3 Common Causes For Why Your Patio Door Lock Repair Isn't Performing (And Solutions To Resolve It)
Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors undergo wear and tear that can lead to lock malfunctions. There are a few basic steps you can follow to restore the security of your uPVC door.
These quick fixes can make your home safer no matter if you adjust the lock or clean the mechanism.
Clean the Lock
Patio doors are ideal to let the outdoors in while keeping out the elements. However they can pose risky for security in the event that the lock isn't working correctly. With time, 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. With a little care you can make sure that your patio door's locks always work properly.
It's important to clean the lock of your patio door and all of its moving parts. This helps to remove any dirt and coatings that could be preventing the lock from working in the way it should. Start by wiping all the moving parts on the lock for your patio door with an aqueous cloth. Then apply a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub the dirt-infested areas of the door frame and frame. Then wipe the lock using a dry towel to get rid of any moisture. Allow it to air-dry before using it.
If your patio door uses pin-tumbler latches, you can lubricate it by applying powdered Graphite to the key. You can also use a Teflon lubricant like WD-40 Multi Use Product. This type of lubricant is able to be applied easily and doesn't dissolve over time. If you're unable find the correct lubricant for your lock, apply a pencil that has a thicker tip. Insert patio door lock repair in the lock, then shake it to distribute the graphite.
Tracks for sliding patio doors require regular maintenance to keep them free of dust, dirt and other debris. They are particularly susceptible to ice, snow, and other debris, which could cause them to get stuck or to bind. This could make it difficult for your patio door to open and shut.
The sliding rails of the patio door track and rollers can be cleaned by removing dirty or damaged weather stripping and cleaning them before installing it. The same is true for patio door rollers, which can be cleaned and then sprayed with a non-stick lubricant in order to allow them to move freely.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC french doors, which are similar to sliding patio doors, work with 3-4 or sometimes five-point locking mechanisms, which include the handle and lock cylinder controlled by the key. These doors require maintenance, lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done using the use of a thin oil however, never WD40. It is recommended to do it at least once per year.
If sagging hinges aren't the cause, the door may be misaligned and catching or rubbing against the strike plate hole within the frame. The solution is to take off the strike plate and then use an abrasive chisel, which will enlarge the mortise it rests in. This allows the latch to sit perfectly in the hole, and also prevents getting caught or rubbing against the frame.
Take a measurement of the width of the cylinder with a piece of wood or a book that can be inserted into the gap above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is the distance from the outside of the door to the middle of the cylinder. the inner measurement runs from the center of the adjustment screw to the end of the cylinder.
Check the lock's length
If your patio door latch isn't able to turn, even after cleaning and oiling, it's possible that it is not aligned with the strike plate. Check to see if the door is properly balanced and whether the hinge screws are secure However, in many cases, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards could fix the problem.
Most of the time, the issue occurs when the strike of the lock is too small for the latch to engage. In this situation, you need to widen the opening with the hammer and chisel. Then test the latch to ensure it doesn't touch the jamb frame of the door or get caught the frame.
It is important to identify the type of mortise lock that you are using before you purchase a replacement. This can be done by looking at the faceplate and determining if it is square or round. Then, take a look at the screw holes on the existing lock and note the dimensions of each. This will assist you in finding an alternative that is the same size and fits perfectly into the hole that you already have.
You'll want to identify the mortise lock, and then examine it for any bends, scratches or other damage that needs to be repaired. A damaged or bent latch is more likely than one that's been used a lot to break. Replace the lock if it shows indications of damage.
Once you've identified the type of lock replacement you require Now it's time to begin the actual repair. Take the old handle and spindle from the patio door, and then install the new one. Start by installing the interior handle. Align it with the spindle, and then secure it in position using two bolts or screws. Once the handle in the interior is installed, put in the exterior handle and screw it into place as well. After you've completed the steps then you can test the new handles to ensure they are able to open and close with ease and that the latch locks correctly with the strike plate.
Check the Door's Strike
The strike plate and door latch are two components that work together in order to lock the door. Misaligned strike plate and door latches will result in the latch not being able to latch the door correctly. Fortunately, this issue is usually simple to fix.
First, inspect the strike plate's receiving holes to make sure they are clear of obstructions like dirt or plastic plugs. Release the screws that hold the strike plate in position. This allows it to move vertically, but it will not be able to separate from the frame. Then adjust the strike plate until its holes for receiving are aligned with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted then tighten the screws and then test the door to determine if it shuts smoothly with the new adjustment.
Door strike plates can be a bit difficult to access for homeowners who have sliding patio doors, but they are essential to lock and unlock your door. These metal plates are usually located on the top and bottom of the door jamb where they serve as the door's latch. The door latch is able to slide into the strike plate to create an airtight seal when closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted or not properly installed, it could prevent the latch from locking the door securely.
One common reason for the patio door lock to become stuck or not close is a misalignment between the latch and strike plate. This can be checked with the "lipstick" test. Apply some lipstick across the edge of the deadbolt. Then cover it with masking tape. When you close the door, the lipstick will leave an impression on the tape that will show exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low it is possible to adjust the strike plate.
If your patio door locks for sliding aren't functioning properly they can help keep your home secure from intruders. You must resolve this issue as quickly as possible. By following these simple steps, you can repair your patio door's lock and restore its functionality within a short time.
