Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, wear and tear could cause lock malfunctions. There are a few simple steps you can take to restore the security of your uPVC door.
These quick fixes will make your home safer regardless of whether you re-align the lock or clean the mechanism.
Clean the Lock
Although patio doors are a great option to let the outside in and keep the elements out but they can also pose an issue for security if your lock isn't working as it should. Over time, wear, tear, cold and hot weather dirt, and other debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. With a little effort you can ensure that the lock on your patio door always works in a proper manner.
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 may be preventing your lock from working effectively. Start by wiping all the moving parts on your patio door lock using a wet cloth. Then, use a scouring cloth or a damp, rough cloth to scrub the dirt-infested areas of the frame and door. You should then wipe down the entire lock with dry cloth to get rid of 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 a pin tumbler latch mechanism it is possible to grease the lock by applying graphite powdered to the key or by using a Teflon-based lubricant such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This kind of lubricant is easy to apply and doesn't break down as time passes. If you are unable to find the right lubricant to use with your lock, you can make use of a pencil with a thicker tip. Insert the pencil into the lock and move it around to spread the graphite.
Regular maintenance is also essential to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors free from dirt, dust and debris. These tracks are especially susceptible to snow, ice, and other debris, which could cause them to block or become stuck. This could make it difficult for your patio door to be opened and closed.
Tracks for sliding patio doors and rollers can be cleaned by removing damaged or dirty weather stripping, cleaning them, then reinstalling it. Patio door rollers can also be cleaned and sprayed down with a nonstick lubricant.
Lubricate double glazed patio door repairs moving parts
uPVC French doors, like sliding patios, operate with 3 to 4 or sometimes, 5 points locking mechanisms. They include the lock cylinder and handle which is operated by keys. These doors require maintenance, the lubrication of moving parts. This can be accomplished with the use of a thin oil however, never WD40. It should be done at least once per year.
If sagging hinges don't cause the problem it could be because the door isn't aligned. It may be rubbing or catching 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 will permit the latch to fit into the hole and stop it from hitting the frame.
While the cylinder is out 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 measured from the outside of door to the center cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw until the end of the cylinder.
Verify the width of the lock.
If your patio door latch is hard to turn even after cleaning and oiling it could be because it's not aligned properly with the strike plate. Verify that the door is balanced, and if the hinge screws are tight. In many cases, moving the strike plate downwards or upwards could solve the issue.
The most common issue is when the lock's strike is too small for the latch to properly engage. In this instance you'll need to expand the opening using a chisel or hammer and then test the latch to make sure that it connects to the strike plate smoothly without rubbing against or catching on the frame of the door jamb.
You should identify the type mortise lock you currently have before buying the replacement. This can be done by looking at the faceplate of the lock and determining whether it is square or round. Examine each screw hole on the current lock and note the size. This information will assist you in finding an alternative that is the same size and is a perfect fit for your existing hole.
You'll need to locate the mortise lock and inspect it for any bends, scratches or other damage that need to be fixed. A bent or damaged latch is more likely break than one that's been used much, so be sure to replace the lock with a brand new secure and safe version if you find any signs of damage or wear.
Once you've inspected the lock and decided on the type of replacement you'll need, it's time to start working on the actual repair. Remove the old handle and spindle from your patio door, and then insert the new one. Start by installing the interior handle. Align it with the spindle, and then secure it in place using the two bolts or screws. Install the exterior handle after the interior handle. After you've completed the steps you can test the new handles to ensure they open and close easily and that the latch locks correctly with the strike plate.
Check the Door's Strike
The strike plate and the door latch are two parts that work together in order to secure the door. If these are misaligned, the latch won't latch the door shut properly. This issue is usually easy to repair.
First, check the holes in the strike plate's receiving to ensure they are clear of obstructions, such as dirt or plastic plugs. Remove the screws that hold the strike plate in place. This allows it to move vertically, but not separate it from the frame. Then adjust the strike plate so that 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 determine if it shuts smoothly 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. The plates made of metal are located between the top and bottom jambs of the door, where they serve as the support for the latch. Then, the door latch is placed on the strike plate, creating an airtight seal when closed. If the strike plate has been damaged, rusted, or is not properly installed the latch might not properly lock the door.
A misalignment of the strike plate and latch is a common reason for a patio lock to not close or stick. The easiest way to check for this is to perform the "lipstick test." Apply some lipstick on the outside of the deadbolt, and then put masking tape on it. When you close the door, the lipstick will leave a mark on the tape, showing exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low, you can easily adjust the strike plate.
If your sliding patio door locks are not working properly, they can keep your home secure from intruders. You need to resolve this issue as quickly as you can. Follow these steps to repair your patio door lock and restore it's functionality.