The No. 1 Question Everybody Working In Patio Door Lock Repair Should Know How To Answer
Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors go through wear and tear which can cause lock malfunctions. However, there are easy and efficient methods that can restore your uPVC patio door's security.
More suggestions can make your home safer regardless of whether you re-align the lock or clean the mechanism.
Clean the Lock
Although patio doors are a great option to let in the outside and keep the elements out, they can also be a security risk in the event that your lock isn't operating as it should. Over time wear and tear, hot and cold weather, dirt and debris can take their toll on the lock of your patio door and make it difficult to open. With a little maintenance you can make sure that the locks on your patio door always function effectively.
To begin with, it's important to clean the lock on your patio door and all of its moving parts. This will help get rid of any coatings or dirt that could be preventing your lock from functioning properly. Start by wiping the moving parts on your patio door lock using a damp cloth. Then, use a scouring cloth or a rough damp cloth to scrub the areas that are soiled of the door frame and frame. Then wipe the lock with a dry cloth to get rid of any moisture. Allow it to 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 by using an lubricant based on Teflon such as 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 to find the right lubricant for your needs You can use a pencil with an extremely thick tip. Put the pencil in the lock, then shake it to distribute the graphite.
Tracks for sliding patio doors require regular maintenance to keep them free of dirt, dust, and debris. These tracks are especially susceptible to snow, ice and other debris that can cause them jam or bind. This can make it difficult for your patio door to be opened and closed.
Sliding patio door track rails and rollers can be cleaned by removing any dirty or damaged weather stripping and then cleaning it, before reinstalling it. Patio door rollers can also be cleaned and sprayed with an oil that is non-stick.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC french doors, like sliding patio doors, work by using 3 to 4 or sometimes 5-point locking mechanisms which include the lock cylinder and handle operated by keys. These doors require maintenance, lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done with a thin oil but not WD40. It is recommended to do it at least once per year.
If sagging hinges aren't a reason, the door could be misaligned and caught or striking the strike plate hole in the frame. Take off the strike plate and employ a sharp tool increase the size of the mortise. This allows the latch to fit perfectly in the hole, and also prevents rubbing or catching on the frame.
Measure the length of the cylinder using an object of wood or a book that can be inserted into the gap above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is measured from the outside of door to the center of cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw until the end cylinder.
Check the lock's width
If your patio door latch is hard to turn, even after oiling and cleaning it could be because it's not aligned with the strike plate. Examine if the door is in balance and whether the hinge screws are tight however, in many instances it is possible to move the strike plate up or down could fix the problem.
Oftentimes, the problem occurs when the lock's strike is too small for the latch to engage. In this situation, you need to widen the hole with the hammer and chisel. Then, test the latch to ensure that it doesn't rub against the jamb frame of the door or get caught on it.
It is important to identify the type of mortise lock you are using before you purchase the replacement. This can be done by looking at the faceplate of the lock and noting if it is square or round. Examine each screw hole in the existing lock and note their dimensions. This will help you to locate a replacement lock that is exactly the same size and will fit in the hole that you already have.
You'll need to identify the mortise lock, and then examine it for scratches, bends, or other damage that requires to be fixed. A bent or damaged latch is more prone to break than one that's been utilized often, so make sure to replace the lock with a brand new secure and safe version in the event you notice any signs of wear or damage.
After you've examined the lock and decided on the type of replacement you'll need, it's time to start working on the actual repair. The spindle and handle must be removed from the doorway to the patio. Insert the new handle. Start by installing the interior handle. Align it with the spindle, and then secure it in by using two screws or bolts. Once the interior handle is installed, you can install the handle that is outside and screw it in the position as well. After you've completed the steps you can test the new handles to ensure they are able to open and close with ease and that the latch is catching correctly with the strike plate.
Check the Door's Strike
The strike plate and the door latch are two pieces that work together to secure the door. A misaligned strike plate or door latches will cause the latch to not latch the door properly. Fortunately, the issue is usually easy to correct.
Examine the holes that receive the strike plate to ensure they are clear of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the keeper screws that hold the strike plate in place, allowing it to move horizontally, but not separating it from the frame of the door. Adjust the strike plate to align its holes for receiving with the latch hooks of the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted, tighten the screws and test the door to determine whether it shuts easily with the new adjustment.
These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners with sliding patio doors. However, they are essential for locking and unlocking your door. The plates made of metal are located at the top and bottom jambs of your door, where they serve as the support for the latch. The door latch is inserted into the strike plate and forms the seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or is not properly installed the latch might not properly lock the door.
A misalignment of the latch and strike plate is a common reason for a patio lock to not close or stick. This can be checked with the "lipstick" test. Rub some lipstick across the edge of the deadbolt, then cover it with masking tape. The lipstick will leave the mark when you shut the door. This will indicate exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low, you can adjust the strike plate.
Sliding patio door locks help keep your home safe from burglars. If they're not working correctly, you should fix the problem quickly. Follow these easy steps to fix your patio door lock and restore its function.