Everything You Need To Learn About Replacement Patio Door Lock
Replacement Patio Door Handle
Patio door handles are an essential element of your home's security. If you notice problems with the lock on your patio door it is important to fix them immediately to keep your home safe.
To begin, you will need to identify your current patio door lock. This will allow you to determine the type of replacement you should purchase.
Identification
The lock on your sliding patio door plays a crucial part in the security and operation of your home. In time, it will become worn or damaged and require replacement. It could be due to a variety of causes like a broken handle, a loose latch, or the inability to turn the handle spindle correctly. Most homeowners can replace their patio door lock on their own.
Begin by identifying the type of lock you own. You can do this by looking at the way the handle's tiny actuator lever is connected to the latch's hasp or looking at the lock itself. This is important as the kind of lock you'll need will depend on the style of your patio doors as well as your specific issue with the lock.
Rectangular mortise locks with cutouts are commonly employed in aluminum patio doors. They can also be used on vinyl and wood patios doors. These locks are typically positioned in a recess in the frame of the patio door and are fitted with rectangular screw holes. You can also take a picture using a digital camera and forward it to the vendor. This is a simple way to make sure that your new patio lock is compatible with your existing system.
On older patio doors, you can find locks that have top and bottom tabs. These locks are more secure than sliding bolt locks as they engage the door frame to stop the door from being raised or forced. Sliding bolt locks are typically more frequent on newer patio doors since they use a metal slide bolt that retracts into a strike plate to provide extra strength and security.
For extra security, you can add an electronic lock that is keyed to your patio doors by replacing the existing knob and handle with one designed to accommodate a keyed lock. This is a great way to protect your family, your pets, and your belongings and to prevent burglars from getting access to your patio door, especially when your area has high crime rates.
Cleaning
If a patio lock is working properly it will keep the door securely against unwanted intruders or weather elements. But, like all hardware doors, outdoor door locks require periodic cleaning and lubrication in order to keep them from becoming stiff and unable to function properly. The good thing is that the cleaning process is easy, straightforward and affordable and can be done by anyone who owns a home.
A door that squeaks is typically caused by dirt and dust accumulation within the mechanism. Baking soda and vinegar are a quick solution to break up grime, making it easier to clean the door with a toothbrush or sponge. During this cleaning process, it's also a good idea to make use of a can of compressed air to blast away any dirt-laden particles that are stubborn to remove.
To avoid squeaks following cleaning, a light coating of lubricant is recommended to the keyhole, latch, and other moving parts. Be careful not to apply too much of the lubricant, as too much can attract dirt and cause interference with functionality.
After lubrication is complete after which the lock needs to be tested to ensure that it is working correctly. If the lock is still squeaky, there may be a slight misalignment of the frame or hinges with the door. If this is the situation it's important to address the issue before it gets any worse by changing the lock's points and the door to ensure that it is aligned with the frame.
A uPVC door handle that doesn't move is a major issue, especially since it makes your home vulnerable to burglars and the elements. The problem can be caused in a variety of ways, from minor changes in weather to the absence of regular maintenance on movable parts. If the issue is dealt with promptly it's possible to bring back the door's functionality. Maintaining your uPVC doors and locks with proper care and cleaning is the best method to safeguard your home.
Lubrication
The lock mechanisms of your patio door may be affected by dust or debris that can make them difficult to open and latch. In these instances it is necessary to lubricate the lock to resolve the issue. It is crucial to clean your lock mechanisms before applying lubricant. The lubricant shouldn't be oily since it could attract dust particles, which could cause additional problems for your patio doors. Hardware stores sell dry lubricants that are ideal for lubricating lock mechanisms.
Powdered graphite is the best choice of lubricant for locks. Locksmiths have been using it to lubricate metal components for a long time because it doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid oils. It has a waxy consistency and stays in the lock to provide lasting lubrication. Graphite is safe to use and it can be reapplied regularly to keep the lock working smoothly.
If you are looking to lubricate your lock, you should first clean it using a penetrating cleaner such as WD-40. After cleaning the lock, keyhole mechanism, and cylinder you can apply dry lubricant. This will allow the lock to run smoothly and stop it from getting stuck or jamming.
A good quality silicone spray can be found in most hardware stores under various brands. This kind of lubricant is the most effective and comes in a variety of sizes. It will also protect the lock from corrosion. It was common practice to use WD-40 or other oils on things with small moving parts before dry lubricants became widely available. However this method can cause dirt to build up and damage your lock.
If your sliding glass handles on your patio are squeaky or difficult open and close, it could be time to replace the lock assembly. The most frequent causes of this problem are loose screws, rust or misalignment with the latch. Fortunately the process of changing the lock is easy and can be completed with minimal effort. If you're unsure of what to do, seek out a reputable company for assistance.
Installation
The patio door lock is an essential part of your home security system. Having a high-quality lock that is in good working condition will keep your family and belongings safe from intrusions by unwanted criminals. Regular maintenance and inspection of the lock can ensure that it's operating properly. If you find any problems with your patio door lock, it is recommended that you seek assistance from a professional. A locksmith or a door hardware expert can provide the expert guidance that you require and help to ensure that your new patio door lock is set up properly.
repairmywindowsanddoors will need to identify the existing handle on your patio door. The keyway is where the key goes to unlock or lock the door. When purchasing an entirely new lock, you can accurately describe the keyway by taking a photo.
You should also take note of the type and size of your lock. Different types of locks have different mounting holes, directions of swing and sizes of hasps. These details will help determine the type of patio door lock you should purchase for your sliding door.
Surface mount locks, such as those shown here by Cal-Tech are easy to install and can be used on the majority of sliding patio doors. The handle that was previously installed must be removed using a screwdriver. However, the surface mount lock can be installed after the screws are removed.
Steel mortise style locks are more commonly found on aluminum and wooden patio doors. They are installed in a pocket that is cut into the door's frame. They are more difficult than other patio door lock types to replace, but with a bit of time and effort you can accomplish it.
You'll need to know the size of the mortise lock you have to be able to find an equivalent replacement. Most mortise locks share the same overall dimensions however there are a few key distinctions. The main difference is that certain mortise locks have keyways that are vertical and others have keys that are at a 45-degree angle.