Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, wear and tear can lead to lock malfunctions. There are a few basic steps you can take to ensure the security of your uPVC door.
It's about realigning the lock or cleaning the locking mechanism these simple fixes will make your home more secure.
Clean the Lock
Although patio doors are a great way to let in the outside and keep out the elements but they can also pose security risks if your lock isn't working as it should. Over time, wear and tear, hot and cold weather dirt, and other debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. Fortunately, with some minor maintenance you can make sure that the locks on your patio door always perform properly.
It is important to first clean the patio door lock as well as all moving parts. This will help remove any grime or coatings that may be preventing your lock from functioning effectively. Start by wiping all the moving parts of the lock for your patio door with an aqueous cloth. Then you can use a scouring paper or a rough damp cloth to scrub the dirt-infested parts of the door and frame. Then, wipe the lock down using a dry towel to remove any remaining moisture. Allow it to air-dry before using it.
If your patio door uses pin-tumbler latches You can lubricate it by applying powdered Graphite on the key. You can also apply a Teflon oil like WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant is easy to apply and it won't disintegrate as time passes. If you're unable to locate an appropriate lubricant, you might try using a pencil that has a thick tip. Put the pencil into the lock and jiggle it around to distribute the graphite.
Sliding patio door tracks also require regular maintenance to ensure they're free of dirt, dust and other debris. They are particularly susceptible to snow, ice and other particles, which could cause them to block or become stuck. This can make it difficult for your patio door to open and close.
The sliding rails of the patio door track and rollers can be cleaned by removing any weather stripping that is damaged or dirty, cleaning them, then installing it. The rollers for patio doors can be cleaned and sprayed down with an oil that is nonstick.
Lubricate the Moving Parts
uPVC French Doors, similar to sliding patios, operate by using 3 to 4 or sometimes, 5 point locking mechanisms. This includes the handle and lock cylinder that is operated by keys. These doors also require maintenance, including lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done using a thin oil, but never WD40. It should be done at least once per year.
If sagging hinges aren't the cause, the door could be misaligned and catching or hitting the strike plate hole in the frame. Take off the strike plate and use a sharp tool to enlarge its mortise. This allows the latch to sit correctly in the hole, and also prevents getting caught or rubbing against the frame.
While the cylinder is out of the way, measure its width with an object or a piece of wood that will fit in the gap of adjustment screw 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.
Verify the width of the lock.
If your patio door latch isn't able to turn even after oiling and cleaning it could be because it is not aligned with the strike plate. Verify that the door is in balance and if the hinge screws are tight However, in many cases shifting the strike plate upwards or downwards can fix the issue.
sneak a peek at this site may not engage properly in the event that the strike of the lock is not large enough. In this case, enlarge the opening using an hammer and chisel. Then test the latch to ensure it does not rub against the door jamb frame or catch on it.
Before you purchase a replacement lock, it is important to determine what kind of mortise lock you have. This can be done by looking at the faceplate on the lock and determining whether it is square or round. Then, look at the screw holes on the current lock and note the dimensions of each. This will help you to locate an alternative lock that is exactly the same size and will fit in the hole that you already have.
In addition to identifying the mortise lock that is currently in use, you'll also need to check it for any nicks or bends that may need repairing. A damaged or bent latch is more likely than one that's been used a lot to break. Replace the lock if you notice evidence of damage.
Once you've decided on the kind of lock replacement you need It's time to start the actual repair. Remove the handle and spindle from the patio door, and then install the new one. Start by putting in the handle in the interior by aligning it with the spindle, and then securing it in place by using the two screws or bolts that secure it. Install the exterior handle following the interior handle. Once you have completed these steps check the handles to ensure that they can be shut and open easily and that the latch works correctly with the strikeplate.
Check the door's Strike
The strike plate and door latch are two parts that work together to secure the door. Misaligned strike plate and door latches will result in the latch not being able to latch the door correctly. This problem is usually very easy to fix.
First, check the strike plate's holes for receiving to ensure that they are free of obstructions, such as dirt or plastic plugs. Release 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. Adjust the strike plate to align its holes for receiving with latch hooks of the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted, tighten all screws and test to see whether the door shuts smoothly.
These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners who have sliding patio doors. However they are vital to lock and unlock your door. The plates made of metal are located on the top and bottom jambs of your door, where they support its latch. Then, the door latch is able to slide into the strike plate to create a seal when closed. If the strike plate is damaged or rusted or not properly installed, the latch may not lock the door properly.
A misalignment between the strike plate and latch is one common cause for the patio lock not to close or stick. The most effective way to test for this is with the "lipstick test." Apply some lipstick on the outside of the deadbolt, then attach masking tape over it. When you shut the door the lipstick will leave a mark on the tape, indicating exactly where the latch contacts the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low, you can alter the strike plate.
If your sliding patio door locks aren't functioning properly, they can keep your home secure from intruders. You need to repair the issue as soon as possible. By following these simple steps, you can fix your patio door's lock and regain its functionality in a matter of minutes.