Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism not working properly? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows and doors are not aligned properly or are difficult to use.
You will lose energy when your double-glazed doors do not function properly. This also increases the likelihood of burglaries. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off inside a lock, it can be extremely frustrating. It could also be a security issue in that it can expose you to a burglar if the door is not locked. Fortunately, there are simple fixes you can use to solve the problem and get your door operating properly again.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the damaged 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 break off any pieces stuck. If you're lucky enough to have a bit of the key left hanging out, 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 methods work, but be very careful not to push the damaged piece of the key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can work in a pinch to extract hooks and Jigsaw blades can also be used for this function. If you don't happen to have any of these items you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grasp and pull out the last part of the broken key.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It's available at most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture present inside the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it could be time to consult a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly solve problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms so that they are simpler to operate. Request a repair for your double glazing with us online, or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be an extremely risky security issue. A locksmith professional can fix the cylinder. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. They can do this with a hammer or other tool, but the most efficient method is to use an extended match or piece of wire. Position the match or the wire's end in the keyway. After that, the locksmith can hit the lock to break it open. This is better than using a hammer, which can damage the lock.
The most frequent cause for cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can occur when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made of various metals, like cast iron and aluminum. Different metals will heat up and cool off at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest.
Another possible cause of cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the cylinder head as well as the block of the cylinder are not maintained properly, this could result in corrosion or rust, which may cause them to expand at more than they should. In time, this could also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires a lot more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of reasons. This issue could be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment, as well as a worn-out handle.
It is a quick and affordable fix that the majority of double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith should be able to resolve this problem within an hour of arriving at your home. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, based on your specific needs. A locksmith with experience will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will give you an additional layer of protection against burglars. This is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks could break. They have intricate mechanisms that wear out over time. It can be difficult to determine the reason behind the broken window handle lock and then fix it properly.
Fixing your broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal locking mechanism or latch, will improve the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing your handle can be expensive and can cause damage to the door's frame and lock and frame, so it's worth spending some time to make sure you do it right.
Screwdriver Open the window and the screw loose, loosen the handle. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, which is usually covered by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic purposes. Be sure to not lose any of the internal parts within the handle, for example the plates or levers that are on the opposite side of the spindle. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is simpler to replace them in the event of a need.
Then, rotate the handle so it's at 90 degrees to the window frame and loosen the screw on the back of the handle that holds it to the internal spindle with another screwdriver. Once the screw is free, you can pull the handle out and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a brand new spindle, making sure it's the same length (you can purchase them online or in hardware stores). Securely screw it into place. Do not tighten the screw too much as this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Make sure the new handle is fitted after which you can close and test the handle. It should work smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows once more.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to check your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they're not closing 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 of your window frames to ensure that they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is usually the case that the spindle inside the handle breaks, rather than the handle itself. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as an electronic locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is connected to a centre rod that triggers a set of mushroom-like locking cams, these lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned, it is most likely the spindle has been damaged. This can be a frustrating issue.
Luckily, there are options to remedy this situation. A reputable locksmith can quickly and effectively address this issue. A reputable locksmith will be able to disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to remove the wheel from the area in which the spindle is. This can be done without damage to the handle or window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician can inspect the spindle to determine the cause of the break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining each component, noting any damage or excessive wear. double glazing repair is typically performed 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 might be obstructing its normal operation. The spindle can then be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, he can use a dowel that is the same size to the original. Then, he will make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle is an exact fit with the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired it may need to be replaced entirely. Home centers sell generic replacements, but if your window design is unusual you'll need to contact an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can replicate the exact part. Once the new spindle is in place it can be attached to the handle by line up the holes for screws in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the new handle is seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.
