Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors go through wear and tear that can result in locks that fail. However, there are simple and effective ways to restore your uPVC patio door's security.
These easy fixes will ensure your home is secure regardless of whether you re-align the lock or clean the locking mechanism.
Clean the Lock
Patio doors are great to let the outdoors in while keeping the elements out. However they could pose an issue for security if the lock doesn't work properly. With time wear and tear, cold and hot weather, dirt and debris can affect the lock of your patio door and make it difficult to open. With some minor maintenance, you can ensure the locks on your patio door always work effectively.
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 properly. Start by wiping the moving parts of your patio door lock with an aqueous cloth. Then, use a scouring cloth or a rough damp cloth to scrub the areas that are soiled of the door frame and frame. You should then wipe down the entire lock using a dry cloth to remove any remaining dampness, and allow it to dry completely before making use of it again.
If you have an exterior door that is fitted with pin tumbler latch mechanisms, you can apply lubrication to the lock by applying graphite powdered to the key or using an lubricant based on Teflon like WD-40 Multi-Use. This type of lubricant is easy to apply, and it doesn't dissolve over time. If you are unable to find the right lubricant for your lock, you can make use of a pencil with a more of a thicker tip. Insert the pencil into the lock and move it around a bit to distribute the graphite.
The tracks for sliding patio doors also require regular maintenance to ensure that they're free of dust, dirt, and debris. These tracks are especially vulnerable to snow and ice, which can cause them be stuck or jammed 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 damaged or dirty weather stripping. Clean it and replace it. The same is true to patio door rollers which can be wiped down and sprayed with non-stick lubricant to help them move freely.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French Doors, like sliding patios, are operated using 3 to 4, or occasionally 5 point locking mechanisms. They include the lock cylinder and handle which is operated by a key. double glazed patio door repairs require maintenance, and specifically lubrication of the moving parts. This can be accomplished using a thin oil (never WD40) and should be done every year.
If sagging hinges don't cause the issue, it could be that the door isn't aligned. It may be rubbing or catching against the strike plate's opening in the frame. The solution is to take off the strike plate, and then use a sharp chisel to enlarge the mortise it rests in. This allows the latch to fit perfectly in the hole and prevents getting caught or rubbing against the frame.
Find the diameter of the cylinder using a piece of wood or a book that can be inserted into the gap above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is the distance from the outside of the door to the center of the cylinder, while the inner measurement runs from the center of the adjustment screw to the end of the cylinder.
Check the lock's length
If your patio door latch is difficult to turn, even after cleaning and lubricating, it's possible that it is out of alignment with the strike plate hole. Verify that the door is properly balanced and whether the hinge screws are secure however, in many instances it is possible to move the strike plate up or down could fix the problem.
Oftentimes, the problem occurs when the strike of the lock is too small for the latch to engage. In this case you'll have to increase 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 catching on the door's frame jamb.
It is important to identify the type of mortise lock you currently have before buying a replacement. This can be done by looking at the end faceplate and observing whether it is square or round. Take a look at each screw hole on the existing lock, and note their size. This will enable you to find an alternative lock that is exactly the same size and fits 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 bends or scratches that may need repairing. A bent or damaged latch is more likely to break than one that hasn't been frequently used, so be sure to replace the lock with a brand new one that is secure if you find any signs of wear or damage.
Once you've checked the lock and decided on the type of replacement you need, it's time to start working on the actual repair. The spindle and handle should be removed from the doorway to the patio. Introduce the new handle. Begin by installing the interior handle. Align it with the spindle, and then secure it into place using the two screws or bolts. Once the handle's interior is in, install the handle on the outside and screw it into the position as well. After you've completed these steps Test the handles to make sure that they are able to open and close easily and that the latch engages properly with the strikeplate.
Check the Door's Strike
The door latch and strike plate are two parts of the lock that work to ensure the latch secures the door. An incorrectly aligned strike plate and door latches will cause the latch to not latch the door in a proper manner. Fortunately, this problem is usually simple to fix.
Examine the holes that receive the strike plate to make sure 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 until its receiving holes align with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted, tighten the screws and then test the door to see whether it locks smoothly after the new adjustment.
Door strike plates can be a bit difficult to access for homeowners with sliding patio doors, however they're essential for locking and unlocking your door. These plates are usually located on the top and bottom of the door jamb where they serve as the door's latch. The door latch slides into the strike plate, and it creates the seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted or not installed correctly, it can prevent the latch from locking the door securely.
A misalignment between the latch and strike plate is a common reason for the patio lock to not close or stay. This can be checked with the "lipstick" test. Rub some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt. Then cover it with masking tape. When you shut the door, the lipstick will leave an impression on the tape, showing exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low you can adjust the strike plate.
If your patio door locks for sliding aren't working correctly they could be a problem in keeping your home secure from intruders. You must resolve this issue as quickly as possible. By following these easy steps, you can repair the lock on your patio door and get it back to normal within a short time.