Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors experience wear and tear that could result in lock malfunctions. There are a few simple steps you can follow to ensure the security of your uPVC door.
These simple fixes can make your home safer, whether you realign the lock or clean the locking mechanism.
Clean the Lock
Although patio doors are a great option to bring the outside in and keep out the elements but they can also pose a security risk in the event that your lock isn't operating as it should. As time passes, wear and tear, hot and cold weather dirt and debris can affect your patio door's lock and cause it to become difficult to open. Fortunately, with a little maintenance you can make sure that your patio door's locks will always function correctly.
It is important to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This helps to remove any dirt and coatings that may be preventing the lock from functioning as it should. Start by wiping down all the moving parts of your patio door's lock with a damp, clean cloth. then use a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub the hard-to-reach areas of the door or frame that are covered in dirt. Then, wipe the lock down using a dry towel to remove any remaining moisture. Let it air dry before you use it.
If your patio door is equipped with a pin-tumbler latch you can lubricate it by applying powdered graphite to the key. You can also apply a Teflon lubricant such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant is easy to apply and it doesn't dissolve with time. If you're unable find the correct lubricant for your lock, you can make use of a pencil with a larger tip. Place the pencil into the lock, and shake it around to spread the graphite.
Sliding patio door tracks also require regular maintenance to ensure that they're free of dust, dirt, and debris. They are particularly susceptible to snow, ice, and other debris, which could cause them to get stuck or to bind. This can make it difficult for your patio door to be opened and closed.
You can clean the track rails and rollers on sliding patio doors by removing weather stripping that is damaged or dirty. Clean it, then replace it. The same is true for patio door rollers, which can be cleaned and sprayed with non-stick lubricant to help them move freely.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French Doors, similar to sliding patios, are operated using 3 to 4, or sometimes 5 point locking mechanisms. This includes the handle and lock cylinder that is operated with a key. These doors also need maintenance, including lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done using the use of a thin oil however, never WD40. It should be done every year, at a minimum.
If hinges that are sagging aren't the cause, the door may be misaligned and catching or striking the strike plate's hole in the frame. Remove the strike plate and use a sharp tool to expand the mortise. This will allow the latch to fit into the hole, and stop it from rubbing against the frame.
While the cylinder is out of the way and out of the way, measure its width using the help of a book or piece wood that can fit into the gap of adjustment screw above the lock. The outer dimension is measured from the outside of door to the center cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw until the end of the cylinder.
Verify the width of the lock.
If your patio door latch is difficult to turn even after cleaning and oiling, it's possible that it's not aligned with the strike plate. Check to see if the door is in balance and whether the hinge screws are secure However, in many cases it is possible to move the strike plate upwards or downwards can fix the issue.
The most common issue is when the lock's strike is too small for the latch to engage. In this situation you'll have to increase the hole using either a hammer or chisel, and then test the latch to ensure that it connects to the strike plate smoothly without rubbing against or catching on the frame of the door jamb.
Before you purchase a replacement lock, it is important to identify the type of mortise lock you have. This can be done by looking at the end faceplate and noting whether it is round or square. Then, take a look at the screw holes on the existing lock and note the dimensions of each one. This will enable you to locate the replacement lock that has the exact same width and will fit into the hole you have already.
In addition to identifying the current mortise lock, you'll also want to inspect it for any nicks or bends that may require repairing. A badly bent or damaged latch is more likely than one that's frequently used to break. Replace the lock if you notice signs of damage.
After you've determined the type of lock replacement you need Now it's time to start the actual repair. The old spindle and handle must be removed from the doorway to the patio. Introduce the new handle. Begin by installing the handle inside and aligning it with the spindle and then securing it in place with the two bolts or screws that hold it. Once the interior handle is in, install the handle on the outside and screw it into place as well. Once you have completed these steps Test the handles to make sure that they can be shut and open easily and that the latch is in contact properly with the strikeplate.
Check the door's Strike
The strike plate and the door latch are two components that work together to lock the door. An incorrectly aligned strike plate and door latch will cause the latch to not latch the door in a proper manner. This issue is usually easy to solve.
Check the receiving holes of the strike plate to ensure they are clear of obstructions like dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the keeper screws that hold the strike plate in place, allowing it to move horizontally, but not removing it from the frame of your door. Then, adjust the strike plate to ensure that its holes for receiving align with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted, tighten the screws and then test the door to determine whether it locks smoothly after the new adjustment.
Door strike plates can be a bit difficult to locate for homeowners with sliding patio doors, but they're crucial for locking and unlocking your door. The plates made of metal are located on the top and bottom jambs of the door where they support its latch. patio door repair near me RepairMyWindowsAndDoors onto this strike plate and creates the seal. If the strike plate is damaged or rusted or not properly installed, the latch may not properly lock the door.
A misalignment between the strike plate and latch is one common cause for the patio lock not to close or stick. The easiest method to check for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick on the edge of the deadbolt, and then apply masking tape over it. When you close the door the lipstick will leave an impression on the tape, showing exactly where the latch meets the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high, you can easily adjust the strike plate.
The sliding patio door locks protect your home from burglars. If they're not functioning correctly, you should fix the problem quickly. Follow these simple steps to repair your patio door lock and restore its function.