Why We Do We Love Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs (And You Should Too!)

Double Glazing Door Lock Repairs

Are you experiencing issues with your uPVC door or window mechanism not working properly? Perhaps the window or door handles don't meet up correctly or are difficult to use.

It is essential that the double glazed doors operate smoothly, otherwise you will lose energy and increase the chances of burglary. Owen the Locksmith can repair your door lock at reasonable costs.

Snapped Key

When a key snaps off within the lock, it can be incredibly frustrating. It could also be a security risk, as it may make you vulnerable to an intruder if the door does not lock. There are a few easy fixes you can make to fix the problem and get your door working again.

The first step is to remain calm. If you get scared and start poking around wildly, you might just end up pushing the broken piece of the key even further into the lock, which could make the situation much worse.

Then spray WD-40 or a different penetrating oil into the lock to aid in making the broken piece slide out more easily. You can also employ a screwdriver in order to break pieces that could be blocking the way. If you're fortunate enough to have a bit of the key that is hanging out it, you can make use of a paperclip or other thin metal object to grab it and remove it. Both methods work, but be careful not to push the damaged key piece further into the keyway.

Some paperclips have grooved edges, which can be used as a hook extractor, and some jigsaw blades are also suitable for this use. If you don't happen to have any of these, you can bend a hook using needle-nosed pliers. You can also use a pair of tweezers grab and pull out the last bit of the broken keys.

If you cannot remove the broken piece of key, use a lock deicer. It's available in many hardware stores and is used to freeze any moisture present within the lock.

If none of these solutions work, it could be time to call a locksmith. Fitlocks experts can quickly resolve issues with uPVC door mechanisms and locks, including snapped keys and broken handles. They can also reconfigure double glazing door mechanisms to ensure that they are simpler to use. Book a double glazing repair with us online or give us a call to discuss your requirements.

Broken Cylinder

A broken cylinder can pose a major security risk. A professional locksmith is able to fix the cylinder. To fix the cylinder a locksmith will need to tap it. This can be done using the hammer or other tool. However, the most effective method is to use a wire or a long match. Then, put the match's tip or wire close to the keyway. After this, the locksmith can strike the lock to crack it open. This is superior to using a hammer that could damage the lock.

Overheating is the most common cause of cylinder heads cracking. This can occur when the cylinder block and head are made of various metals, including cast iron and aluminum. When the different metals heat up and cool down at different rates, it may 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 head and block of a cylinder are not maintained properly they could rust or corrode, which can cause them to expand more than expected. This can cause cracks in the future.

If your uPVC window or door lock is rigid and requires a lot of pressure to turn it could be due to a variety of reasons. This problem can result from a defective locking mechanism, or misalignment or a worn-out handle.

This is a simple and affordable fix that the majority of double glazing owners can accomplish. A professional locksmith should be able to solve this issue within a matter of hours of arriving at your property. They can repair the locking mechanisms, or replace the window handles, and also change the gearboxes, depending on your particular requirements. A professional locksmith will be able to advise you of the most cost-effective option for your home. They can also suggest upgrades to 3 Star security euro cylinders TS007 that give you an additional layer of security against burglars. It's a small amount to get the peace of mind that comes from knowing your uPVC door is secured.

Broken Handle

It's not surprising that window handle locks could break. They have complex mechanisms that become less effective over time. It isn't easy to determine the reason behind the broken window handle lock and fix it correctly.

Fixing the broken handle, regardless of whether it's the internal latch or locking mechanism can increase the security of your uPVC door and reduce the risk of draughts. It can be expensive to repair or replace your handle incorrectly and it can also harm 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 with a screwdriver. The screw should be located on the inside of the backplate, usually hidden by a screw cap to enhance the appearance. You should not lose any internal components of the handle such as the levers and plates on either side. Ideally, keep these in the same order so you can replace them again in the event of a need.

Then, rotate the handle until it's 90 degrees to the window frame. Finally, loosen the screw at the back of the handle which holds it to the internal spindle using a second screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you can remove the handle and take the broken spindle out. Replace it with a brand new spindle, ensuring that it's the same length (you can buy them on the internet or in hardware stores). Screw it in the frame. Be careful not to overtighten because this could cause damage to the handle or the window frame.

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

Be sure to double-check that your uPVC window is shut correctly when you're using the handle. If they're not closing properly, you may experience damp or draughts in your home. You could also compromise the energy efficiency of your home. Core Sash Windows is a local window company that can alter the hinges on your window frames to ensure they close correctly.

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 windows require a handle that acts as an locking device within the frame of the window. The handle is connected to a centre rod that in turn activates cams that look like mushrooms, they secure the frame of the window. If the dead latch mechanism is not able to open after the handle is turned, it's likely the spindle has been damaged. This could be a problem that is frustrating.

Fortunately there are steps that can be taken to fix this problem. A reputable locksmith will be able to quickly and effectively fix this issue. They can disassemble the window handle by using a tool that removes the wheel part of the mechanism where the spindle goes.  double glazing repairs Reigate  can be done without damage to the handle or the window frame.

After the wheel has been removed, the technician can inspect the spindle to determine what has caused it to break. This involves breaking the spindle into its individual parts and carefully recording their general condition, as well as any particular areas of damage or excessive wear. This process is typically performed in a clean room by highly skilled technicians.

The next step is to clean the damaged spindle, this helps eliminate any debris or dirt that might be obstructing its normal function. The spindle could then be repaired or replaced. If it is replaced, the technician can take a dowel of a similar size to the original and drill mating holes in both pieces of the spindle. This will ensure that the spindle is perfectly matched with the handle.

If the damaged spindle can't be repaired, it might require replacement completely. Home centers can sell generic replacements however if your window design is unusual you'll need to contact an expert in cabinet making or woodworking who can replicate the exact part. After the spindle is installed, it is attached to the handle. Line up the screw holes on the handle to the screws already in the frame. Once the handle is in place, you can use your uPVC windows.