like cast iron and aluminum. Different metals can heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand quicker than the rest.
Another possible cause for cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained properly they may corrosion or rust, which can cause them to expand more than expected. Over time, this can also lead to cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle or requires lots of pressure to turn, this could be due to a number of things. This issue could be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment, as well as a worn-out handle.
This is a straightforward and cost-effective fix that a majority of double glazing owners can do. A professional locksmith should be able solve this problem within an hour after arriving at your residence. Depending on the needs of your home they will be able to replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and also change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will be able to provide you with a recommendation on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star TS007 euro cylinders that will give you an additional layer of security against burglars. It's a small amount 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 can break. They have intricate mechanisms that become less effective over time. It isn't easy to determine the reason behind the problem and repair it correctly.
If the issue is in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, repairing your broken handle can improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you stop draughts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing the handle could be expensive and could harm the door's frame as well as lock It is therefore worth taking some time to do it correctly.
Screwdriver: With the window open remove the screw that holds the handle. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, usually covered by the cap of the screw for aesthetic reasons. Be careful not to lose any internal components within the handle, for example the plates or levers that are on the opposite side of the spindle. Keep them in the same order to make it easier to replace them if needed.
Then, with a second screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle to the spindle on the back. Once the screw is free, you can take the handle off and take the broken spindle out. 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 into the frame. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Check that the new handle is correctly installed after which you can close and test the handle. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able unlock your window.
While you're working on the handle, be sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are shut correctly. If they don't close properly, you could 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 adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is more common for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is particularly common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle to operate an electronic locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is connected to a central rod that activates a series of mushroom-shaped locking cams that secure the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open after the handle has been turned, it's likely the spindle is broken. This can be a problem that is frustrating.
Luckily there are steps that can be taken to remedy this situation. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and efficiently solve the issue. A good locksmith will be able disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool that removes the wheel part that houses the spindle. double glazing repairs can be done without damaging the handle or causing any other damage to the frame of the window.
After removing the wheel, the technician can inspect the spindle and identify what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle, and then examining each component, noting any damage or excessive wear. This procedure is usually carried out in a clean, well-lit room by highly 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 function. The spindle can be replaced or repaired. If it is replaced, the technician will need the dowel that is similar in size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes in both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the new spindle has precisely matched to the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers sell generic replacements, but If the style of your window is unusual then you will need to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact part for you. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be positioned to the handle by line up the screw holes in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.
