Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Are your uPVC door or window mechanism not working properly? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.

It is essential that your double glazed doors work smoothly, otherwise you'll lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at a reasonable cost.

Snapped Key

It can be quite frustrating when a key gets stuck into the lock. It also poses a security risk since the door may not lock and could leave you open to intrusion. Fortunately, there are some simple fixes you can attempt to fix the problem and get your door working properly again.

Remember to remain calm. If you get scared and start doing a lot of fumbling around you could end up pushing the damaged piece of the key deeper into the lock, Window replacement near me thereby making the situation much worse.

Spray WD-40, or another penetrating oil, into the lock. This will allow the broken piece to be removed more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break up any pieces stuck that could be blocking the way. If you're fortunate enough to have a little bit of the key sticking out it, 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 are effective, but you need to be careful not to push the broken key further into the keyway.

Some paperclips have grooved edges that can work in a pinch as hook extractors, and some jigsaw blades are also suitable for this function. If you don't happen to have one of these tools you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Finally, you can make use of a pair of tweezers to grasp and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.

If you can't get the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. It is available at most hardware stores. It works by freezing any moisture or ice that may be inside the lock.

If none of these tricks seem to be helping you, it's time to call in locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly fix problems with upvc repairs door mechanisms and locks such as snapped keys and broken handles. They can also reconfigure your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. Request a repair for your double glazing via our website or give us a call to discuss your needs.

Broken Cylinder

A broken cylinder is an extremely risky security issue. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths will need to tap it. This can be accomplished with a hammer, or any other tool. However, the most effective method is to employ a wire or long match. The match or wire end near the keyway. After that, the locksmith can strike the lock and break it open. This is more secure than using a hammer, which can damage the lock.

Overheating is the most common reason behind cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the cylinder head and block are made of various metals, such as cast-iron or 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 head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.

Another reason that could cause cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained correctly they could corrosion or rust, which can cause them to expand faster than anticipated. In time, this could cause cracks.

If your uPVC door or window lock is stiff or requires a lot of pressure to turn, this can be the result of several things. A malfunctioning locking mechanism, misalignment, or the wear of the handle are typical causes of this problem.

Fortunately it's a simple and inexpensive fix for most homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith will usually solve this issue within an hour of arriving at the home. Based on your requirements they will be able to replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience will always be able advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to 3 Star security euro cylinders TS007 that give you an additional layer of security against burglars. This is a small cost 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 may break. They have complex mechanisms that wear out over time. If yours fails, it can be difficult to determine the source of the problem and make sure you fix it correctly.

Fixing the broken handle, whether it's the internal latch or locking mechanism can increase the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be expensive and could harm the door's frame as well as lock and frame, so it's worth spending the time to do it right.

With the window open then loosen the screw holding the handle with a screwdriver. It should be located on the inside face of the back plate, which is usually covered by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. Be sure to not damage any of the internal components within the handle, for example the plates or levers that are on either side of the spindle. It is best to keep them in the same order so that you can re-install them if needed.

Then, using another screwdriver, loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle at the back. Once this is removed, you should be able to pull the handle off and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can purchase them online or at hardware stores). Screw it into place. Do not overtighten the screw as this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.

Close the handle and try it. It should operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your window once again.

While you're working on the handle, make sure to check your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they're not closing properly then you may experience damp and draughts inside your home, as well as compromising the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on the frames of your windows to ensure that they shut correctly.

Broken Spindle

It is more common for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is particularly frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle that operates an locking device within the frame of the window. The handle is attached to a central rod that activates a series of locks that are shaped like mushrooms and secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned, it is likely the spindle has been damaged. This could be a frustrating issue.

There are solutions to this problem. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and efficiently solve the issue. They will be able to disassemble the window handle by using a tool that can remove the wheel portion of the mechanism, where the spindle is. This can be done with no damage to the handle or window frame.

After removing the wheel the technician can inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its individual parts and meticulously noting their general condition, as well as any specific 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 assists in removing any dirt or other debris that could be hindering its normal functioning. The spindle can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, it is possible to use a dowel that is comparable in size to the original. The technician will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This ensures that the new spindle is an exact fit with the handle.

If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it could be required to replace it completely. Home centres sell generic substitutes, but if your window replacement near me (additional reading) style is rare then you'll need to contact an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can replicate the exact part. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be positioned to the handle by line up the holes for screws in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the handle is firmly in place, you can use your uPVC windows.