Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

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

It's important that your double-glazed doors function smoothly, or else you'll lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for an affordable cost.

Snapped Key

If a key is snapped off in a lock, it can be extremely frustrating. It can also be a security issue, as it may leave you vulnerable to a burglar if the door does not lock. There are a few easy fixes you can try to repair the issue and get your door working again.

First, remember to stay calm. If you get scared and start playing around with your keys you may end up pushing the damaged piece of the key further into the lock, making the situation much worse.

Next spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break off any pieces that are stuck. If you're lucky enough to have a bit of the key that is sticking out and you want to remove it, make use of a paperclip, or any other metal object that is thin to grab it and pull it out. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the broken key further into the keyway.

Some paperclips have grooved edges that could be used as a hook extractor and some Jigsaw blades also work for this purpose. If you don't have any of these you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grasp and pull out the remaining part of the broken key.

If you are unable to remove the broken piece of key, use a lock deicer. 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 solutions work, it may be time to consult a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can solve problems like broken handles or snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are simpler to operate. You can request repairs to your double-glazing online or call us to discuss your needs.

Broken Cylinder

A damaged cylinder could pose an extremely risky security issue. Luckily, it's an easy repair for an expert locksmith to complete. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths will need to tap it. They can do this with the hammer or any other tool, but the best method is to employ an extended match or piece of wire. The match or wire end near the keyway. After that, the locksmith can strike the lock to crack it open. This is much safer than using a hammer that could cause damage to the lock.

The most frequent cause of cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can occur when the block and the cylinder head are made of various metals such as cast-iron and aluminum. Different metals can heat up and cool down at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand quicker than the rest of the cylinder.

Corrosion is a different cause of cracks in the cylinder. If the cylinder head as well as the cylinder block aren't maintained properly, this could result in corrosion or rust, which may cause them to expand double glazing at a a higher rate than they should. As time passes, this may also cause cracks.

If your uPVC window lock or door is brittle or requires lots of pressure to turn, this could be due to many things. This issue could be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment as well as a worn-out handle.

Fortunately, this is an easy and cost-effective fix for the majority of homeowners with double glazing. A professional locksmith can usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at the home. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles and replace the gearboxes, based on your specific needs. 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 give you an extra security layer from burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC doors are safe.

Broken Handle

Window handle locks are complex mechanisms that become less effective with time and usage, so it's no surprise that they sometimes break. If yours breaks, it can be difficult to determine the source of the issue. Make sure that you repair it correctly.

If the issue is related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, fixing the broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing (read this post from ivimall.com) door's security as well as help you to stop draughts. It could be costly to repair or replace the handle in a way that isn't done correctly. It can also harm the frame and the lock of your door.

With the window open and the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle with a screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the back plate, and is normally hidden by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. Be sure not to lose any internal parts within the handle, for example the plates or levers on the opposite side of the spindle. Keep them in the same order so that it is easier to replace if necessary.

Then, with another screwdriver take the screw off that holds the handle to the spindle at the back. Once the screw is loose, remove the handle and remove the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, making sure it's the same length (you can purchase them online or at hardware stores). Screw it into place. Do not overtighten the screw because this could damage the handle and the window frame.

Close the handle and try it. It should work smoothly and you'll be able to open your windows after a few times.

While you're working on the handle, don't forget to ensure that 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 more likely for double glazing the spindle to break than the handle. This is particularly frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle that operates a locking device in the window frame. The handle is attached a central rod which activates locks that are shaped like mushrooms and secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open after the handle is turned, it's likely the spindle is broken. This can be a frustrating problem.

There are ways to fix this issue. A reputable locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively address this issue. A professional locksmith will be able to disassemble the window's handle using a tool that removes the wheel part where the spindle is located. This can be done without damage to the handle or window frame.

After removing the wheel the technician will inspect the spindle and determine the reason for its break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining each component part, noting any wear or damage. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians in a clean environment.

The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This assists in removing any dirt or other debris that might be obstructing its normal function. Following this, the spindle could be repaired or replaced. If it's being replaced, the technician can take an identical dowel size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes in both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle will fit perfectly with the handle.

If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it could be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers can sell generic replacements but if the window design is unusual you'll require contacting an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can replicate the exact part. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be positioned to the handle by lining up the holes for screws in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the handle is firmly seated, you can operate your uPVC windows.