15 Weird Hobbies That'll Make You More Effective At Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs
Have you noticed that your uPVC window or door mechanism started to fail? Perhaps the handles on your uPVC windows or doors are not aligned properly or are difficult to use.
You will lose energy when your double-glazed doors do not function properly. This also increases the likelihood of burglaries. Owen the Locksmith will be able to fix your door lock at an affordable price.
Snapped Key
It can be frustrating when a key gets stuck into the lock. It's also potentially a security risk, as the door may not be locked and make you open to intrusion. Fortunately, there are some quick fixes you can attempt to fix the issue and get your door working properly once more.
Be sure to remain calm. If you panic and begin doing a lot of fumbling around you may end up pushing the damaged piece of the key even further into the lock, making the situation worse.
Next, spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break off any pieces stuck. If you have a part of the key that is stuck then grab it using the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both of these methods work well, however, be very careful not to push the damaged piece of the key deeper 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 happen to have one of these tools you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grasp and remove the remaining piece of the key that was broken.
If you cannot remove the broken key piece then you can use a lock deicer. It's available in many hardware stores and works by freezing any moisture present inside the lock.
If none of these methods are working then it's probably time to call in locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly solve problems like broken handles or broken keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to make them more user-friendly. Book a double glazing repair with us online, or give us a phone call to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose a serious security threat. Luckily, it's an easy repair for a professional locksmith to complete. To fix the cylinder, locksmiths must tap it. This can be done with a hammer, or any other tool. The best method is to use a wire or a long match. Place the match or wire end near the keyway. The locksmith can then hit the lock to crack it. This is far better than using a hammer, which could cause damage to the lock.
The most frequent cause for cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can occur when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made of different metals, like cast iron and aluminum. Different metals can be heated and cool at different rates. This can cause localised hotspots to expand quicker than the rest of the cylinder.
Corrosion is another possible reason for fractures in cylinders. When the cylinder head and the block of the cylinder are not properly maintained, this can result in corrosion or rust that could cause them to expand at greater rates than they ought to. Over time, this can also cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is stiff or requires lots of pressure to turn, this can be caused by a number of things. A faulty locking mechanism, misalignment or a worn handle are common reasons for this issue.
Fortunately it's a simple and cost-effective fix for the majority of homeowners of double glazing. A professional locksmith will typically be able to resolve the issue within an hour after arriving at your residence. They can replace the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and replace the gearboxes based on your specific needs. A locksmith with experience will always be able to advise you on the most cost-effective solution for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to the highest-security 3 Star TS007 euro cylinders that will add an extra layer of protection against burglars. It's a small price to get the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secured.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that deteriorate as time passes and use, so it's not a surprise that they sometimes break. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the reason behind a broken window handle lock and repair it correctly.
Whether the problem is in the internal locking mechanism or the latch, repairing your broken handle will increase your uPVC double glazing door's security as well as help you to stop the draughts. It could be costly to replace or repair the handle in a way that isn't done correctly. It can also damage the frame and lock of your door.
Screwdriver Open the window remove the screw that holds the handle. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, usually covered by the cap of the screw to enhance the appearance. Be sure not to damage any of the internal components within the handle, for example the plates or levers on either side of the spindle. It is best to keep them in the same order so you can re-install them in the event of a need.
Then, turn the handle to make it 90 degrees towards the window frame. Then, loosen the screw at the back of the handle that fixes it to the internal spindle with a second screwdriver. Once this is released, you'll be in a position to pull the handle off and pull out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new one, making sure that it is the same length as the previous one (you will typically find them on the internet or at hardware stores) and screw it securely in the right place. Be careful not to overtighten because this could damage the handle or the window frame.
Close the handle and try it. It should work smoothly and you'll be able to open your window once more.
Make sure to check that your uPVC window is shut properly when you're using 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 in a position to adjust the hinges on your window frames so they can shut properly.
Broken Spindle
It is more common for the spindle to break than the handle. This is most common in uPVC tilt-and-turn windows. These kinds of windows require a handle that operates a locking mechanism in the frame of the window. The handle is attached to a central rod which in turn activates cams that resemble mushrooms, which secure the frame of the window. If the dead latch mechanism does not open after the handle has been turned, it is most likely the spindle is damaged. This can be a problem that is frustrating.
Fortunately there are steps that can be taken to rectify this issue. A skilled locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. A professional locksmith will be able to disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool that removes the wheel from the area that houses the spindle. This is done without causing any damage to the handle or causing any other damage to the frame of the window.
After removing
double glazing repairs can examine the spindle to determine the cause of the break. This involves breaking down the spindle into its individual parts and meticulously noting their general condition as well as any particular areas of damage or excessive wear. The process is done in a clean room by skilled technicians.
The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will remove any dirt or other debris that may be obstructing it from functioning normally. After this the spindle could be repaired or replaced. If the technician is replacing the spindle he can use a dowel that is comparable in size to the original. He will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This ensures that the new spindle is an exact fit with the handle.
If the spindle that is damaged is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centers can sell generic replacements but if the window design is unique then you'll need to contact a cabinet maker or woodworker who can replicate the exact part. Once the spindle has been installed, it can be attached to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle to the screws that are already in the frame. Once the handle is firmly in place, you can use your uPVC windows.