Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Is your uPVC door or window mechanism faulty? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.

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

Snapped Key

It can be quite frustrating when a key snaps inside the lock. It's also potentially an issue for security, since the door might not lock and leave you vulnerable to intruders. There are fortunately simple fixes you can attempt to fix the issue and get your door functioning properly once more.

The first step is 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 even further into the lock, which could make the situation even more difficult.

Spray WD-40, or another penetrating oil, into the lock. This will assist the broken piece emerge more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break up any pieces stuck that might be blocking the way. If you're fortunate enough to have a bit of the key left sticking out it, you can make use of a paperclip or other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and pull it out. Both methods are effective, but you need to be careful not to push the damaged key piece 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 items then you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grasp and remove the remaining part of the broken key.

If you are unable to get the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. It's usually available at most hardware stores, and it works by freezing any water or ice that could be inside the lock.

If none of these solutions work, it might be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks specialists are able to quickly resolve issues with uPVC door mechanisms and locks such as snapped keys and broken handles. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. Book a double glazing repair with us online or give us a call to discuss your needs.

Broken Cylinder

A damaged cylinder poses a serious security threat. It's fortunately a simple repair for professional locksmiths to complete. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder in order to fix it. This can be done with a hammer, or any other tool. The best method is to make use of a wire or a long match. Then, position the end of the match or wire in the keyway. The locksmith will then hit the lock to crack it. This is much better than using a hammer, which could damage the lock.

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

Corrosion is a different reason for cracks in the cylinder. If the cylinder head and the block of the cylinder are not properly maintained, this can result in corrosion or rust, which may cause them to expand at more than they should. This could lead to cracks over time.

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

Fortunately it is a simple and affordable fix for the majority of homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith will typically be able to solve this problem within an hour of arriving at your property. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and change the gearboxes, depending on the specific requirements of your home. A professional locksmith will be able to advise you of the most cost-effective option for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that give you an extra security layer from burglars. It's a small price to pay for the security that comes from knowing your uPVC doors are safe.

Broken Handle

Window handle locks are complex mechanisms that wear out as time passes and usage, so it's no surprise that they sometimes break. If yours breaks, it can be difficult to pinpoint the cause of the problem and make sure you fix it properly.

Whether the problem is with the internal locking mechanism or the latch, fixing your broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you stop drafts. It is 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, loosen the screw holding the handle using the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside face of the back plate, normally covered by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. It is not recommended to lose any internal parts of the handle such as the levers and plates on either side. Keep them in the same order so that it is easier to replace if necessary.

Then, rotate the handle to make it 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle that holds it to the internal spindle using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you should be in a position to pull the handle off and take off the damaged spindle. Replace this with a new one, making sure it's the same size as the old one (you can usually find these online or in hardware stores) and screw it securely into place. Be careful not to tighten too much because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.

Close the handle and try it. It should work smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.

Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is closing properly while you're working with the handle. If they're not closing properly cause draughts and damp in your home, as in addition to compromising the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on the window frames to ensure that they close properly.

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 that acts as an electronic locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is attached to 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 is not able to open when the handle is turned, it is possible that the spindle is broken and this could be a very frustrating issue.

There are solutions to this problem. A professional locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively address this issue. They will be able to take apart the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel component of the mechanism, where the spindle goes. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.

Once the wheel has been removed, the technician can inspect the spindle to determine what has caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle, and doors then examining each component, noting any wear or damage. This procedure is usually done in a clean environment by skilled technicians.

The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This assists in removing any dirt or other debris that might be obstructing its normal operation. After that the spindle could 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. Then, he will drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle has a precise fit with the handle.

If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be required to replace it completely. Home centers sell generic replacements but if the style of your window is unique then you will need to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can make the exact part for you. Once the spindle has been installed, it is fixed to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle to the existing screws in the frame. Once the handle is firmly in place, you can use your upvc door repairs near me windows.