An EasyToFollow Guide To Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Is your uPVC door or window mechanism not working properly? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows and doors are not aligned properly or are difficult to operate.
It is crucial that your double-glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the likelihood of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at a reasonable price.
Snapped Key
If a key breaks within a lock, it could be incredibly frustrating. This can also be a security problem because it could leave you vulnerable to an intruder if the door does not lock. Fortunately, there are some simple fixes you can use to solve the problem and get your door operating properly again.
Keep calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the broken key piece further into the lock.
Next spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to make the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break any pieces stuck. If you have a piece of the key stuck out then grab it using a paperclip or other thin metal object and pull it. Both methods are effective, but you need to be careful not to push the broken key piece further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can work in a pinch as hook extractors, and some Jigsaw blades also work for this function. If you don't have one of these tools you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. You can also use a pair of tweezers grab and pull out the last piece of broken keys.
If you cannot remove the broken key piece then you can use a lock deicer. It's available at most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present inside the lock.
If none of these solutions work, it could be time to consult a locksmith. Fitlocks specialists are able to quickly solve problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are simpler to use. Get a double glazing repair via our website or give us a call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A broken cylinder can be a serious security risk. It's a good thing that it's a simple repair for an expert locksmith to complete. A locksmith must tap the cylinder in order to fix it. This can be done using a hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to use a wire or a long match. Then, place the match's tip or wire in the keyway. After this, the locksmith can strike the lock and break it open. This is far better than using a heavy hammer, which could cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the most common reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can happen when the cylinder block and cylinder head are made of different metals, like cast iron and aluminium. Different metals can heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest.
Another possible cause for cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the cylinder head and cylinder block are not maintained properly, this could cause corrosion or rust, which may cause them to expand at greater rates than they should. This can cause cracks as time passes.
If your uPVC door or window lock is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, it can be the result of several things. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment, or the wear of the handle are typical reasons for this issue.
Fortunately it is a simple and affordable fix for the majority of homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith will typically be able to resolve the issue within an hour of arriving at your home. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and change the gearboxes, depending on your specific needs. A skilled locksmith will always be able to provide you with a recommendation on the most cost-effective solutions for your home. They can even suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star Euro cylinders, TS007, that will provide an extra layer of protection against burglars. It's a small amount to pay for the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secure.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that wear out with age and use, so it's not a surprise that they can break. If yours fails, it can be difficult to determine the source of the issue. Make sure that you repair it correctly.
The issue could be related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, fixing your broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you stop the draughts. Incorrectly repairing or replacing your handle can be very costly and may harm the door's frame as well as lock and frame, so it's worth spending the time to do it right.
With the window in the open position and the window open, loosen the screw that secures the handle with a screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, which is usually hidden by a screw cap to enhance the appearance. It is important to not be able to replace any internal parts of the handle, such as the levers and plates on either side. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is easier to replace if necessary.
Then, with another screwdriver, loosen the screw that connects the handle to the spindle in the back. Once the screw is free, you can remove the handle and remove the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, ensuring it is the same length as the old one (you can usually find these online or in hardware stores) and then securely screw it in place. Be careful not to overtighten because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Ensure the new handle is installed Close the window and test the handle. It should work smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows once again.
Don't forget to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly while you're working with the handle. If they're not then you may experience draughts and damp in your home, as well as compromising your home's energy efficiency. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure that they close properly.
Broken Spindle
It is usually the case that the spindle inside the handle breaks, rather than the handle itself. This is particularly common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These windows require a handle that operates an electronic locking mechanism within the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a centre rod that triggers a set of mushroom-like locking cams, these locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open when the handle is turned it is possible that the spindle has been damaged and this could be an extremely frustrating issue.
There are ways to fix this problem. A reputable locksmith can swiftly and effectively fix the issue. A good locksmith can disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to take out the wheel portion 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 can inspect the spindle and identify the cause of the break. This involves disassembling the spindle, and then examining every component, observing any damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians in a clean environment.
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 can take a dowel of a similar size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes into both parts of the spindle. This will ensure that the new spindle is a precise fit with the handle.
If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it might need to be replaced entirely. Home centers offer generic replacements, but If the style of your window is rare then it will be necessary to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can duplicate the exact part for you. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be attached to the handle by line up the holes for screws in the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the handle is securely in place, you can use your uPVC windows.