Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Have you noticed that your upvc repairs near me window or door mechanism deteriorated? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to use.

You'll be wasting energy in the event that your double-glazed doors fail to perform as they should. This can also increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith will be able to fix your door lock at a reasonable cost.

Snapped Key

It can be a hassle when a key gets stuck into a lock. It's also potentially an issue for security, since the door may not lock and make you open to intrusion. There are a few quick fixes you can try to resolve the issue and get your door working again.

First, remember to stay calm. If you get scared and start playing around with your keys, you might just end up pushing the damaged piece of the key further into the lock, which could make the situation much worse.

Spray WD-40, or any other penetrating lubricant, into the lock. This will help the broken piece to be removed more easily. You can also use the screwdriver to break off any pieces that are stuck. If you're fortunate enough to have a little bit of the key visible and you want to remove it, use a paperclip or some other metal object that is thin to grab it and pull it out. Both methods work, but be cautious not to push the damaged piece of the key further into the keyway.

Some paperclips 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 handy, you can make use of needle-nose pliers that bend to create a hook. Finally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grasp and remove the remaining part of the broken key.

If you are unable to remove the broken piece of key then you can use a lock deicer. It is available in most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture that may be present inside the lock.

If none of these strategies appear to be working then it's probably time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly solve problems with uPVC door locks and mechanisms that have snapped keys as well as broken handles. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to make them more user-friendly. Book a double glazing repair through us online or give us a call to discuss your requirements.

Broken Cylinder

A broken cylinder can be an extremely risky security issue. A professional locksmith is able to fix the cylinder. A locksmith will have to tap the cylinder to repair it. They can do this with the hammer or any other tool, but the best way is to use a long match or piece of wire. Position the match or the wire's end in the keyway. After that, the locksmith will strike the lock and break it open. This is far better than using a heavy hammer, which could damage the lock.

Overheating is the primary reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can occur when the block and the cylinder head are made of different metals like cast-iron and aluminium. Different metals will heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand quicker than the rest.

Corrosion is a different cause of cylinder fractures. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained correctly they could rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand more than expected. As time passes, this may also lead to cracks.

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 an old handle are the most common causes of this issue.

Fortunately it is a simple and inexpensive fix for most double glazing owners. A professional locksmith will typically be able to resolve this problem within an hour of arriving at your home. Depending on the needs of your home they will be able to replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, and change the gearboxes. A skilled locksmith will always be able to advise you of the most cost-effective solution for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders that give you an extra security layer from burglars. It's a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.

Broken Handle

It's not a surprise that window handle locks could break. They have intricate mechanisms which deteriorate over time. It can be difficult to determine the cause of a broken window handle lock and then fix it properly.

The issue could be related to the locking mechanism inside or the latch, repairing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you to stop drafts. If you do not repair or replace the handle could be expensive and can cause damage to the door's frame and lock, so it's worth taking some time to do it correctly.

With the window open, loosen the screw that secures the handle by using the screwdriver. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate. It is typically concealed by a screw cap to enhance the appearance. You should not 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, rotate the handle so it's at 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle by using another screwdriver. Once the screw is free, you can pull the handle out and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a brand new one, ensuring it's the same length as the old one (you will typically find them on the internet or in hardware stores) and securely screw it into the right place. Don't over tighten the screw as this can cause damage to the handle and window frame.

Check that the new handle is correctly installed after which you can close and test the handle. Hopefully, it will work smoothly and you'll be able unlock your window.

While you're working on the handle, don't forget to make sure your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they don't close properly, double glazing you may experience damp or draughts in your home. It could also affect the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges of the window frames to ensure they close correctly.

Broken Spindle

It is often the case that the spindle in the handle breaks, rather than the handle itself. This is particularly common in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These types of windows require a handle which acts as a locking mechanism within the window frame. The handle is attached to a central rod which triggers a set of mushroom-like locking cams, these lock into window frame keeps. 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 solutions to this issue. A reputable locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively fix this issue. They will be able to remove the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel component of the mechanism, where the spindle goes. This is done without damaging the handle or causing other damage to the window frame.

After removing the wheel the technician can inspect the spindle and identify the reason for its break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its individual parts and meticulously noting their general condition, as in addition to any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. This process is usually performed by technicians in a clean and safe environment.

The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any debris or dirt that might be hindering its normal operation. The spindle may be replaced or repaired. If the technician is replacing the spindle, it is possible to use a dowel that is comparable in size to the original. The technician will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This ensures that the new spindle is a precise fit with the handle.

If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it could be necessary to replace it completely. Home centers offer generic replacements but if the design of your window is unique then it is necessary to contact a wood worker or cabinet maker who can replicate the exact part for you. Once the spindle has been installed, it is attached to the handle. The screw holes on the handle with the existing screws in the frame. Once the handle is securely seated, you can operate your uPVC windows.