5 Qualities People Are Looking For In Every Repair Patio Door
How to Troubleshoot and Repair Patio Door Locks
Keeping your patio doors in good working in good order will protect your home from unwanted intruders. The elements can cause damage or misalignment to the patio doors as well as their locks.
You can repair your patio door lock on your own in the event that it isn't working correctly. These steps will fix problems with the handle, keyway, and latch.
Check the Lock
Patio doors are frequently targeted by burglars because of their large amounts of glass and convenient location within a home. It is essential that your locks work properly to ensure your home is secure. There are easy ways to troubleshoot and fix patio door locks that have stopped functioning properly.
First, examine the lock and make sure there is nothing that is hindering it from latching or locking. It is important to take care to address any issues you discover such as loose screws or rust. In some instances an adjustment of the patio door's position may suffice to resolve the issue.
Debris or dust can cause the lock mechanism to perform as it should. Clean your patio door and clean all lock hardware regularly to prevent this. You can apply a mild detergent solution when needed, but ensure that you dry the lock thoroughly afterward.
It is also a good idea lubricate your lock regularly. The moving parts inside your uPVC patio lock are comparable to those used in a precision-tuned machine. They are susceptible to jamming and become stuck as with any mechanical device. A graphite pencil, or even a small amount of lubricant can be used to get rid of any dirt or debris that has accumulated on the lock cylinder. This will ensure that it is functioning smoothly.
It is important to be aware of the exact dimensions of the patio door lock. This will help you choose a lock that perfectly matches the existing mechanism. If you're not sure how to do this, it's advisable to talk to an expert tradesperson or locksmith for help.
Clean the Lock
Over time, cold and hot weather dust and dirt can cause the delicate parts of the door lock to become stuck. These issues can affect the security of your home. These issues are easy to solve if you know what to do.
Clean your lock prior to attempting any repairs. Clean any stains and debris using a damp cloth. Then use a bit of hot soapy water to wash the lock mechanism and remove any dirt or grime that has accumulated over time. After you've cleaned your locks, let them dry completely before re-using them.
The majority of patio doors are secured by mortise locking mechanisms. This is a safe lock, but it is susceptible to problems over time. If your uPVC lock is stuck the first step is to clean and lubricate it. For the uPVC lock it is best to begin by cleaning the latch plate with a bit of hot soapy water. Then, remove sliding glass patio door repair that hold the body of the latch in place. After you have removed the latch handle and plate, you can remove it from its slot on the door frame.
Once the latch is removed, you can lubricate the lock with an oil that is light in nature, such as WD40. If you don't own WD40, you can also try using a graphite pencil to help dislodge any grit or dirt within the mechanism. If your uPVC lock doesn't work, you might need to move the lock cylinder. This will require additional tools and should be performed by an expert. You can practice repositioning a cylinder, without needing to remove it from the door. Close and open the door while the cylinder is in the lock position. Then, draw pencil marks on the frame inside where the screws that hold the locking cylinder are located.
Lubricate the Lock
If your lock is clean from dirt and debris it's a good idea to lubricate the keyhole as well as the locks themselves. Lubricants that are properly applied will keep your lock in good condition and extend its lifespan.
Dry graphite powder is great for lubricating small metal parts like locks because it's not oily or sticky and lasts longer than liquid lubricants. It's easy to apply, and you can also use it on sliding doors, door hinges and garage door tracks. Master locksmith Shawn Fago recommends using a pencil-type graphite lubricant that is specifically designed for lock cylinders.
Liquid lubricants are more efficient than graphite, particularly in humid climates. Silicone lubricants are water resistant and will not attract as much dust or dirt as other kinds of liquid lubricants. They are effective in both low and high temperatures. However, certain silicone lubricants may create the formation of a buildup over time, and may be displaced by other lubricants that you've used.
Teflon Lubricants are a good substitute for silicone lubricants, since they are long-lasting and do not attract dust or dirt. They're also suitable for cold environments because they can help keep ice from accumulating within the lock.
If the lock cylinder you have is stiff and difficult to turn, it's probably worn out. It's time to get it replaced. A professional locksmith will remove the lock mechanism and install the cylinder of a new model that matches your existing keys. They can also perform repairs and adjustments to existing lock mechanisms. If your door isn't equipped with an cylinder for your lock an expert can replace it to improve security and safety. They can also put the faceplate of your new lock on your patio door to match the rest of your hardware.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If cleaning and lubricating the door does not work, the issue could be that the latch on the door is not aligned correctly with the frame or jamb. Open the sliding patio door, and look up and down at the opening for the latch. If the door is in line with the jamb or the frame then you can test. If not, loosen the screws holding the latch body and adjust it downwards or upwards until the lock latch is firmly grasping the latch's hasp as the door is closed.
The latch can also be difficult to close as the cylinder is worn. It is necessary to replace the cylinder if the worn one is making it difficult to turn the key. You should choose a cylinder with the same keyway and dimensions like the one that came before it. This will allow you to replace it with ease by removing the two halves before inserting the replacement cylinder.
Many home improvement stores sell replacement cylinders. You'll need to know the brand and model of your existing cylinder so you can buy one that is compatible with it. If you don't know the model and manufacturer, take a photograph of the cylinder and its mounting screws. Then go to your local hardware store to seek help.
Once you have a new cylinder, remove the flat screw that holds it in place and remove the escutcheon plate. Make use of a screwdriver to remove the lock cylinder and escutcheon plate from the door as well as the door frame. Place the screw in a safe place so you do not lose it. Then, loosen the set screw on the cylinder keep (the metal piece that fits into the rectangular hole of the door).
Replace the Lock
A patio door lock that's not functioning properly could pose a serious security risk. Dirt and debris could get caught in the lock mechanism. If this is not addressed promptly, the lock may eventually stop working and no longer provide security. Replacing the patio door lock is a relatively easy DIY project that requires just a few tools and bit of time.
Start by examining the lock to see what is causing the problem. If cleaning and lubricating the latch fails the latch could be bent too far to function properly. In this instance it is recommended to replace the latch with a new mortise lock to ensure that it's as sturdy and secure as is possible.
Consult a door hardware or locksmith if you're unsure about undertaking this DIY project. They'll have all the tools and expertise needed to install the lock correctly.
Routine maintenance is the key to ensure that your patio door lock operating correctly. Check that the knobs and handles aren't loose and tighten them as needed. Lubricate the lock at least once per year to keep it from squeezing or becoming stiff. It is recommended that locks subject to heavy use or extreme weather conditions should be lubricated more often. The type of lubricant is important, so be sure to choose one that's specifically designed to be used on locks (GT85 or WD-40's Specialist Friction Dry PTFE). Apply the lubricant to the keyhole of the lock mechanism for best results.