double glazing window repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Maybe the handles on your uPVC windows or doors are not aligned properly or are difficult to operate.
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 an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key is snapped inside the lock. This can also be a security problem in that it can expose you to burglars if your door does not lock. There are a couple of quick fixes you can try to fix the problem and make your door work again.
First, remember to stay calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the broken key piece further into the lock.
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 a screwdriver to break off any pieces stuck. If you're lucky enough to have a small piece of the key left visible, you can use a paperclip or some other metal object with a thin surface to grab it and pull it out. Both methods work, but be cautious not to push the broken piece of the key deeper into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades are also well for this. If you do not have any of these available, you can use needle-nose pliers to bend and create hooks. Finally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grasp and remove the remaining part of the broken key.
If you cannot remove the broken piece of key then you can use a lock deicer. It's available in many hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture that may be present inside the lock.
If none of these solutions seem to work, it may be time to contact a locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly solve problems like broken handles and broken keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are simpler to use. You can request repairs to your double-glazing online or contact us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder could pose a serious security risk. A locksmith professional can fix the cylinder. To repair the cylinder, a locksmith will need to tap it. They can do this using a hammer or other tool, but the most efficient way is to use a long match or a piece of wire. Then, position the match's end or wire near the keyway. The locksmith will strike the lock and break it open. This is much safer than using a hammer that could cause damage to the lock.
The most common cause of cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can occur when the cylinder head and block are made from different metals, such as cast-iron or aluminum. Different metals can heat up and cool off at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand faster than the rest.
Corrosion is a different reason for fractures in cylinders. If the cylinder block and head are not maintained correctly they may rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand faster than they would normally. Over time, this can cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff and requires a lot more pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of causes. This issue could be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment, as well as a worn-out handle.
This is a straightforward and affordable fix that the majority of double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith will usually solve the issue within one hour of arriving at your property. Depending on the needs of your home they will be able to replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, or change the gearboxes. A professional locksmith will be able to provide you with a recommendation of the most cost-effective option for your home. They can even recommend upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star euro cylinders TS007 that give you an additional layer of security against burglars. This is a small cost to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have complex mechanisms that wear out as time passes and use, so it's not a surprise they occasionally break. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the reason for the broken window handle lock and then fix it properly.
Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's an internal latch or locking mechanism, will improve the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. It could be costly to repair or replace your handle if it is not done correctly and can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window in the open position then loosen the screw holding the handle with a screwdriver. This should be located on the inside of the back plate, which is usually hidden by a screw cover for aesthetic reasons. You should not lose any internal parts of the handle such as the levers and plates on either side. Keep them in the same order so that it is simpler to replace them in the event of a need.
Then, using a second screwdriver loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle on the back. Once the screw is removed, you should be in a position to pull the handle away and pull off the damaged spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, making sure it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or in hardware stores). Screw it into place. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Make sure the new handle is correctly installed, then close and test the handle. It should work smoothly, and you will be able to open your window after a few times.
Make sure to check that your uPVC window is shut properly when you're using the handle. If they're not closing properly, you could experience damp or draughts in your home. Also, you could be compromising 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 shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is quite common that the spindle in the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is particularly typical in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These windows require a handle that is a lock mechanism that is located in the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a rod in the centre that in turn activates cams that look like mushrooms, they locks are inserted into the window frame. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle is turned, it is possible that the spindle has broken This can be an extremely frustrating issue.
There are solutions to this issue. A good locksmith will be able to quickly and efficiently repair this issue. A good locksmith will be able disassemble the window's handle using a tool to take out the wheel portion that houses the spindle. This can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician can examine the spindle and determine the reason for its break. This involves disassembling the spindle and examining every component, observing any wear or damage. This procedure is typically performed by technicians in a clean environment.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this assists in removing any dirt or other debris that might be obstructing its normal functioning. Following this the spindle is cleaned, it can be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle, it is possible to use a dowel that is the same size to the original. The technician will then drill holes that are identical to both pieces. This ensures that the new spindle has a precise fit with the handle.
If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it might need to be replaced entirely. Home centers sell generic replacements however if your window design is unusual then you'll require contacting an expert in woodworking or cabinet making who can make the exact component. Once the new spindle has been installed it can be attached to the handle by line up the screw holes in the handle with the frames existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly installed, you are now ready to operate your uPVC window.