Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors experience wear and tear which can cause lock malfunctions. There are a few basic steps you can take to restore the security of your uPVC door.
Whether it's realigning the lock or cleaning the locking mechanism these simple fixes will increase the security of your home.
Clean the Lock
While patio doors are an excellent way to let in the outside and keep the elements out however, they can also pose a security risk in the event that your lock isn't operating as it should. With time, wear and tear, cold and hot weather, dirt and debris can affect your patio door's lock
tilt and slide patio door repairs near me cause it to become difficult to open. With some minor maintenance, you can ensure your patio door's locks will always function properly.
It's important to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This will help get rid of any dirt or coatings that could be preventing the lock from working effectively. Start by wiping all the moving parts on the lock for your patio door with a damp cloth. Then you can use a scouring paper or a rough damp cloth to scrub the dirt-infested parts of the door frame and frame. Then, wipe the entire lock using dry cloths to eliminate any remaining dampness, and allow it to air dry before making use of it again.
If you have an outdoor door that has a pin tumbler latch mechanism, you can apply lubrication to the lock by applying graphite powdered to the key or using an lubricant based on Teflon such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant can be easy to apply, and it won't disintegrate with time. If you're unable to find the right lubricant to use with your lock, apply a pencil that has a thicker tip. Insert the pencil in the lock, and shake it to distribute the graphite.
Sliding patio door tracks also require regular maintenance to ensure they're free of dirt, dust and other debris. They are particularly susceptible to ice, snow, and other debris, which could cause them to jam or bind. This could make it difficult for your patio door to open and close.
Clean the track rails and rollers on sliding
patio door lock Repair doors by removing any damaged or dirty weather stripping. Clean it and replace it. The same is true for patio door rollers, which can be cleaned and sprayed with non-stick lubricant that will allow them to move freely.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French Doors, similar to sliding patios, are operated using 3 to 4, or sometimes 5 points locking mechanisms. This includes the lock cylinder and handle that is operated with keys. They require maintenance and the lubrication of moving parts. This can be done using the use of a thin oil, but never WD40. This should be done at least once per year.
If sagging hinges aren't a cause, the door could be skewed and catch or rubbing against the strike plate hole within the frame. The solution is to remove the strike plate and then use an abrasive chisel, which will enlarge the mortise it sits in. This allows the latch to sit correctly in the hole and avoids rubbing or catching on the frame.
Find the length of the cylinder using a piece of book or wood that fits into the gap above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is the distance from the outside of the door to the middle of the cylinder, while the inner measurement runs from the center of the adjustment screw to the end of the cylinder.
Verify the lock's width
If your patio door latch is hard to turn even after oiling and cleaning it's possible that it's 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 it is possible to move the strike plate upwards or downwards could fix the problem.
The most common issue is when the lock's strike is too small for the latch to properly engage. In this case, enlarge the hole with the hammer and chisel. Then, test the latch to ensure it doesn't rub against the door jamb frame or catch the frame.
You should identify the type mortise lock you have before buying an alternative. This can be done by looking at the end faceplate and noting whether it is round or square. Then, look at the screw holes on the current lock and note the dimensions of each. This will help you to locate the replacement lock that has the exact same width and fits into the hole that you already have.
You'll need to locate the mortise lock and inspect it for any scratches, bends or other damage that need to be repaired. A damaged or bent latch is more likely than one that has been used a lot to break. Replace the lock if it shows evidence of damage.
Once you've decided on the kind of lock replacement that you require, it's now time to begin the actual
repair patio door lock. Remove the handle and spindle out of your patio door, and then put in the new one. Begin by installing the interior handle, aligning it with the spindle, and then securing it by using the two bolts or screws that hold it. Install the exterior handle after the interior handle. Once you have completed these steps, test the handles to make sure that they open and shut easily and that the latch engages correctly with the strikeplate.
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 the latch secures the door. Misaligned strike plate and door latch will result in the latch not being able to latch the door in a proper manner. This issue is usually simple to solve.
First, check the holes in the strike plate's receiving to make sure they are free of obstructions, such as dirt or plastic plugs. Loosen the keeper screws holding the strike plate in position. This allows it to move vertically, but not separate it from the frame. Then adjust the strike plate until its receiving holes 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.
Door strike plates can be a bit difficult to locate for homeowners with sliding patio doors, but they are essential to lock and unlock your door. These metal plates are located at the top and bottom jambs of the door, where they support its latch. Then, the door latch is able to slide into the strike plate, creating the seal when it is closed. If the strike plate is damaged or rusted or not installed correctly, the latch may not be able to lock the door properly.
A misalignment between the strike plate and latch is one common cause for a patio lock to not close or remain in place. The most effective way to test for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Apply some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt and apply masking tape over it. The lipstick will leave a mark when you close the door. This will show you exactly where the latch joins the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low, you can adjust the strike plate.
If your patio door locks for sliding are not working properly, they can keep your home safe from burglars. It is imperative to
repair patio door lock the issue as soon as you can. Follow these steps to repair your patio door lock and restore it's functionality.