Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors experience wear and tear that can result in locks that fail. There are a few easy steps you can take to restore the security of your uPVC door.
These simple fixes will make your home safer no matter if you adjust the lock or clean the locking mechanism.
Clean the Lock
Although patio doors are a great option to let in the outside and keep the elements out, they can also be an issue for security when your lock isn't functioning as it should. Over time, wear and tear, extreme cold and hot weather dirt and debris can affect your patio door's lock and cause it to become difficult to open. Fortunately, with some minor maintenance you can ensure that your patio door's locks always function properly.
To begin with, it's crucial to clean your patio door's lock and all of its moving parts. This helps remove any dirt and coatings that could be preventing the lock from functioning in the way it should. Start by wiping down the moving parts of your patio door's lock with a damp, clean cloth. then make use of a scouring pad, or a rough damp cloth to scrub any hard-to-reach parts of the door and frame that are covered in dirt. Then wipe the lock using a dry towel to get rid of any remaining moisture. Let it air dry before using it.
If your patio door is equipped with pin-tumbler latches You can lubricate it by applying powdered graphite to the key. You can also apply a Teflon lubricant like WD-40 Multi Use Product. This type of lubricant is able to be applied quickly and does not dissolve over time. If you are unable to find an appropriate lubricant, you could try using a pencil with an extremely sharp tip. Put the pencil in the lock, then shake it around to distribute the graphite.
Sliding patio door tracks also require regular maintenance to ensure that they're free of dust, dirt and other debris. These tracks are especially vulnerable to snow and ice, which can cause them to become stuck or slack and make it difficult for your patio doors to open and close.
Clean the track rails and rollers on sliding patio doors by removing any weather stripping that is damaged or dirty. Clean it, then replace it. The same can be done for patio door rollers, which can be wiped down and sprayed with non-stick lubricant that will allow them to move freely.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French doors, like sliding patios, are operated by using 3 to 4 or sometimes, 5 points locking mechanisms. This includes the lock cylinder and handle which is operated by keys. These doors also need maintenance, including lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done using a thin oil (never WD40) and is recommended to be done at least once per year.
If the hinges aren't causing the problem, it could be that the door isn't aligned. It could be rubbing or catching the strike plate's opening in the frame. Remove the strike plate, and employ a sharp tool to enlarge the mortise. This allows the latch to sit perfectly in the hole, and also prevents getting caught or rubbing against the frame.
Once the cylinder is cleared of the way, measure its width with the help of a book or piece wood that fits into 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.
Check the Lock's Width
If your patio door latch is difficult to turn, even after oiling and cleaning it's possible that it's not aligned properly with the strike plate. Check to see if the door is balanced and if the hinge screws are tight However, in many cases it is possible to move the strike plate upwards or downwards can correct the issue.
The latch might not work properly in the event that the strike of the lock is too small. In this instance you'll need to expand the hole using the hammer or chisel and then test the latch to ensure that it is able to engage the strike plate in a smooth manner without rubbing against or getting caught on the door's frame jamb.
Before purchasing a new lock, it is important to determine the mortise type of lock you currently have. This can be done by looking at the faceplate and observing whether it is square or round. Then, look at the screw holes on the current lock and note the size of each one. This information will allow you to find a replacement lock that is exactly the same size and will fit in the hole that you already have.
In addition to identifying the current mortise lock, you should also examine it for any nicks or bends that may need repairing. A bent or damaged latch is more likely to break than one that's not used much, so be sure to replace the lock with a new, secure version when you spot any indications of damage or wear.
Once you've checked the lock and decided on the kind of replacement you require now is the time to start working on the actual repair. The spindle and handle must be removed from the doorway to the patio. Introduce the new handle. Start by installing the interior handle. Align it with the spindle and then secure it in position using two screws or bolts. Install the exterior handle following the interior handle. After you've completed the steps, you can test the new handles to ensure that they open and close easily and that the latch is catching properly with the strike plate.
Make sure you check the Strike of the door.
The strike plate and door latch are two components that work together in order to lock the door. If these parts aren't aligned correctly, the latch won't latch the door shut correctly. Fortunately, this problem is often easy to fix.
Check the holes for receiving of the strike plate to make sure they are clear of obstructions like dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the screws that secure the strike plate in place, allowing it to move vertically, but not separating it from the frame of your door. Then, adjust the strike plate until its receiving holes align with the latch hooks on the door latch. Once the strike plate has been adjusted tighten all screws and test if the door closes smoothly.
These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners who have sliding patio doors. However they are vital for locking and unlocking your door. These metal plates are usually placed on the top and bottom of the door jamb, where they serve as the door's latch. The door latch slides onto the strike plate, and it creates the seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or not installed correctly, it may stop the latch from locking the door securely.
patio doors repairs near me of the latch and strike plate is the most common reason for a patio lock to not close or stay. This can be confirmed using the "lipstick" test. Apply a little lipstick across the edge of the deadbolt. Then cover it with masking tape. When you shut the door the lipstick will leave marks on the tape, showing exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high you can easily alter the strike plate.
If your sliding patio door locks aren't functioning properly, they can keep your home safe from burglars. You must resolve this issue as quickly as you can. Follow these easy steps to repair your patio door lock and restore it's functionality.