double glazing repairs
Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC window or door mechanism faulty? Maybe the window or door handles aren't able to connect properly or are difficult to use.
It is crucial that your double-glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you'll lose energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock for a reasonable cost.
Snapped Key
It can be a hassle when a key is snapped into a lock. It could also be a security problem in that it can expose you to an intruder if the door is not locked. Fortunately, there are quick fixes you can use to solve the problem and get your door working correctly.
The first step is to remain calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the broken key further into the lock.
Spray WD-40, or any other penetrating lubricant, into the lock. This will allow the broken piece to be removed more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to help break up any pieces stuck that could be hindering the flow. If you're lucky enough to have a small piece of the key left hanging out, you can use a paperclip or some other metal object that is thin to grab it and remove it. Both methods work, but you must be careful not to push the broken key further into the keyway.
Some paperclips have grooved edges that could serve to extract hooks and some jigsaw blades are also suitable for this purpose. If you don't have one of these tools you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Additionally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grip and pull out the last part of the broken key.
If you cannot remove the broken key piece then you can use a lock deicer. It's usually available at all hardware stores. It is used to freeze any moisture or ice that might be in the lock.
If none of these strategies appear to be working you, it's time to call in locksmith. Fitlocks experts can fix issues such as broken handles and snapped keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also reconfigure your double glazing door mechanisms to make them easier to operate. You can book an appointment online for a double-glazing repair or call us to discuss your requirements.
Broken Cylinder
A damaged cylinder can pose an extremely risky security issue. A professional locksmith can easily fix the cylinder. Locksmiths will need to tap the cylinder to fix it. They can do this using an hammer or another tool, but the best way is to employ a long match or a piece of wire. Position the match or the wire's end close to the keyway. The locksmith will hit the lock to break it open. This is far better than using a hammer, which could damage the lock.
The most frequent cause for cracks in the head of a cylinder is due to overheating. This can happen when the block and the cylinder head are made of various metals like cast-iron and aluminum. When the various metals are heated and cool at different rates, it could create hotspots in the local area that expand faster than the rest of the cylinder head, thus leading to cracks.
Another possible cause of cracks in cylinders is corrosion. If the cylinder head as well as the cylinder block aren't properly maintained, this can cause corrosion or rust and cause them to expand at greater rates than they ought to. In time, this could cause cracks.
If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires a lot of pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety reasons. This can be caused by a faulty locking mechanism or misalignment and also a worn out handle.
This is a simple and cost-effective fix that a majority of double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith should be able solve the issue within an hour of arriving at your home. Based on your requirements, they can replace the locking mechanism, replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes. A locksmith with experience can always advise you on the most cost-effective options for your home. They may recommend upgrading to 3 Star TS007 Euro Cylinders, which offer an additional layer of protection against burglars. This is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your uPVC doors are safe.
Broken Handle
Window handle locks have intricate mechanisms that wear out as time passes and use, so it's no surprise that they can break. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the reason for the broken window handle lock and fix it correctly.
Repairing your damaged handle, whether it's an internal latch or the locking mechanism will increase the security of your uPVC door and stop draughts. If you do not repair or replace your handle can be very expensive and could damage the door's frame and lock It is therefore worth taking the time to do it right.
Screwdriver When the window is open and the screw loose, loosen the handle. The screw should be on the inside of the backplate, usually covered by an eye-catching cap to conceal it for aesthetic purposes. Be sure not to lose any of the internal components within the handle, for example the levers or plates on the opposite side of the spindle. It is best to keep them in the same order so that you can replace them again when needed.
Then, using another screwdriver loosen the screw that holds the handle to the spindle in the back. Once the screw is loose, you can pull the handle out and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can purchase them online or in hardware stores). Securely screw it in place. Do not tighten the screw too much because this could harm the handle as well as the window frame.
Make sure the new handle is installed, then close and test the handle. It should operate smoothly, and you will be able to open your windows after a few times.
While you're working on the handle, be sure to ensure that your uPVC windows are closing properly. If they aren't closing correctly, you could encounter draughts or damp in your home. Also, you could be compromising 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 quite common that the spindle in the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is especially common with 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 a central rod that triggers the mushroom-shaped locking cams that lock into the window frame keep. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle has been turned, it is likely the spindle is broken. This can be a frustrating problem.
There are ways to fix this problem. A good locksmith can quickly and efficiently solve the issue. A professional locksmith can disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool that removes the wheel portion that houses the spindle. This is done without damaging the handle or causing other damage to the frame of the window.
After the wheel has been removed, the technician will examine the spindle to determine what has caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its component parts and meticulously noting their general condition, as well as any specific areas of damage or excessive wear. The process is carried out in a clean, well-lit room by skilled technicians.
Then, clean the damaged spindle. This will help remove any dirt or debris which could be hindering it from functioning normally. The spindle could be replaced or repaired. If it is replaced, the technician will need an identical dowel size to the one used in the first and drill mating holes into both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle is perfectly matched with the handle.
If the damaged spindle is beyond repair, it may be necessary to replace it entirely. Home centers offer generic replacements but If the style of your window is unique then it is necessary to speak with a woodworker or cabinet maker who can replicate the exact component for you. Once the new spindle is in place it can be positioned to the handle by line up the holes for screws in the handle and the frame existing screws. Once the handle is securely in place, you can use your uPVC windows.