Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Perhaps the window or door handles aren't aligned properly or are hard to use.
You'll lose energy if your double-glazed doors don't function properly. This can also increase the risk of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for reasonable costs.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key is snapped into a lock. It also poses a security risk since the door may not be locked and make you vulnerable to burglars. There are fortunately simple fixes you can use to solve the problem and get your door functioning correctly.
Remember to remain calm. If you panic you may end up pushing the broken key piece further into the lock.
Spray WD-40, or another penetrating lubricant, into the lock. This will help the broken piece to be removed more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break off any pieces stuck. If you're lucky enough to have a small piece of the key that is sticking out, you can make use of a paperclip or other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and pull it out. Both of these methods work, but be careful not to push the broken piece of the key even further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you do not have any of these available, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend and create a hook. Finally, you can use a pair tweezers to grab and pull out the remaining pieces of broken keys.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. It's available at most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present inside the lock.
If none of these strategies are working you, it's time to call in locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems with uPVC door mechanisms and locks, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are simpler to use. Get a double glazing repair via our website, or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be a major security risk. Luckily, it's an easy repair for professional locksmiths to complete. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths will need to tap it. They can do this using a hammer or other tools, but the most effective way is to make use of a long match or a piece of wire. Then, position the end of the match or wire close to the keyway. After that, the locksmith can strike the lock and break it open. This is better than using a hammer, which can damage the lock.
The most frequent 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 like cast-iron and aluminum. When various metals are heated and cool at different rates, it may create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the head of the cylinder, leading to cracks.
Another possible cause for cracks in the cylinder is corrosion. If the cylinder head and the cylinder block aren't maintained properly, this could cause corrosion or rust and cause them to expand at more than they ought to. This can cause cracks over time.
If your uPVC window lock or door is brittle or requires lots of pressure to turn, it can be the result of many things. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment or the wear of the handle are typical reasons for this issue.
This is a straightforward and cost-effective fix that a majority of homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith is able to fix this problem within one hour of arriving at the property. window repairs Luton can replace the locking mechanisms, or change the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, depending on your specific needs. A skilled locksmith will always be able to advise you of the most cost-effective option for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which provide an additional layer of protection against burglars. This is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that wear out with age and use, so it's no surprise that they sometimes break. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the cause of the broken window handle lock and repair it correctly.
Fixing your broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal latch or the locking mechanism can increase the security of your uPVC door and prevent draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be very costly and may damage the door's frame and lock, so it's worth taking some time to make sure you do it correctly.
Screwdriver Open the window, loosen the screw holding the handle. It should be located on the inside face of the back plate, and is normally hidden by an aesthetically pleasing cover for the screw reasons. It is not recommended to lose any internal components of the handle, such as the plates and levers on either side. It is best to keep them in the same order so that you can replace them when needed.
Then, with an additional screwdriver, loosen the screw that holds the handle to the spindle in the back. Once the screw is loose, you can take the handle off and remove the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or at hardware stores). Screw it into the frame. Do not tighten the screw too much because this could damage the handle and the window frame.
Make sure the new handle is installed, then close and test the handle. It should function smoothly and you'll be able to open your window once again.
Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is closing properly when you're using the handle. If they're not cause damp and draughts inside your home as and also affecting the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be able to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they can shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break than the handle. This is most common in uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that operates a locking device in the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod that triggers the mushroom-shaped locking cams that secure the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism does not open when the handle has been turned, it is most likely the spindle is damaged. This could be a problem that is frustrating.
There are solutions to this issue. A professional locksmith will be able to quickly and efficiently repair this problem. They can take apart the window handle using a tool to remove the wheel component of the mechanism where the spindle goes. This is done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
Once the wheel is removed, the technician can inspect the spindle and determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle, and then examining every component, observing any wear or damage. This process is usually performed by technicians in a clean and safe environment.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any dirt or debris that might be hindering its normal function. The spindle could 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. He will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This ensures that the new spindle has precisely matched to the handle.
If the damaged spindle cannot be repaired, it might need to be replaced entirely. Home centres sell generic substitutes, but if your window design is unusual, you will need to contact an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can replicate the exact component. After the spindle is installed, it is fixed to the handle. Place the screw holes on the handle with the screws already in the frame. Once the new handle is in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.