Patio Door Lock Replacement: It's Not As Expensive As You Think
When It's Time For Patio Door Lock Replacement
If your patio door lock doesn't work correctly, it might be time to replace it. It's a fairly simple procedure.
The first step is to determine the type of lock you own. This can be done by observing the location of the keyway inside the lock assembly. Some keys have vertical keyways while others are tilted at 45 degrees.
Identifying Your Existing Lock
The patio door is one of the most targeted points of entry into homes for burglars. This is due to the fact that it typically opens into an open or ventilating position and is often situated at the back of the house, making it easy to conceal a ladder or other climbing equipment. This makes the security of your patio doors important regardless of whether you wish to keep children from leaving your property or deter an intruder who is determined to break into your home.
You should familiarize yourself with the locks you currently have in order to help you select the most suitable replacement patio door lock. This will allow you to identify the kind of lock, its features and security level. This is an excellent step to take prior to shopping for new hardware since it will ensure that the new lock is perfect and is securely secured.
In many instances you can identify the type of lock you have by inspecting the exterior of your door's frame, or looking at the inside of the handle. You can also examine the locking mechanism of your door, whether it has a latch and whether a key is required to engage it.
The most common lock used in uPVC patio doors is a euro cylinder which operates with either a handle or a key. The cylinder has a sleeve which holds the pin in place and prevents it being removed from lock. The euro cylinder may offer some degree of security, based on the manufacturer. If the lock has been inspected for anti-snap approval, it will also be capable of providing some degree of security. However we at SheffLOCK, we always recommend the 3 star diamond accredited (TS007 ULTION) euro cylinder. It provides a lot more protection against lock snapping.
A mortise lock is a type of steel lock that is incorporated into the frame of the patio door. This type of lock can be found on both wood and aluminum patio doors. If installed correctly, they can be very secure since the bolt is recessed in the frame. This means that an intruder would need to cut the patio door frame or window sill to gain access to the lock.
Find the Width of Your Door
Patio doors are typically the most vulnerable points of entry to your home, particularly when they have a lot of glass installed. Installing locks that are of the highest quality will ensure your home is secure and could save you the cost of insurance. Locks for patio doors are generally of two types:
There are a variety of lock options depending on your style and functionality. Certain locks come with bolts that twist, while others use mortise and lock keys, and locking systems that have hook latches.
Use a tape measure along the edge of your patio door to record the thickness. It is recommended to determine the thickness of the frame of the door (known as a jamb) in several places, and take the smallest measurement to to determine which lock type is the best for you.
If you're planning to install a brand new patio door, then you must take a measurement of the opening width rough. This is the space that the door will fit into and is the measurement that the manufacturer must have to supply you with a new door. If you're unsure of what size to choose, ask your supplier for advice or see our helpful guide:
You should also take a measurement of the approximate height of your opening, but this can be a challenge because the floor of your house may not be level. You can take measurements in three locations including the center as well as both sides and corners, and then note the smallest measurement in order to determine your height.
Once you've got the measurements, you can select a new lock that will fit your door and your home. You can also install an additional security lock to give you additional security against intruders, such as a Patlock handle lock that is designed to prevent the door being opened even if it's locked or latched.

For the highest level of security For maximum security, a central rail-operated key-operated lock is an excellent option. It locks the patio door at several points, and requires only one turn of the key. These locks offer a higher security and may reduce your home insurance rates.
Check the end-face plate
It is important to be aware of the specifics of the lock you have in order to choose the right replacement. This will ensure that the new handle and spindle fit on the patio door and that the new latch will be secured by the latch's hasp.
You can determine the kind of mortise lock you own by looking at the faceplate at the end. This will help you determine what mortise lock you are using. You should also take note of the screw's size to ensure that you get the correct replacement for your existing screws.
You should also examine the location of your existing keyway. There are a variety of patio door locks, and it is crucial that you know which one your lock is currently using to be able to find the appropriate keyway opening.
Check the latch keeper's position at the edge of your door jamb. If the latch keeper on the door jamb is too far back, it will be hard to catch the latch hasp. The door will not close properly. This can be fixed by putting washers behind the latch keeper.
If you own an E2105 mortise lock the latch keeper should be about 1 inch from the edge of the frame. You may also want measure the length of the latch holder.
In most instances, the latch holder is usually higher than the keyway opening of your existing lock. This is to ensure that it does not interfere with the operation of your sliding door.
If the latch keeper on your door is not at the right height, you can lower it by putting an nut or screw into the bottom of the keeper and tightening it. Be careful not to overtighten this screw, since it could damage the mechanism of the lock or the door. If the latch holder is too high you can raise the latch holder by tightening a nut or screw on the top of the keeper on the jamb.
Observe the Screw Holes
Certain patio door locks utilize bolts to secure doors, whereas others use a key-operated lock cylinder. Both types of locks need regular maintenance to function correctly. To ensure the security of your patio door, Lowe's offers a wide range of sliding glass door hardware and locking solutions. You can find a variety of lock styles, such as bolts that turn, cylinder locks that use a key and mortise locks with spring-loaded hook latch.
Some homeowners are having trouble getting their patio door to lock because the latch has fallen or isn't aligned with the strike plate (also called the jamb for the door). In some instances, the issue may be due to minor shifts in the door or water intrusion that has affected the moveable parts of your lock. In these instances, a little light oil may be all that is required to get your door to lock properly.
The best place to start is by measuring the width of your current lock. A tape measure or ruler can be used to measure the measurement and allow you to choose the lock replacement that is the correct size. After that, examine the face plate to determine if it is round or square. This information is crucial because it will help you choose a new lock that has the right screw hole type.
It is also important to be aware of the location of the screw holes on your existing lock. If they are on the top or bottom of the leading edge then a new lock with an extended bolt will be necessary. Installing a tamper-proof lock with a screw that cannot be removed is an alternative.
The process of installing the lock is simple once you've selected the lock that is best suited to your door. replace upvc door lock mechanism is always recommended to seek out professional help if you are unsure about the installation of a patio lock. A professional locksmith or door hardware expert can offer expert advice and make sure that your lock has been installed correctly. Your patio door locks can be a reliable security device for you and your family if they are maintained properly.