uPVC Door Repairs – Tips from a Local Winchester Locksmith
uPVC Doors – As a locksmith in Winchester for the past 17 years, I’ve repaired more than my fair share of uPVC doors. These doors are everywhere in the area, especially in newer builds and modern homes—and for good reason.
Let’s start with the positives.
Why So Many People Choose uPVC Doors
uPVC doors are a firm favourite in Winchester, and here’s why:
- They’re tough, weatherproof, and incredibly low maintenance
- You don’t need to paint or varnish them—just give them a wipe down now and again
- They offer excellent insulation from both noise and heat
- They’re relatively cheap to buy and easy to fit
- And if you invest in a decent lock, they can be very secure
So, lots of upsides—but like any product, they’re not without their quirks. Over the years, I’ve seen the same few issues crop up again and again. Here’s what to look out for—and what to do if things go wrong.
Common uPVC Door Problems (and How to Fix Them)
1. Lock Snapping
If your uPVC door still has a standard euro cylinder lock, your property could be vulnerable to a technique called lock snapping. Sadly, this method has become more common across Winchester.
The fix is simple: upgrade your lock to an anti-snap euro cylinder. At Locksmith Winchester, I supply and fit a range of options—from budget anti-snaps to high-end 3 Star TS007 cylinders, which meet the highest current standards. All of them will offer much better protection than a basic lock, and none will break the bank.
This job is quick, clean, and doesn’t require any major door work.
2. Misaligned uPVC Doors
Another common call-out I get is for misaligned doors. uPVC doors, especially older ones, can shift slightly over time due to their weight. You might first notice it when the lock feels stiff or won’t engage properly.
The good news? It’s usually a straightforward fix. A quick realignment can bring things back into place without needing new parts.
Here’s a tip: call a locksmith, not a double glazing company. In most cases, we’ll fix it faster—and often for less money.
3. Worn Locking Mechanisms
If your key turns but the door won’t unlock—or won’t lock at all—you might have a problem with the multi-point locking system (MPL). Don’t panic. This doesn’t mean your whole door needs replacing.
In most cases, it’s just the gearbox that needs replacing. I keep a wide selection of MPL gearboxes stocked in the van, so I can usually sort the issue on the first visit. For older doors, I may need to order a part, but I’ll always make sure your door is secure before I leave.
Final Thoughts
Yes, uPVC doors can come with the odd issue—but they still offer great value and solid security, especially when fitted with the right locks and maintained properly.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Install a British Standard anti-snap euro cylinder
- Keep your door well maintained and get issues sorted early
- Don’t wait for it to stop working completely—call a locksmith if anything feels “off”
Need a Hand?
If you’ve got a stiff lock, a door that’s dropped, or you simply want a security check, I’m here to help. I work in Winchester and the surrounding area, and I carry a full range of BS3621-approved locks, gearboxes, and other essentials to get your doors working properly again.
Call Locksmith Winchester on 01962 690072
Visit locksmithwinchester.co.uk
Or just drop me a message—I’m always happy to offer advice or book you in.
Stay safe!
