Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, the wear and tear can lead to lock malfunctions. There are a few simple steps you can follow to restore the security of your uPVC door.
Whether it's realigning the lock or cleaning the mechanism for locking, these quick fixes can help you make your home more secure.
Clean the Lock
Although patio doors are a great way to let the outside in and keep the elements out however, they can also pose security risks in the event that your lock isn't operating as it should. With time, wear and tear, hot and cold weather, dirt, and debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. Fortunately, with a little care you can make sure that your patio door's locks will always function properly.
It's important to first clean the patio door lock as well as all moving parts. patio door repairs near me will help get rid of any grime and coatings that may be preventing the lock from functioning as it should. Begin by wiping down all the moving parts on your patio door lock using a damp cloth. Then you can use a scouring paper or rough damp cloth to scrub the areas that are soiled of the door frame and frame. It is recommended to wipe the entire lock using dry cloth to get rid of any remaining dampness and allow it to air dry prior to using it again.
If your patio door is equipped with pin-tumbler locks, you can lubricate it by applying powdered Graphite on the key. You can also use a Teflon lubricant like WD-40 Multi Use Product. This kind of lubricant is easy to apply and it won't disintegrate with time. If you're not able to find a suitable lubricant You might try using a pencil that has an extremely sharp tip. Place the pencil into the lock, and shake it around to spread the graphite.
Regular maintenance is also essential to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors free from dirt, dust and other debris. These tracks are especially susceptible to snow, ice and other debris, which could cause them to get stuck or to bind. This can make it difficult for your patio door to open and shut.
Tracks for sliding patio doors and rollers can be cleaned by removing any dirty or damaged weather stripping and cleaning them before replacing it. Patio door rollers can also be cleaned and sprayed with a nonstick lubricant.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French doors, like sliding patios, operate using 3 to 4, or sometimes 5 points locking mechanisms. They include the handle and lock cylinder that is operated with keys. They also require maintenance, and specifically lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done using an oil that is thin (never WD40) and should be done once per year.
If hinges that are sagging don't cause the issue it could be because the door isn't aligned. It could be rubbing against or catching the strike plate's opening in the frame. Remove the strike plate and use a sharp tool to enlarge the mortise. This will permit the latch to fit into the hole, and also prevent it from hitting the frame.
Once the cylinder is cleared of the way and out of the way, measure its width using the help of a book or piece wood that will fit in the gap between the adjustment screw and the lock. The outer dimension is the distance from the outside of the door to the middle of the cylinder, and the inner dimension extends from the center of the adjustment screw to the end of the cylinder.
Verify the width of the lock.
If your patio door latch is difficult to turn even after oiling and cleaning, it's possible that it is not aligned with the strike plate. Check to see if the door is properly balanced and if the hinge screws are secure, but in many cases shifting the strike plate upwards or downwards can correct the issue.
The latch might not work properly if the strike of the lock is too small. In this case, enlarge the opening with the hammer and chisel. Then test the latch to ensure that it doesn't touch the jamb frame of the door or fall the frame.
It is important to identify the type of mortise lock that you are using before you purchase the replacement. This can be done by looking at the faceplate on the lock and determining whether it is round or square. Take a look at each screw hole on the existing lock, and note their size. This will help you find an alternative that is of the same size and is a perfect fit for your existing hole.
In addition to identifying the mortise lock that is currently in use, you should also examine it for any scratches or bends that may need repairing. A badly bent or damaged latch is more likely than one that has frequently used to break. Replace the lock if it shows evidence of damage.
After you've examined the lock and determined which type of replacement you need now is the time to start working on the actual repair. The old spindle and handle must be removed from the doorway to the patio. Introduce the new handle. Begin by installing the handle in the interior, aligning it with the spindle, and then fixing it with the two screws or bolts which hold it. Once the handle in the interior is installed, put in the exterior handle and screw it in the position as well. After 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.
Check the Strike on the door.
The door latch and strike plate are the two components of the lock that work together to ensure that the latch locks the door. If they are not aligned properly, the latch won't latch the door shut correctly. Fortunately, the issue is usually easy to correct.
First, check the strike plate's holes for receiving to ensure they are clear of obstructions, such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the keeper screws that keep the strike plate in place and allow it to move horizontally, but not detaching it from the frame of your door. Adjust the strike plate so that it aligns its receiving holes with the 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.
Door strike plates can be difficult to locate for homeowners with sliding patio doors, however they're crucial to lock and unlock your door. The plates made of metal are located at the top and bottom jambs of the door, where they serve as the support for the latch. The door latch slides into the strike plate, creating the seal when it is closed. If the strike plate is damaged or rusted, or if it is not installed correctly, the latch may not be able to lock the door properly.
One of the most common reasons for an outdoor door lock to not close or not close is a misalignment between the latch and the strike plate. The most effective way to test for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Apply some lipstick on the outside of the deadbolt, and then apply masking tape over it. When you close the door, the lipstick will leave marks on the tape, showing you exactly where the latch contacts the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low, you can adjust the strike plate.
If your sliding patio door locks are not working properly they can help keep your home safe from burglars. It is imperative to resolve this issue as quickly as possible. Follow these steps to repair your patio door lock and restore its functionality.