Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors undergo wear and tear which can result in lock malfunctions. However, there are simple and efficient ways to restore your uPVC patio door's security.
These simple fixes will make your home safer regardless of whether you re-align the lock or clean the locking mechanism.
Clean the Lock
Patio doors are great for letting the outdoors inside and keeping the elements out. However, they can be risky for security in the event that the lock isn't working correctly. Over time, wear and tear, hot and cold weather dirt, and other debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. With a little effort, you can make sure that your patio door's lock always works correctly.
To begin with, it's important to clean your patio door's lock and all its moving parts. This will help remove any dirt or coatings that might be hindering the lock from working effectively. Start by wiping down all the moving parts of the lock for your patio door using a damp cloth. then use a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub any difficult-to-access parts of the door and frame that are covered in dirt. It is recommended to wipe the entire lock with dry cloth to get rid of any remaining dampness and allow it to air dry before applying it to the next time.
If you have an outdoor door that has pin tumbler latch mechanisms it is possible to lubricate the lock by applying graphite powdered to the key or by using an lubricant based on Teflon like WD-40 Multi-Use. This kind of lubricant can be applied easily and does not dissolve over time. If you are unable to find the right lubricant to use with your lock, you can use a pencil with more of 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 dirt, dust and other debris. These tracks are especially vulnerable to snow and ice, which could cause them to become stuck or slack which makes it difficult for your patio doors to open and close.
You can clean the track rails and rollers of sliding patio doors by removing weather stripping that is dirty or damaged. Clean it, and then replace it. The rollers for patio doors can be cleaned and sprayed down with an oil that is non-stick.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French Doors, similar to sliding patios, operate using 3 to 4, or occasionally 5 points locking mechanisms. They include the handle and lock cylinder which is operated by the key. These doors also need maintenance, and specifically lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done with a thin oil but not WD40. This should be done at least once a year.
If sagging hinges aren't a reason, the door could be skewed and catch or striking the strike plate hole within the frame. Take off the strike plate and use a sharp tool to increase the size of its mortise. This will permit the latch to fit properly into the hole and stop it from scratching against the frame.
While the cylinder is out of the way, measure its width with an object or a piece of wood that fits into the gap of adjustment screw above the lock. The outer dimension is measured from the outside of 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 width
If your patio door latch is difficult to turn, even after cleaning and lubricating, there's a possibility that it is out of alignment with the strike plate hole. Verify that the door is in balance and whether the hinge screws are secure however, in many instances it is possible to move the strike plate up or down can fix the issue.
The most common issue is when the lock's strike is too small for the latch to engage. In this case you'll need to expand the hole with either a hammer or chisel, and then test the latch to make sure that it connects to the strike plate in a smooth manner without rubbing against or getting caught on the door's frame jamb.
It is important to identify the type of mortise lock you currently have before purchasing an alternative. This can be done by looking at the end faceplate and noting whether it is round or square. Take a look at each screw hole on the current lock and note the size. This information will allow you to find an alternative lock that is exactly the same size and will fit in the hole you have already.
You'll need to locate the mortise lock, and then examine it for any bends, scratches or other damage that needs to be fixed. A damaged or bent latch is more likely than one that's frequently used to break. Replace the lock if it shows indications of damage.
Once you've identified the type of lock replacement you need, it's now time to start the actual repair. The old handle and spindle should be removed from the patio door. Insert the new handle. Start by installing the inside handle. Align it with the spindle and then secure it in position using two bolts or screws. Once the interior handle is in, install the handle that is outside and screw it into place as well. Once you've completed these steps, you can test the new handles to ensure that they are able to open and close with ease and that the latch is catching properly with the strike plate.
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. If patio door repair near me RepairMyWindowsAndDoors aren't aligned correctly, the latch won't latch the door properly. Fortunately, this problem is often easy to fix.
Check the holes for receiving of the strike plate to ensure they are clear of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Release the screws that hold the strike plate. This will allow it to move vertically but it will not be able to separate from the frame. Then, you can adjust the strike plate to ensure that its holes for receiving are aligned with the latch hooks on the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted then tighten the screws and test the door to see whether it locks smoothly after the new adjustment.
These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners who have sliding patio doors. However, they are essential to lock and unlock your door. The metal plates are situated between the top and bottom jambs of your door, where they support its latch. The door latch slides into this strike plate and creates a seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or not properly installed, it could stop the latch from locking the door securely.
A misalignment of the strike plate and latch is one common cause for the patio lock not to close or remain in place. The easiest way to check for this is with the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick on the edge of the deadbolt, and then put masking tape on it. When you close the door the lipstick will leave marks on the tape that will show exactly where the latch contacts the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low it is possible to alter the strike plate.
Locks for sliding patio doors help protect your home from burglars. If they're not functioning correctly, you should repair the issue quickly. Follow these simple steps to repair your patio door lock and restore it's functionality.