Buzzwords De-Buzzed: 10 Alternative Ways For Saying Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism deteriorated? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows or doors aren't aligned correctly or are difficult to operate.
You will lose energy when your double-glazed doors do not function properly. This increases the likelihood of burglaries. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be quite frustrating when a key snaps into the lock. This can also be a security issue, as it may expose you to burglars if your door does not lock. There are a few quick fixes you can make to repair the issue and make your door functional again.
The first step is to remain calm. If you get scared and start playing around with your keys you could end up pushing the damaged piece of the key further into the lock, making the situation much worse.
Next spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece to slide out more easily. You can also make use of a screwdriver to break up any stuck pieces that might be blocking the way. If you happen to have a bit of the key sticking out, you can make use of a paperclip or other metal object that is thin to grab it and then pull it out. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the broken key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips come with grooved edges that can be used as hook extractors. Jigsaw blades can also work well for this. If you don't have any of these items you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, a pair of tweezers can be used to grip and pull out the last piece of the key that was broken.
If you're unable to pull the broken piece of key out, try using a lock de-icer. It is available in most hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present within the lock.
If none of these tricks seem to be helping, it might be time to call in locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly fix problems such as broken handles or snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure the double glazing door mechanisms so that they are more easy to operate. You can request an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or call us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder poses a serious security threat. A locksmith professional can fix the cylinder. To repair the cylinder, locksmiths will need to tap it. They can do this with an hammer or another tool, but the most efficient way is to make use of a long match or piece of wire. Position the match or the wire end near the keyway. After that, the locksmith will hit the lock to break it open. This is much better than using a heavy hammer that can cause damage to the lock.
Overheating is the main reason for cylinder heads to crack. This can happen when the block and the cylinder head are made from different metals like cast-iron and aluminum. Different metals can heat up and cool off at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest of the cylinder.
Another possible cause of cylinder cracks is corrosion. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained properly they could be corroded or rust and cause them to expand faster than anticipated. This can cause 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 reasons. A defective locking mechanism, misalignment or a worn handle are common causes of this issue.
This is a simple and affordable fix that the majority of double glazing owners can do. 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 also change the gearboxes, based on the specific requirements of your home. A locksmith with experience can always advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which give you an extra layer of protection from burglars. It's a small price to pay for the security that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are secure.
Broken Handle
It's not surprising that window handle locks can break. They have intricate mechanisms that become less effective over time. If yours fails it's difficult to pinpoint the cause of the issue. Make sure you fix it correctly.
Whether the problem is with the internal locking mechanism or the latch, repairing your broken handle will improve your uPVC double glazing door's security and help you to stop drafts. It could be costly to replace or repair the handle in a way that isn't done correctly. It could also harm the frame and the lock of your door.
With the window open and the window open, loosen the screw that holds the handle using the screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, usually covered by a screw cap for aesthetic reasons. It is not recommended to lose any internal parts of the handle such as the plates and levers on either side. Keep them in the same arrangement so that it is simpler to replace them in the event of a need.
Then, with an additional screwdriver, loosen the screw that holds the handle to the spindle on the back. Once the screw is loose, pull the handle out and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a brand new one, making sure it's the same length as the old one (you can typically find these on the internet or at hardware stores) and then securely screw it into the correct position. Be cautious not to overtighten because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Check that the new handle is correctly fitted after which you can close and test the handle. It should function smoothly and you'll be able to open your windows once again.
While you're working on the handle, don't forget to check your uPVC windows are shut properly. If they don't close properly, you could experience damp or draughts inside your home. It could also affect the energy efficiency of your home. A local window company, such as Core Sash Windows, will be capable of adjusting the hinges on your window frames so they can shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more likely for the spindle to break rather than the handle. This is especially common with uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These types of windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the frame of the window. The handle is attached a central rod that activates a series of cams with a mushroom shape that lock into the window frame keep. If double glazing repairs Kentish Town does not open when the handle has been turned, it's likely the spindle is damaged. This could be a frustrating issue.
Luckily there are steps that can be taken to remedy this situation. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. They can take apart the window handle using a tool that removes the wheel portion of the mechanism that is where the spindle goes. This is done without damage to the handle or window frame.
After removing the wheel, the technician can examine the spindle and determine the reason for its break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its constituent parts and carefully recording their general condition, as well as any particular areas of damage or excessive wear. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians in an environment that is clean.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this assists in removing any dirt or debris that could be hindering its normal operation. After this the spindle could be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle he can use a dowel that is similar in size to the original. Then, he will make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle will fit 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 the window design is unique you'll require contacting a cabinet maker or woodworker who can make the exact part. Once the new spindle is in place it can be fitted to the handle by line up the screw holes on the handle and the frame existing screws. Once the new handle is seated you will be ready to operate your uPVC window.