Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors undergo wear and tear that could lead to lock malfunctions. However, there are simple and effective methods that can restore your uPVC patio door's security.
Whether it's realigning the lock or cleaning the mechanism that locks these simple fixes will increase the security of your home.
Clean the Lock
Although patio doors are a great option to let the outside in and keep out the elements but they can also pose an issue for security when your lock isn't functioning as it should. Over time wear and tear, hot and cold weather dirt and debris can affect the lock on your patio door and make it difficult to open. With a little care, you can ensure your patio door's locks always function correctly.
It is essential to first clean the patio door lock as well as all moving parts. This will help get rid of any grime or coatings that could be preventing your lock from functioning correctly. Begin by wiping down the moving parts of the lock for your patio door with a damp, clean cloth. then employ a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub any hard-to-reach areas of the door or frame that are ingrained with dirt. Then clean the lock using a dry towel to remove any remaining moisture. Let it air dry before using it.
If you have an exterior door that is fitted with pin tumbler latch mechanisms it is possible to lubricate the lock by applying powdered graphite to the key or applying a lubricant made of Teflon, such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant can be applied easily and doesn't dissolve over time. If you are unable to find an appropriate lubricant you could use a pencil with an extremely sharp tip. Insert the pencil in the lock, then shake it to distribute the graphite.
Sliding patio door tracks also require regular maintenance to ensure they're free of dust, dirt and other debris. These tracks are particularly vulnerable to snow, ice, and other particles, which can cause them get stuck or to bind. This could make it difficult for your patio door to be opened and closed.
Sliding patio door track rails and rollers can be cleaned by removing any dirty or damaged weather stripping, 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, like sliding patios, are operated with 3 to 4 or occasionally 5 points locking mechanisms. These include the lock cylinder and handle that is operated by keys. These doors also require maintenance, including lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done with an oil that is thin, but never WD40. It is recommended to do it every year, at a minimum.
If hinges that are sagging don't cause the problem, it could be that the door isn't aligned. It may be rubbing or catching the strike plate's opening in the frame. Remove the strike plate, and employ a sharp tool enlarge the mortise. This allows the latch to sit properly in the hole and prevents rubbing or catching on the frame.
Once the cylinder is cleared of the way, measure its width with a book or piece of wood that fits into the gap of adjustment screw above 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 until the end of the cylinder.
Verify the lock's width
If your patio door latch isn't able to turn even after cleaning and oiling, it's possible that it's not aligned with the strike plate. Examine if the door is balanced and whether the hinge screws are tight However, in many cases it is possible to move the strike plate upwards or downwards can correct the issue.
sliding patio door repair near me may not be able to engage properly if the strike of the lock is not large enough. In this instance, you'll need to enlarge 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 catching on the frame of the door jamb.
You should identify the type mortise lock you are using before you purchase an alternative. This can be done by taking a look at the faceplate of the lock and determining if it is round or square. Then, look at the screw holes on the current lock and note the size of each. This will aid you in finding an alternative that is the same width and will fit perfectly into your existing hole.
You'll need to identify the mortise lock and examine it for scratches, bends or other damage that requires 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.
After you've determined the type of lock replacement you need It's time to start the actual repair. The old spindle and handle must be removed from the doorway to the patio. Introduce the new handle. Start by installing the inside handle. Align it with the spindle, and then secure it in position using two screws or bolts. Install the exterior handle after the interior handle. After you've completed these steps, test the handles to make sure that they can be shut and open easily and that the latch works properly with the strikeplate.
Check the door's Strike
The strike plate and door latch are two components that work together to secure the door. If these are misaligned and the latch doesn't latch the door properly. Fortunately, the issue is usually simple to fix.
First, examine the strike plate's holes for receiving to ensure that they are free of obstructions like dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the screws that hold the strike plate in place, allowing it to move horizontally, but not separating it from the door frame. Then, adjust the strike plate so that its holes for receiving align with the latch hooks on the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted, tighten the screws and then test the door to see whether it shuts easily with the new adjustment.
These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners with sliding patio doors. However they are vital for locking and unlocking your door. These metal plates are usually located on the top and bottom of the door jamb where they serve as the door's latch. The door latch is inserted into this strike plate and creates the seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted or not properly installed, it could hinder the latch from locking the door securely.
A misalignment of the latch and strike plate is one common cause for the patio lock not to close or stay. This can be verified using the "lipstick" test. Apply some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt. Then cover it with masking tape. The lipstick will leave the mark when you close the door. This will reveal exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high it is possible to alter the strike plate.
If your sliding patio door locks are not working properly, they can keep your home secure from intruders. You need to repair the issue as soon as you can. Follow these simple steps to fix your patio door lock and restore its function.