Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, wear and tear could cause lock malfunctions. Fortunately, there are several easy and efficient methods that can restore your uPVC patio door's security.
It's about realigning the lock or cleaning the mechanism that locks, these quick fixes can help you make your home more secure.
Clean the Lock
Patio doors are ideal to let the outdoors in and keeping the elements out. However, they can be an issue for security in the event that the lock isn't working properly. Over time, wear, tear, hot and cold weather, dirt, and debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. Fortunately, with some minor maintenance you can ensure that your patio door's locks will always work properly.
To begin with, it's important to clean the lock of your patio door and all its moving parts. This will help to remove any dirt or coatings that could be preventing your lock from functioning effectively. Begin by wiping the moving parts of your patio door's lock with a damp, clean cloth. then employ a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub the hard-to-reach parts of the door and frame that are covered in dirt. Then wipe the lock with a dry towel to get rid of any moisture. Let it air dry before using it.
If you have a patio door that uses pin tumbler latch mechanisms it is possible to apply lubrication to the lock by applying powdered graphite to the key or using a Teflon-based lubricant such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This kind of lubricant is easy to apply and doesn't break down with time. If you're unable find the correct lubricant for your lock, you can apply a pencil that has a thicker tip. Put the pencil in the lock, and shake it to distribute the graphite.
The tracks for sliding patio doors also require regular maintenance to ensure that they're free of dust, dirt and other debris. They are particularly susceptible to snow, ice and other debris, which could cause them to jam or bind. This can make it difficult for your patio door to be opened and closed.
You can clean the track rails and rollers on sliding patio doors by removing any weather stripping that is damaged or dirty. Clean patio doors repairs RepairMyWindowsAndDoors and replace it. The rollers for patio doors can be cleaned and sprayed down with a nonstick lubricant.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French doors, like sliding patios, operate with 3 to 4 or sometimes 5 points locking mechanisms. This includes the handle and lock cylinder that is operated by a key. These doors also require maintenance, including lubrication of the moving parts. This can be accomplished using a thin oil (never WD40) and is recommended to be done at least once per year.
If hinges that are sagging don't cause the problem it could be because the door is misaligned. It may be rubbing against or catching the strike plate's hole in the frame. Remove the strike plate, and employ a sharp tool to increase the size of the mortise. This will allow the latch to fit properly into the hole and prevent it from scratching against the frame.
While the cylinder is out of the way and out of the way, measure its width using a book or piece of wood that will fit in the adjustment screw gap above the lock. The outer dimension is measured from the outside of the door to the center cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center 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 oiling and cleaning it's possible that it's not aligned with the strike plate. Check if your door is in a balanced position, and if the hinge screws are secure. In many cases, however, simply moving the strike plate upwards or downwards can fix the problem.
The most common issue is when the lock's strike is too small for the latch to properly engage. In this instance, you can widen the hole with a chisel and hammer. Then, test the latch so that it doesn't touch the door jamb frame or catch the frame.
You should identify the type mortise lock you currently are using before you purchase an alternative. This can be done by taking a look at the faceplate of the lock and determining whether it is round or square. Then, take a look at the screw holes on the existing lock and note the size of each. This will help you to locate a replacement lock that is exactly the same width and will fit in the hole that you already have.
In addition to identifying the current mortise lock, you'll also want to inspect it for any nicks or bends that may need repairing. A damaged or bent latch is more likely to break than one that's been utilized often, so make sure to replace the lock with a new one that is secure when you spot any indications of damage or wear.
Once you've inspected the lock and decided on the type of replacement you'll need now is the time to start working on the actual repair. The old handle and spindle must be removed from the patio door. Introduce the new handle. Begin by installing the handle in the interior, aligning it with the spindle, and then fixing it by using the two bolts or screws that secure it. Install the exterior handle following the interior handle. After you've completed these steps, test the handles to ensure that they are able to open and close easily and that the latch is in contact properly with the strikeplate.
Make sure the door's strike is checked
The door latch and strike plate are two parts of the lock that work together to ensure that the latch locks the door. An incorrectly aligned strike plate and door latches can cause the latch to not latch the door correctly. Fortunately, the issue is often easy to fix.
Examine the holes that receive the strike plate to ensure they are clear of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Remove the screws that hold the strike plate in place. This allows it to move vertically but it will not be able to separate from the frame. Then, you can adjust the strike plate until its receiving holes align with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted tighten the screws, and test the door to determine if it shuts smoothly with the new adjustment.
Door strike plates can be a bit difficult to locate for homeowners with sliding patio doors, but they are essential to lock and unlock your door. These plates are usually placed on the top and bottom of the door jamb where they support the door's latch. Then, the door latch is able to slide into the strike plate to form the seal when it is closed. If the strike plate is damaged or rusted, or if it is not properly installed the latch might not be able to lock the door properly.
A misalignment between the strike plate and latch is one common cause for a patio lock to not close or stick. The easiest way to check for this is with the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt, and then apply masking tape over it. The lipstick will leave a mark when you close the door. This will show you exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low, you can easily alter the strike plate.
Sliding patio door locks help protect your home from burglars. If they're not functioning properly, you need to repair the issue quickly. Follow these easy steps to fix your patio door lock and restore its functionality.