20 Questions You Need To Have To Ask About Patio Door Lock Repair Before You Purchase Patio Door Lock Repair
Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors experience wear and tear that could cause locks that fail. However, there are simple and efficient methods that can restore your uPVC patio door's security.
Whether it's realigning the lock or cleaning the mechanism that locks These simple fixes can make your home more secure.
Clean the Lock
Patio doors are great to let the outdoors inside and keeping out the elements. However, they can be a security threat if the lock doesn't work properly. Over time wear and tear, cold and hot weather dirt and debris can cause damage to the lock on your patio door and make it difficult to open. With a little effort, you can make sure that your lock for your patio door is always working correctly.
It's important to first clean the patio door lock as well as all moving parts. This will help to remove any coatings or dirt that may be preventing your lock from working correctly. Start by wiping all the moving parts of your patio door lock using an aqueous cloth. Then apply a scouring pad or a rough damp cloth to scrub the areas that are soiled of the frame and door. Then clean the lock using a dry towel to get rid of any moisture. Let it air dry before you use it.
If you have an outdoor door that has pin tumbler latch mechanisms, you can apply lubrication to the lock by applying graphite powdered to the key or using a lubricant made of Teflon, such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This kind of lubricant is easy to apply and it won't disintegrate over time. If you are unable to find a suitable lubricant You could use a pencil with an extremely sharp tip. Place the pencil into the lock, then shake it to distribute the graphite.
Regular maintenance is also required to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors clear of dust, dirt and debris. These tracks can be especially vulnerable to snow and ice which can cause them to jam or bind, making it harder for your patio doors to open and close.
The sliding rails of the patio door track and rollers can be cleaned by removing weather stripping that is damaged or dirty and then cleaning it, before installing it. The same applies for rollers on patio doors, which can be wiped down and then sprayed with a non-stick lubricant in order to allow them to move freely.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French Doors, similar to sliding patios, operate by using 3 to 4 or occasionally 5 points locking mechanisms. This includes the handle and lock cylinder that is operated by a key. They also require maintenance, including lubrication of the moving parts. This can be accomplished with the use of a thin oil however, never WD40. It should be done at least once per year.
If sagging hinges don't cause the problem it could be because the door is misaligned. It could be rubbing or catching the strike plate's hole in the frame. Remove the strike plate, and employ a sharp tool to enlarge its mortise. This allows the latch to fit correctly in the hole, and also prevents scratching or catching on the frame.
When the cylinder is out of the way, measure its width with an object or a piece of wood that can fit into the gap between the adjustment screw and the lock. The outer dimension is the distance from the outside of the door to the center of the cylinder, and the inner measurement runs from the center of the adjustment screw to the end of the cylinder.
Check the lock's width
If your patio door latch is difficult to turn, even after cleaning and oiling it could be because it is not aligned with the strike plate. Verify that the door is in balance and whether the hinge screws are secure however, in many instances it is possible to move the strike plate upwards or downwards can fix the issue.
The latch might not work properly in the event that the strike of the lock is not large enough. In this instance, you can widen the opening with an hammer and chisel. Then, test the latch to ensure it does not rub against the jamb frame of the door or fall the frame.
You must identify the kind of mortise lock you currently have before purchasing the replacement. This can be done by looking at the faceplate of the lock and noting if it is round or square. Look at each screw hole in the existing lock and note their dimensions. This information will assist you in finding a replacement that is of the same size and will fit perfectly into the hole that you already have.
You'll need to identify the mortise lock and inspect it for any bends, scratches or other damage that needs to be repaired. A badly bent or damaged latch is more likely than one that has been used a lot to break. Replace the lock if it displays evidence of damage.
Once you've identified the type of lock replacement that you require It's time to start the actual repair. Remove the old handle and spindle from your patio door, and then put in the new one. Start by putting in the handle inside, aligning it with the spindle and then securing it in place with the two bolts or screws which hold it. Install the exterior handle after the interior handle. After you've completed these steps, you can test the new handles to ensure that they open and close easily and that the latch is catching correctly with the strike plate.
Check the Strike on the door.
The strike plate and door latch are two pieces that work together to secure the door. If these are misaligned and the latch isn't latching the door shut correctly. Fortunately, this issue is often easy to fix.
First, inspect the strike plate's holes for receiving to make sure they are free of obstructions like dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the screws that keep the strike plate in place, allowing it to move horizontally, but not separating it from the door frame. Then, adjust the strike plate until its holes for receiving align with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate is adjusted, tighten all screws and check whether the door shuts smoothly.
Door strike plates can be difficult to locate for homeowners with sliding patio doors, however they are essential to lock and unlock your door. The plates made of metal are located on the top and bottom jambs of the door where they serve as the support for the latch. Then, the door latch is placed on the strike plate to create the seal when it is closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or is not installed correctly the latch might not properly lock the door.
One common reason for an outdoor door lock to become stuck or not close is a misalignment between the latch and the strike plate. The most effective way to test for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Repair My Windows And Doors on the edge of the deadbolt and put masking tape on it. The lipstick will leave an impression when you shut the door. This will reveal exactly where the latch meets the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high you can adjust the strike plate.
The sliding patio door locks protect your home from burglars. If they're not working properly, you need to repair the issue quickly. Follow these steps to fix your patio door lock and restore its function.