10 Things You Learned In Kindergarden They'll Help You Understand Patio Door Lock Repair
Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors go through wear and tear which can lead to lock malfunctions. There are a few easy steps you can follow to ensure the security of your uPVC door.
These easy fixes can make your home safer no matter if you adjust the lock or clean the locking mechanism.
Clean the Lock
Patio doors are ideal for letting the outdoors in while keeping out the elements. However they could pose a security threat if the lock doesn't work properly. As time passes wear and tear, hot and cold weather dirt and debris can take their toll on the lock on your patio door and make it difficult to open. With a little care, you can make sure that the lock on your patio door always works properly.
In the beginning, it's important to clean the lock on your patio door and all of its moving parts. This helps remove any dirt and coatings that could hinder the lock from working in the way it should. Start by wiping the moving parts of your patio door lock with a damp cloth. Then, use a scouring cloth or a rough damp cloth to scrub the areas that are soiled of the frame and door. Then, wipe the entire lock using a dry cloth to remove any remaining dampness, and allow it to dry completely before using it again.
If your patio door is equipped with pin-tumbler latches, you can apply powdered Graphite on 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 over time. If you're not able to find a suitable lubricant you might use a pencil with an extremely sharp tip. Insert the pencil in the lock, and shake it to distribute the graphite.
Regular maintenance is also essential to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors clear from dirt, dust and debris. These tracks are particularly vulnerable to snow, ice, and other particles, which can cause them jam or bind. This can make it difficult for your patio door to open and close.
Tracks for sliding patio doors and rollers can be cleaned by removing weather stripping that is damaged or dirty, cleaning them, then reinstalling it. The same is true for rollers on patio doors, which can be cleaned and sprayed with a non-stick lubricant that will allow them to move freely.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French doors, like sliding patios, are operated using 3 to 4, or sometimes 5 points locking mechanisms. They include the lock cylinder and handle that is operated with a key. These doors also require maintenance, specifically lubrication on the moving parts. This can be done with an oil that is thin (never WD40) and is recommended to be done at least once per year.
If sagging hinges don't cause the issue, it could be that the door isn't aligned. It may be rubbing or catching the strike plate's opening in the frame. The solution is to take off the strike plate and then use an abrasive chisel to increase the size of the mortise that it rests in. This will allow the latch to fit properly into the hole and stop it from hitting the frame.
Take a measurement of the diameter of the cylinder using a piece of wood or a book that fits into the gap above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is measured from the outside of the door to the center of cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw until the end cylinder.
Check the Lock's Width
If your patio door latch is difficult to turn, even after cleaning and lubricating, it's possible that it is out of alignment with the strike plate hole. Check if sliding patio door repair is properly balanced and that the hinge screws are secure. In many cases, however, simply moving the strike plate downwards or upwards could solve the issue.
The most common issue is when the strike of the lock is too small for the latch to engage. In this case, you'll need to enlarge the opening 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 getting caught on the door's frame jamb.
Before buying a replacement lock, it is important to determine what kind of mortise lock you have. You can do this by looking at the faceplate of the lock and noting if it is square or round. Examine each screw hole on the existing lock and note the size. This information will aid you in finding an alternative lock that is the same width and is a perfect fit for your existing hole.
In addition to identifying the mortise lock that is currently in use, you'll also need to check it for any nicks or bends that may require repairing. A damaged or bent latch is more likely than one that's been used a lot to break. Replace the lock if you notice evidence of damage.
After you've determined the type of lock replacement you need Now it's time to begin the actual repair. The old handle and spindle must be removed from the doorway to the patio. Introduce the new handle. Start by installing the interior handle. Align it with the spindle and then secure it in position using two bolts or screws. Install the exterior handle after the interior handle. After you've completed these steps you can test the new handles to ensure they are able to open and close with ease and that the latch catches correctly with the strike plate.
Make sure you check the Strike of the door.
The door latch and strike plate are two components of the lock that work to ensure that the latch is secure the door. A misaligned strike plate or door latches will cause the latch to not latch the door correctly. This issue is usually simple to repair.
Examine the holes that receive the strike plate to make sure they are clear of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the keeper screws that secure the strike plate in place, allowing it to move vertically, but not detaching it from the frame of your door. Adjust the strike plate so that it aligns its holes for receiving with the latch hooks of the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted then tighten the screws and test the door to see whether it locks smoothly after the new adjustment.
Door strike plates can be difficult to access for homeowners who have sliding patio doors, however they're essential for locking and unlocking your door. The plates made of metal are located between the top and bottom jambs of the door where they support its latch. The door latch is able to slide into the strike plate to create a seal when closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or not installed correctly, it can stop the latch from locking the door securely.
A misalignment between the strike plate and latch is one common cause for a patio lock to not close or remain in place. The most effective way to test for this is with the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick on the outside of the deadbolt and attach masking tape over it. When you shut the door, the lipstick will leave marks on the tape, indicating exactly where the latch meets the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low you can adjust the strike plate.
If your sliding patio door locks are not working properly they could be a problem in keeping your home safe from burglars. You need to repair the issue as soon as you can. By following these easy steps, you'll be able to fix your patio door's lock and get it back to normal within a short time.