Have your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned properly or are difficult to operate.
It is essential that the double glazed doors function smoothly, or else you will lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at a reasonable price.
Snapped Key
If a key is snapped off in a lock, it can be incredibly annoying. It's also potentially a security risk, as the door might not lock and make you open to intrusion. 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 could end up pushing the broken key further into the lock.
Next spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break off any pieces that are stuck. If you have a piece of the key that is stuck out and is not being removed, grab it with a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work well, however, be cautious not to push the damaged piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you don't happen to have any of these you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. 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 get the broken piece of the key out, try using a lock de-icer. It's usually found in most hardware stores. It is used to freeze any moisture or ice that might be inside the lock.
If double glazing repairs of these strategies appear to be working then it's probably the time to contact a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly resolve issues with uPVC door mechanisms and locks, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. Book a double glazing repair via our website, or give us a call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder is an extremely risky security issue. Luckily, it's an easy repair for professional locksmiths to complete. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder to fix it. They can do this using an hammer or another tools, but the most effective way is to use a long match or a piece of wire. Then, position the match's end or wire in the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock to crack it. This is much safer than using a heavy hammer, which could harm the lock.
Overheating is the main reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made from different metals, including cast iron and aluminum. Different metals can be heated and cool at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest of the cylinder.
Corrosion is a different cause of cylinder fractures. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained correctly they may corrosion or rust, which can cause them to expand more than anticipated. This can lead to cracks in the future.
If your uPVC door or window lock is brittle or requires a lot of pressure to turn, it could be due to a number of things. This issue could result from a defective locking mechanism, or misalignment and also a worn out handle.
It is a quick and affordable fix that the majority of double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith can usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at your property. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, depending on the specific requirements of your home. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They may suggest upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders which offer an additional layer of protection against burglars. It's a small price to pay for the security that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not a surprise that window handle locks can break. They have intricate mechanisms which deteriorate over time. If yours fails it may be difficult to pinpoint the cause of the issue. Make sure you fix it properly.
The issue could be related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, fixing the broken handle can improve your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you to stop drafts. It can be expensive to replace or repair your handle incorrectly and it can also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle with the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate. It is typically hidden by a screw cap for aesthetic reasons. Be sure not to lose any of the internal components inside the handle, for example the plates or levers on the opposite side of the spindle. Keep them in the same order to make it simpler to replace them in the event of a need.
Then, rotate the handle so it's at 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle that holds it to the internal spindle using another screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you can pull the handle out and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a brand new one, ensuring it's the same size as the old one (you can typically find these on the internet or at hardware stores) and screw it securely in the right place. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.
Make sure the new handle is installed, then close and test the handle. The hope is that it will function smoothly and you'll be able open your window again.
Make sure to check that your uPVC window is closing properly when you're using the handle. If they're not closing properly, you could experience draughts and damp in your home as and also affecting the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of the window frames to ensure they close correctly.
Broken Spindle
It is usually the case that the spindle within a handle breaks rather than the handle itself. This is particularly common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that acts as an locking device within the frame of the window. The handle is attached to a central rod that triggers the mushroom-shaped locking cams that lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned, it is likely that the spindle has broken This can be an extremely frustrating issue.
There are ways to fix this problem. A reputable locksmith can quickly and efficiently repair this problem. A professional locksmith will be able to disassemble the window's handle using a tool to remove the wheel portion in which the spindle is. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After the wheel has been removed, the technician will inspect the spindle and determine what has caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining each component, noting any damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians working in a clean and safe environment.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will help get rid of any dirt or debris which may be obstructing it from working normally. The spindle can then be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle he can use a dowel that is comparable in size to the original. Then, he will make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle is perfectly matched with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers offer generic replacements but if the style of your window is unique then you will need to contact a wood worker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact part for you. Once the new spindle is in place it can be fitted to the handle by lining up the screw holes in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the handle is securely set, you are able to operate your uPVC windows.
