Three Reasons Why The Reasons For Your Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs Is Broken (And How To Fix It)
Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.
You will lose energy when your double-glazed doors do not function properly. This also increases the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock for an affordable cost.
Snapped Key
When a key snaps off in a lock, it could be extremely annoying. This can also be a security issue because it could make you vulnerable to burglars if your door is not locked. Fortunately, there are some quick fixes you can attempt to fix the issue and get your door operating properly again.
Be sure to remain calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.
Spray WD-40, or another penetrating lubricant, into the lock. This will assist the broken piece emerge more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break off any pieces stuck. If you have a piece of the key that's stuck and is not being removed, grab it with a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the broken key 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 don't have any of these available, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend them and create hooks. Finally, you can make use of a pair of tweezers to grab and remove the last bit of the broken keys.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of the key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It's available in many hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present inside the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it might be time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly resolve issues with uPVC door mechanisms and locks that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also alter the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are more easy to operate. You can request repairs to your double-glazing online or call us to discuss your needs.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose an extremely risky security issue. It's fortunately a simple repair for an expert locksmith to complete. A locksmith must tap the cylinder in order to repair it. This can be done using a hammer, or any other tool. However, the most effective method is to use a wire or a long match. Then, place the end of the match or wire in the keyway. After that, the locksmith will hit the lock to break it open. This is superior to using a hammer that could cause damage to the lock.
The most frequent cause of cylinder head cracks is overheating. This can occur when the block and cylinder head are made from different metals like cast-iron and aluminium. 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.
Corrosion is another possible cause of cylinder fractures. If the head and block of a cylinder are not maintained correctly they may corrosion or rust and cause them to expand more than expected. Over time, this can also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window lock or door is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, this can be the result of many things. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment or an old handle are the most common reasons for this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and inexpensive fix for most double glazing owners. window repairs Dorking can usually fix this problem within one hour of arriving at the property. Depending on your needs, they can replace the locking mechanism, change the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will be able to advise you of the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to 3 Star security Euro cylinders, TS007, that will add an extra layer of protection against burglars. It's a small amount to get the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks may break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms that become less effective over time. If yours is damaged it's difficult to pinpoint the cause of the problem and make sure that you repair it correctly.
Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's the internal locking mechanism or latch will increase the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. It is costly to repair or replace the handle in a way that isn't done correctly. It could also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
Screwdriver: With the window open, loosen the screw holding the handle. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, which is usually covered by an eye-catching cap to conceal it to enhance the appearance. Be careful not to lose any of the internal components within the handle, such as the plates or levers on either side of the spindle. Ideally, keep these in the same place so you can re-install them when needed.
Then, using an additional screwdriver take the screw off that connects the handle to the spindle in the back. Once the screw is free, you can pull the handle out and remove the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can purchase them online or in hardware stores). Securely screw it in place. Be careful not to tighten too much because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Make sure the new handle is correctly fitted after which you can close and test the handle. It is likely that it will operate smoothly and you'll be able open your window once more.
Make sure to check that your uPVC window is closing properly when you're working with the handle. If they aren't closing properly, you may experience draughts or damp in your home. You could also compromise the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, like Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames so they are able to shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is quite common that the spindle in the handle breaks, rather than the handle itself. This is especially common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle which is a lock mechanism that is located in the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod which is then activated by a series of mushroom-like locking cams, these secure the frame of the window. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open after the handle is turned, it is likely the spindle has been damaged. This can be a frustrating problem.
Luckily there are steps that can be taken to rectify this issue. A skilled locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. They can take apart the window handle using a tool that can remove the wheel portion of the mechanism, where the spindle is. This is done without damage to the handle or window frame.
After removing the wheel the technician will inspect the spindle to determine the cause of the break. This involves disassembling the spindle and inspecting every component, observing any wear or damage. The process is performed in a clean room by highly skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any debris or dirt that may be obstructing it from functioning normally. The spindle may be repaired or replaced. If it is being replaced the technician could use an identical dowel size to the one used in the first 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 need to be replaced entirely. Home centers can sell generic replacements, but if your window design is unique then you'll need to contact an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can replicate the exact part. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be positioned to the handle by lining up the holes for screws in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the new handle is seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.