Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Is your uPVC window or door mechanism not working properly? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
It is crucial that your double glazed doors function smoothly, or else you'll lose energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to repair your door lock at a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks in a lock, it could be extremely frustrating. It can also be a security risk in that it can leave you vulnerable to burglars if your door does not lock. Fortunately, there are simple fixes you can use to solve the problem and get your door operating correctly.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the damaged key piece further into the lock.
Then spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to help the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break pieces that might be blocking the way. If you happen to have a bit of the key hanging out and you want to remove it, make use of a paperclip, or any other thin metal object to grab it and then pull it out. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the broken key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you do not have any of these handy, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend them and create hooks. Finally, you can make use of a pair of tweezers to grasp and pull out the last piece of broken keys.
If you can't get the broken piece of key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It's available in many hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present in the lock.
If none of these methods seem to be helping you, it's the time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly fix problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also modify your double glazing door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. Request a repair for your double glazing with us online, or give us a phone call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder poses 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 a hammer or other tool, but the most efficient method is to make use of a long match or piece of wire. Then, put the match's tip or wire close to the keyway. The locksmith will then hit the lock to break it. This is more secure than using a hammer that could damage the lock.
window repair Kilburn for cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can occur when the cylinder block and head are made of various metals, like cast iron and aluminum. Different metals can be heated and cool at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest of the cylinder.
Another possible cause for cracks in cylinders is corrosion. When the cylinder head and the cylinder block aren't maintained properly, this could result in corrosion or rust and cause them to expand at a more than they ought to. Over time, this can cause 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. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment, or the wear of the handle are typical causes of this problem.
This is a simple and inexpensive fix that most homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith should be able to solve this issue within a matter of hours after arriving at your residence. Based on your requirements they will be able to replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to inform you of the most cost-effective option for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to high-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will add an extra layer of protection against 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 have complex mechanisms that become less effective with age and use, so it's not a surprise that they can break. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the cause of the broken window handle lock and repair it correctly.
Fixing the 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 right.
Screwdriver When the window is open, loosen the screw holding the handle. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, which is usually concealed by a screw cap to enhance the appearance. You should not be able to replace any internal parts of the handle like the levers and plates on either side. Ideally, keep them in the same order so that you can replace them in the event of a need.
Then, using an additional screwdriver loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle in the back. Once this is released, you'll be in a position to pull the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, making sure it is the same length as the old one (you can usually find these on the internet or at hardware stores) and screw it securely into the correct position. Do not overtighten the screw because this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.
Ensure the new handle is fitted, then close and test the handle. It should operate smoothly, and you will 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 don't cause damp and draughts inside your home, as well as compromising your home's energy efficiency. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure they can shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is often the case that the spindle within the handle breaks, rather than the handle itself. This is especially frequent in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These types of windows require a handle which is a lock mechanism that is located in the window frame. The handle is attached to a centre rod that triggers a set of cams that resemble mushrooms, which secure the frame of the window. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open after the handle is turned, it's likely the spindle is broken. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are solutions to this issue. A skilled locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. A good locksmith can disassemble the window's handle using a tool that removes the wheel from the area in which the spindle is. This can be done with no damage to the handle or the 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 then examining each component part, noting any damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically performed by technicians in a clean and safe environment.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will help get rid of any dirt or other debris that may be obstructing it from operating normally. After this the spindle can be repaired or replaced. If it is being replaced the technician can take an identical dowel size to the original and drill mating holes in both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.
If the damaged spindle cannot be repaired, it might require replacement completely. Home centres sell generic substitutes but if the window design is unique you'll have to speak with a cabinet maker or woodworker who can make the exact piece. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be fitted to the handle by lining up the holes for screws in the handle and the frame existing screws. Once the handle is securely seated, you can operate your uPVC windows.