Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Has your uPVC window or door mechanism become faulty? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't able to connect correctly or are difficult to use.

It is crucial that your double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at reasonable costs.

Snapped Key

If a key breaks within the lock, it can be incredibly frustrating. It could also be a security risk since the door might not lock and could leave you open to intrusion. Fortunately, there are quick fixes that you can use to solve the problem and get your door working properly again.

First, remember to stay calm. If you get scared and start poking around wildly you could end up pushing the broken piece of the key even further into the lock, making the situation worse.

Spray WD-40, or another penetrating lubricant into the lock. This will allow the broken piece to emerge more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break pieces that could be hindering the flow. If you have a chunk of the key stuck, grab it with a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the damaged key piece further into the keyway.

Some paperclips have grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you don't have any of these handy, you can make use of needle-nose pliers to bend and create hooks. You can also use a pair tweezers to grab and remove the last piece of broken keys.

If you are unable to remove the broken piece of key Use a lock deicer. It is available at most hardware stores. It is used to freeze any moisture or ice that may be in the lock.

If none of these methods appear to be working then it's probably time to call in a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly solve problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms so that they are easier to operate. Book a double glazing repair via our website or give us a call to discuss your needs.

Broken Cylinder

A damaged cylinder could pose a major security risk. A professional locksmith is able to repair the cylinder. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder in order to fix it. This can be accomplished with a hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to employ a wire or long match. Then, position the match's tip or wire near the keyway. The locksmith can strike the lock and break it open. This is much safer than using a heavy hammer that could cause damage to the lock.

The most frequent cause for cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can occur when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made of various metals, like cast iron and aluminum. When various metals are heated and cool at different rates, it could cause localised hotspots that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, thus leading to cracks.

Corrosion is another possible reason for fractures in cylinders. When the cylinder head and cylinder block are not properly maintained, it can result in corrosion or double glazing repair rust and cause them to expand at a a higher rate than they should. In time, this could also lead to cracks.

If your uPVC window or door lock is rigid and requires more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety of causes. This can be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism, or misalignment or a worn-out handle.

It is a quick and affordable fix that the majority of homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith will typically be able to solve the issue within an hour of arriving at your property. Depending on the needs of your home, they can replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will be able to provide you with a recommendation of the most cost-effective option for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to high-security 3 Star TS007 euro cylinders that will add an extra layer of security against burglars. It's a small price to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secure.

Broken Handle

Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that deteriorate as time passes and use, so it's no surprise that they sometimes break. It isn't easy to determine the reason for the problem and fix it correctly.

Repairing your damaged handle, regardless of whether it's the internal latch or locking mechanism, will improve the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. When you aren't doing it right, replacing or repairing your handle can be expensive and can damage the door's frame and lock It is therefore worth taking some time to do it right.

With the window open and the window open, loosen the screw that secures the handle with the screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, usually hidden by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic purposes. It is not recommended to be able to replace any internal parts of the handle like the levers and plates on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same order so you can replace them in the event of a need.

Then, using another screwdriver, loosen the screw that holds the handle to the spindle in the back. Once the screw is removed, you should be capable of pulling the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new one, making sure it's the same length as the previous one (you can typically find these online or in hardware stores) and securely screw it into place. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could damage the handle or the window frame.

Make sure the new handle is correctly fitted, then close and test the handle. It should operate smoothly and you'll be able to open your windows once again.

Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're using the handle. If they don't then you may experience draughts and damp in your home as and also affecting your home's energy efficiency. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges of the window frames to ensure they close correctly.

Broken Spindle

It is quite common 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 operates a locking device in the frame of the window. The handle is attached a central rod that triggers the mushroom-shaped locking cams that secure into the frame of the window keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle is turned, it is likely that the spindle is broken and this could be a frustrating problem.

Fortunately there are ways to remedy this situation. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. They can disassemble the window handle by using a tool that removes the wheel part of the mechanism where the spindle goes. This can be done with no damage to the handle or window frame.

After removing the wheel, the technician can inspect the spindle and identify what caused it to break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its constituent components and carefully observing their general condition, as well as any specific areas of wear or damage. This process is usually performed by technicians in a clean environment.

Next, clean the damaged spindle. This will help get rid of any debris or dirt that might be preventing it from operating normally. The spindle may be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, the dowel can be used that is comparable in size to the original. Then, he will drill holes that are identical to 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 required to replace it completely. Home centers can sell generic replacements, but if your window style is rare you'll need to contact an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can replicate the exact piece. Once the new spindle is in place it can be fitted to the handle by lining up the holes for screws in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the handle is securely seated, you can operate your upvc window repairs windows.