In residential homes across the UK, uPVC windows and doors are now commonly used. Because they are used frequently, the doors and windows are prone to wear and tear and common problems are eventually inevitable.
When problems with your UPVC windows and doors occur, you will probably need the help and expertise of a locksmith to correct the issue. However, the homeowner can diagnose and deal with the problem if you know how. Here you will find the common problems found with uPVC windows and doors around your home.
Common UPVC Door And Window Problems
Door Handle Stiff Or Door Not Locking
There are many reasons why your uPVC window or doors might not be locking properly and if you find that you can’t turn the key fully and the handle feels stiff, it could be the door or window might not be aligned properly. Not being aligned properly means the bolts in the door or window can’t line up into the locking position. This misalignment can be the result of several reasons which include, general wear and tear, hanging on the door handle, repeated slamming of the door or window when closing, or even contracting and swelling of the uPVC in cold and hot temperatures. To fix this problem the hinges need some adjustments so the door or window is realigned within the frame it sits in. Once alignment is adjusted the key should fully turn and lock the door or window securely without further problems.
UPVC Door Only Locks from One Side
If you find that your door will only lock from one side but the key will not turn in the other side then you are probably going to need a new barrel. If you find that you are not able to remove the key after you have lifted the handle and turned the key to lock then the lock cylinder may have slipped out of alignment. This is usually the result of worn keys and lock components due to wear and tear and frequent use. In this case, to resolve the issue you will need the help of a local locksmith who can replace the cylinder and ensure the correct cylinder size is used and fitted correctly.
Door Handle Spins All the Way Round Without Opening the Door
The problem of the handle spinning without opening the door usually happens when the handle has become stiff and the problem is not resolved by having the door re-aligned. The constant strain and forcing of the handle eventually take its toll and the internal components break under the stress. In this case, there is a chance that the spindle inside the lock back box is broken and will require a new back box or possibly a new locking unit which will be dependent on the type of multipoint lock that has been fitted. For this job, you will need the help of the local locksmith to get the door open and to fit new locks.
Lock Cylinders
We often find that the locks fitted to uPVC doors, even by the manufacturer, are not always the most secure when it comes to the security of your home. Some of these locks are not British Standard BS 3621 and this could mean that they may not meet the requirements of insurance companies when it comes to insuring your home.
Common methods used by burglars trying to enter your home are Lock snapping and lock bumping of standard locks that are supplied with your uPVC by the supplier. To make your home more secure after having uPVC doors installed it is best to get a qualified locksmith to upgrade the locks to secure anti-snap locks that will comply with insurance regulations. By having your locks upgraded to British Standard BS 3621 locks you will save money on your home insurance and you will know that your home or property is more secure. A qualified local locksmith will advise you on the best anti-snap locks to suit your budget and your security needs and will supply and fit the locks for you.
Broken Key in Window or Door Lock
Having a broken key in your window or door lock is a common problem for all key–entry locks and is often caused by wear and tear on frequently used keys.
To prevent this problem, it is always best to talk to your local locksmith as soon as you notice the lock jamming and try to refrain from forcefully trying to turn the key.
However, if it’s too late, and the key is broken, then contact A! Lukes Locksmiths, who will extract the broken key and help ensure you don’t have further problems in the future.
If for any reason you are having problems with uPVC doors or windows at your home or place of business, please contact A1 Lukes Locksmiths, who will be happy to discuss your needs – 0116 340 3403
