14 Common Misconceptions Concerning Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Has your uPVC window or door mechanism become faulty? Perhaps the door or window handles aren't aligned properly or are difficult to use.

It is essential that your double-glazed doors function smoothly, or else you'll be wasting energy and increase the chance of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can fix your door lock at a reasonable price.

Snapped Key

It can be quite frustrating when a key is snapped inside the lock. It also poses a security risk, as the door might not lock and make you open to intrusion. Fortunately, there are simple fixes you can attempt to fix the issue and get your door repair working correctly.

The first step is to remain calm. If you panic, you could end up pushing the damaged key further into the lock.

Spray WD-40 or another penetrating lubricant, into the lock. This will assist the broken piece to be removed more easily. You can also use a screwdriver to break any pieces that are stuck. If you have a piece of the key still sticking out, grab it with the help of a paperclip or any other thin metal object and pull it. Both of these methods work well, however, be cautious not to push the broken piece of the key further into the keyway.

Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can work in a pinch as hook extractors and some Jigsaw blades can also be used for this function. If you don't have any of these, you can bend a hook with needle-nosed pliers. Finally, a pair of tweezers is a good way to grasp and remove the remaining part of the broken key.

If you are unable to get the broken piece of the key out, you can try using a lock de-icer. It's available at most hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture that may be present in the lock.

If none of these strategies appear to be working you, it's time to call in locksmith. The experts at Fitlocks can quickly fix problems such as broken handles or broken keys with uPVC locks and door mechanisms. They can also alter your double glazing door mechanisms to allow them to operate more easily. Book a double glazing repair through us online or give us a phone call to discuss your needs.

Broken Cylinder

A broken cylinder can be a major security risk. A locksmith professional can repair the cylinder. A locksmith must tap the cylinder to fix it. This can be done with the hammer or other tool. However, the best method is to make use of a wire or a long match. Place the match or wire's end in the keyway. The locksmith will then strike the lock to crack it. This is far better than using a heavy hammer, which could damage the lock.

The most common cause of cracks in the cylinder head is overheating. This can happen when the cylinder block as well as the cylinder head are made from different metals, like cast iron and aluminium. Different metals will heat up and cool down at different rates. This can cause localized hotspots to expand more quickly than the rest of the cylinder.

Corrosion is a different reason for cylinder fractures. If the head and block of the cylinder are not maintained correctly they could corrosion or rust, which can cause them to expand faster than expected. This could lead to cracks in the future.

If your uPVC window or door lock is brittle and requires more pressure to turn, it could be due to a variety reasons. This issue could be caused by a malfunctioning locking mechanism or misalignment as well as a worn-out handle.

Fortunately, this is an easy and inexpensive fix for most double glazing owners. A professional locksmith will usually be able to solve this issue within a matter of hours of arriving at your property. They can fix the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles and 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 that give you an extra layer of protection from burglars. It is a small cost to get the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your uPVC door is secured.

Broken Handle

It's not a surprise that window handle locks could break. They are equipped with complex mechanisms that become less effective over time. It can be difficult to determine the reason for fitters a broken window handle lock and then fix it properly.

Fixing the broken handle, whether it's an internal locking mechanism or latch will increase the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. It can be expensive to replace or repair your handle incorrectly and it can also damage the frame and the lock of your door.

With the window in the open position and the window open, loosen the screw that holds the handle using a screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, usually covered by the cap of the screw for aesthetic reasons. It is important to not be able to replace any internal parts of the handle like the plates and levers on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same order so that you can re-install them if needed.

Then, using a second screwdriver, loosen the screw that connects the handle with the spindle in the back. Once the screw is loose, you can take the handle off and take out the broken spindle. Replace it with a new spindle, ensuring it's the same length (you can purchase them online or in hardware stores). Screw it into the correct position. Don't over tighten the screw as this could cause damage to the handle and window frame.

Close the handle and try it. It should function smoothly, and you will be able to open your window once again.

Make sure to check that your uPVC window repair is shut correctly when you're using the handle. If they're not closing properly cause draughts and damp in your home, as in addition to compromising your home's energy efficiency. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can adjust the hinges on your window frames to ensure that they shut correctly.

Broken Spindle

It is quite common that the spindle within the handle is broken, not the handle itself. This is most typical in uPVC tilt and turn windows. These types of windows require a handle that is a lock mechanism that is located in the frame of the window. The handle is attached to a centre rod that is then activated by a series of mushroom-like locking cams, these lock into window frame keeps. If the dead latch mechanism fails to open when the handle has been turned, it is most likely the spindle is broken. This can be a frustrating issue.

Fortunately, there are options to rectify this issue. A skilled locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the issue. A reputable locksmith can disassemble the handle of the window by using a tool to remove the wheel part that houses the spindle. This can be done with no damage to the handle or the window frame.

After the wheel has been removed, the technician will inspect the spindle to determine what caused it to break. This involves disassembling the spindle, and then examining each component, noting any wear or damage. This procedure is typically carried out by technicians working in a clean and Fitters safe environment.

The next step is to clean the damaged spindle. This will help get rid of any debris or dirt that might be preventing it from functioning normally. The spindle 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. He will then make holes in the same way into both pieces. This will ensure that the spindle fits perfectly with the handle.

If the spindle is damaged and cannot be repaired, it could need to be replaced entirely. Home centres sell generic replacements but if the style of your window is unique then it will be necessary to find a woodworker or cabinet maker who can replicate the exact part for you. Once the new spindle is installed, it can be positioned to the handle by lining up the screw holes on the handle with the frame's existing screws. Once the new handle is firmly in place, you'll be able to operate your uPVC window.