Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors experience wear and tear which can cause locks that fail. However, there are easy and efficient ways to restore your uPVC patio door's security.
These simple fixes will ensure your home is secure regardless of whether you re-align the lock or clean the locking mechanism.
Clean the Lock
While patio doors are a great option to bring the outside in and keep out the elements, they can also be an issue for security when your lock isn't functioning as it should. Over time, wear, tear, cold and hot weather dirt, and other debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. With a little care you can ensure that the locks on your patio door always work effectively.
It's important to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This will help remove any coatings or dirt that might be hindering the lock from working correctly. Start by wiping the moving parts of your patio door lock using an aqueous cloth. Then apply a scouring pad or a damp, rough cloth to scrub the dirt-infested parts of the door frame and frame. It is recommended to wipe the entire lock with dry cloth to get rid of any remaining dampness and allow it to dry completely before making use of it again.
If your patio door uses pin-tumbler latches you can apply powdered graphite to the key. You can also use a Teflon lubricant like WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This kind of lubricant is easy to apply, and doesn't break down with time. If you are unable to find the right lubricant to use with your lock, make use of a pencil with a larger tip. Insert the pencil into the lock and jiggle it around to spread the graphite.
The tracks for sliding patio doors also require regular maintenance to keep them free of dirt, dust, and debris. These tracks are especially susceptible to ice, snow, and other particles, which can cause them get stuck or to bind. This can make it difficult for your patio door to open and shut.
Clean the track rails and rollers of sliding patio doors by removing any weather stripping that is damaged or dirty. Clean it, then replace it. The rollers of patio doors can be cleaned and sprayed down with an oil that is nonstick.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French Doors, like sliding patios, are operated with 3 to 4 or sometimes, 5 point locking mechanisms. This includes the lock cylinder and handle that is operated by a key. These doors require maintenance, oiling of the moving parts. This can be done using a thin oil (never WD40) and should be done every year.
If hinges that are sagging don't cause the problem, it could be that the door isn't aligned. It may be rubbing against or catching the strike plate's hole in the frame. Remove the strike plate and use a sharp tool to increase the size of the mortise. This will allow the latch to fit into the hole, and also prevent it from rubbing against the frame.
Measure the width of the cylinder with an object of book or wood that fits 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 of the cylinder.
Check the width of the lock.
If your patio door latch isn't able to turn even after cleaning and lubricating, it's possible that it's not in alignment with the strike plate hole. Verify that the door is in a balanced position, and that the hinge screws are tight. In most instances, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards can fix the problem.
Most of the time, the issue occurs when the strike of the lock is too small for the latch to engage. In this instance, you can widen the hole with the hammer and chisel. Then, test the latch to ensure it doesn't rub against the jamb frame of the door or fall the frame.
You must identify the kind of mortise lock that you have before purchasing a replacement. You can do this by taking a look at the faceplate of the lock and noting if it is square or round. Look at each screw hole on the current lock, and note their size. This information will help you find an alternative that is the same width and fits perfectly into the hole that you already have.
In addition to identifying the mortise lock that is currently in use, you should also examine it for any nicks or bends that may need repairing. A badly damaged or bent latch is more likely to break than one that hasn't been utilized often, so make sure to replace the lock with a brand new one that is secure in the event you notice any signs of damage or wear.
Once you've decided on the kind of lock replacement you require It's time to begin the actual repair. Take the old handle and spindle out of your patio door, and then insert the new one. Start by putting in the interior handle by aligning it with the spindle and then securing it by using the two screws or bolts that secure it. Once the interior handle is in, install the handle that is outside and screw it into place as well. Once you have completed these steps Test the handles to make sure that they are able to open and close easily and that the latch is in contact properly with the strikeplate.
Check the Strike on the door.
The strike plate and door latch are two pieces which work together to lock the door. Misaligned strike plate and door latches can result in the latch not being able to latch the door properly. This issue is usually simple to solve.
Check the receiving holes of the strike plate to make sure they are clear of obstructions like dirt or plastic plugs. Then, loosen the keeper screws that hold the strike plate in place and allow it to move horizontally, but not removing it from the door frame. Then adjust the strike plate to ensure that its holes for receiving are aligned with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted then tighten the screws and then test the door to determine if it shuts smoothly with the new adjustment.
Door strike plates can be difficult to access for homeowners with sliding patio doors, however they are essential to lock and unlock your door. These plates are usually located on the top and bottom of the door jamb, where they support the door's latch. The door latch is able to slide into the strike plate to create an airtight seal when closed. If the strike plate is damaged or rusted, or if it is not installed correctly the latch might not be able to lock the door properly.
One of the most common reasons for a patio door lock to become stuck or not close is a misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This can be verified using the "lipstick" test. Apply some lipstick across the edge of the deadbolt and then cover it with masking tape. The lipstick will leave the mark when you shut the door. This will reveal exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If patio door repairs is too high or low it is possible to adjust the strike plate.
If your sliding patio door locks are not working properly, they can keep your home safe from burglars. It is imperative to fix this problem as soon as possible. By following these simple steps, you can fix the lock on your patio door and restore its functionality in no time.