Why We Why We Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs (And You Should Too!)
Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows and doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use. It is essential that your double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you'll lose energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at reasonable costs. Snapped Key When a key snaps off inside a lock, it could be extremely difficult. It also poses a security risk, as the door may not be locked and could leave you vulnerable to intruders. Fortunately, there are quick fixes that you can attempt to fix the issue and get your door operating correctly. The first step is to remain calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock. Then, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece slip out more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break off any pieces that are stuck. If you have a chunk of the key that's stuck then grab it using a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work well, however, be very careful not to push the broken piece of the key even further into the keyway. double glazing window repairs have grooved edges which can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades also work well for this. If you don't have any of these items you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grip and pull out the last bit of the broken key. If you cannot remove the broken piece of key Use a lock deicer. It's available at most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present within the lock. If none of these methods appear to be working then it's probably the time to contact 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 alter your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. Get a double glazing repair via our website, or give us a call to discuss your needs. Broken Cylinder A broken cylinder is an immediate security risk. A locksmith professional can fix the cylinder. A locksmith must tap the cylinder in order to repair it. This can be done using a hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to make use of a wire or a long match. Then, put the match's end or wire near the keyway. The locksmith can then strike the lock to break it. This is superior to using the hammer, which could damage the lock. Overheating is the main cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can happen when the cylinder head and block are made of different metals such as cast-iron and aluminum. Different metals can heat up and cool off at different rates. This could cause localized hotspots to expand faster than the rest. Corrosion is a different reason for cracks in the cylinder. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained in a timely manner they could corrosion or rust, which can cause them to expand faster than they would normally. This could lead to cracks as time passes. If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of causes. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment, or a worn handle are common causes of this problem. This is a straightforward and affordable fix that the majority of homeowners with double glazing can perform. A professional locksmith will usually fix this problem within one hour of arriving at your property. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and change the gearboxes, depending on your particular requirements. A skilled locksmith will always be able to provide you with a recommendation on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to 3 Star security Euro cylinders, TS007, that will provide an extra layer of security against burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the security that comes from knowing your uPVC doors are safe. Broken Handle It's not surprising that window handle locks may break. They have intricate mechanisms that wear out over time. If yours is damaged it may be difficult to identify the cause of the issue and make sure you fix it properly. Fixing the broken handle, whether it's an internal locking mechanism or latch can increase the security of your uPVC door and prevent draughts. When you aren't doing it right, replacing or repairing the handle could be costly and may harm the door's frame as well as lock, so it's worth taking the time to do it right. With the window in the open position, loosen the screw that secures the handle by using the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, usually concealed by a screw cap for aesthetic reasons. You should not lose any internal components 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 them if needed. Next, turn the handle so it's at 90 degrees to the window frame. Finally, loosen the screw on the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle by using another screwdriver. Once this is released, you'll be able to pull the handle off and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or at hardware stores). Screw it into place. Be careful not to tighten too much because this could damage the handle or the window frame. Close the handle and test it. It should function smoothly and you'll be able open your window once again. While you're working on the handle, be sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they don't close correctly, you could encounter damp or draughts inside your home. It could also affect the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on the window frames to ensure that they close correctly. Broken Spindle It is more typical for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is most common in uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These types of windows require a handle which operates a locking mechanism in the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod which triggers a set of mushroom-like locking cams, these secure the frame of the window. If the dead latch mechanism does not open after the handle has been turned, it is likely the spindle is damaged. This could be a problem that is frustrating. There are ways to fix this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and effectively address this problem. A reputable locksmith can disassemble the window's handle using a tool that removes the wheel from the area where the spindle is located. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame. After removing the wheel, the technician can examine the spindle to determine the reason for its break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its component components and carefully observing their general condition as well as any particular areas of damage or excessive wear. The process is done in a clean room by skilled technicians. The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This assists in removing any dirt or other debris that might be hindering its normal function. The spindle could be replaced or repaired. If the technician is replacing the spindle, the dowel can be used that is the same size to the original. Then, he will drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This will ensure that the new spindle is an exact fit with the handle. If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centres sell generic substitutes however if your window style is rare, you will need to contact an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can recreate the exact piece. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be fitted to the handle by lining up the screw holes in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.