uPVC Doors: Common Faults
A common type of door found in homes in the Macclesfiled and Stockport area is the uPVC multi point type. Most faults will require a locksmith to attend, but sometimes the householder can diagnose the problem.
My uPVC door is not locking properly or has a stiff handle
There are several reasons why your uPVC door could be failing to lock correctly.
If the handle has been feeling a bit stiff and the key won’t fully turn any more, chances are that your uPVC door locking bolts are not fully throwing because the door is out of alignment. This can be caused by swelling and contracting of the uPVC door at differing temperatures or from general wear and tear on the uPVC door due to repeated slamming, or because the door is incorrectly hung. This can often be remedied by adjusting the hinges of the door to re-align the keeps in the frame. Once the lock is operating smoothly without obstructions the key will turn.
Similar symptoms can also be caused by a build up of debris in the uPVC door frame which prevents the door from shutting correctly. Regular cleaning of dirt and stones out of the frame will prevent this.
In either case, we would recommend following our uPVC door maintenance guidance and if this does not resolve the fault, please get in touch.
My uPVC door will only lock from one side / The key cannot be removed from the lock when the handle is lifted
If you find that your uPVC door only seems to lock from one side of the door and the other will not allow the key to turn, then you will need a replacement lock barrel.
If when you lift the handle, and you turn the key to lock, you are unable to remove the key. This is caused by the central cam of the lock cylinder slipping out of alignment. In general, this seems to be caused by worn keys and lock components, often as a result of heavy use and substandard quality locks.
You will need to call your local locksmith to replace the cylinder with a new one of correct size. This is a relatively quick job if there are no other complications.
My uPVC door handle is spinning all the way round and won't open the door
This is often the result of not getting your uPVC door adjusted when it has been feeling stiff. Prolonged forcing of the handle puts massive strain on internal parts and eventually they WILL break!
The spindle inside the lock back box has broken and will need either a replacement backbox or entire locking unit, depending on the type of multipoint lock that is fitted.
You will need to call a local locksmith to open the uPVC door and order the new parts.
As such, it is important that you get your door adjusted when early symptoms of stiffness occur to avoid the cost of replacing the locking mechanism later on.
I have lost the keys for my uPVC door or I am locked out
This is definitely a job for an emergency locksmith.
DO NOT attempt to force the uPVC door open as you may cause more serious damage to the multi-point lock. A locksmith should be able to pick or drill the lock to open the door cleanly without permanent damage. Once the uPVC door is open the lock cylinder can be removed and a new one fitted.
Need a Locksmith?
Cusworth Master Locksmiths is a local, family run business serving Stockport, Macclesfield and Cheshire areas with over 25 years of experience.
- We carry out most repairs and replacements for uPVC door and window locks on the same day an enquiry is made.
- Over 25 years of experience repairing common uPVC door faults
- When you call us, you will speak to a local, fully qualified locksmith – never a call center operator!
