Faulty multipoint lock - now trapped indoors

dimension_1212

Last night I unlocked my french door from inside my house and found that I'm unable to open the door. The main problem is that the top pin (multipoint lock) that locks the door (when you turn the door handle up) does not retract into the french door when I turn the handle.

Furthermore I cannot lock my french door anymore with the key; usually when I close the door and turn the door handle up, I can lock the door. Now I can only turn the key 180 degrees.

Any suggestions?

keystone

1. Organise a locksmith for tomorrow.

2. Use another door in the meantime.

Cheers

dimension_1212

keystone wrote: »

1. Organise a locksmith for tomorrow.

2. Use another door in the meantime.

Cheers

I have read forums that some recommend calling the windows company, and some (like yourself) recommend calling the locksmith. I can see the rationale for calling either one.. So who should I call then?

Also, is there any way I can try to force the top pin down (into the door) without destroying the door in the process (obviously)?

Many thanks in advance

keystone

dimension_1212 wrote: »

I have read forums that some recommend calling the windows company, and some (like yourself) recommend calling the locksmith. I can see the rationale for calling either one.. So who should I call then?

Yes on reflection perhaps the door company.

Also, is there any way I can try to force the top pin down (into the door) without destroying the door in the process (obviously)?

IMO no. These things are too complicated - hence number 2 in my earlier post.

Cheers

SailorSam

Have a read of this and see if there is any useful tips.

http://toptradespeople.blogspot.co.uk/2009/09/how-to-repair-lock-in-upvc-door.html

keystone

SailorSam wrote: »

Have a read of this and see if there is any useful tips.

http://toptradespeople.blogspot.co.uk/2009/09/how-to-repair-lock-in-upvc-door.html

How is OP supposed to check any of that all of which require the door to be open? OPs door is locked shut! Just sayin'

Cheers

SailorSam

I've only read half of it so i don't know, but i notice there are links in it to other sites so maybe, just maybe someone else has had the same problem and they've made a post to say how they resolved it.
At the very least you'll see from there where you could buy a complete new lock for £100, if that's less than a mobile locksmith charges to just turn up. Well perhaps if the Op can do a bit of Diy she could remove the old one (with a big hammer) and fit a new one herself.
There may be tips how to open a stuck door, google is a wonderful thing. But on a Sunday morning if i was stuck i'd try anything before phoning an expert who may want to drill a hole in the door to get the old lock out.
I was just trying to help.

keystone

Yes I know you were trying to help and I didn't mean to be rude and I'm sorry if it came across that way. I did say "just sayin'". The chances are that the door has dropped and that isn't resolvable without the door being open to be able to get at the hinges. These multipoint locks cost in excess of £ 100 and the application of a lump hammer will more than likely involve a new door let alone a new lock.

Cheers

Ruski

keystone wrote: »

Yes I know you were trying to help and I didn't mean to be rude and I'm sorry if it came across that way. I did say "just sayin'". The chances are that the door has dropped and that isn't resolvable without the door being open to be able to get at the hinges. These multipoint locks cost in excess of £ 100 and the application of a lump hammer will more than likely involve a new door let alone a new lock.

Cheers

And how much do you think a locksmith will charge to do exactly the same thing??!?!

Russ

Pugwash69

My back door did the very same thing, but I've used an alternative door since! I was locked out, and had to use a ladder to enter a bedroom window that day.

keystone

Ruski wrote: »

And how much do you think a locksmith will charge to do exactly the same thing??!?!

Russ

No idea but as he wouldn't need to why would he?

Cheers