Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, the wear and tear can lead to lock malfunctions. Fortunately, there are several simple and efficient steps that can help restore your uPVC patio door's security.
These quick fixes can make your home safer, whether you realign the lock or clean the mechanism.
Clean the Lock
Although patio doors are an excellent way to let in the outside and keep the elements out however, they can also pose security risks when your lock isn't functioning as it should. With time wear and tear, cold and hot weather dirt and debris could take their toll on your patio door's lock and cause it to become difficult to open. With a little effort, you can make sure that your lock for your patio door always functions in a proper manner.
It's essential to clean the lock on your patio door and all its moving parts. This helps to remove any dirt and coatings that may be preventing the lock from functioning in the way it should. Start by wiping the moving parts of the lock for your patio door with an aqueous cloth. Then, use a scouring cloth or a damp, rough cloth to scrub the dirt-infested areas of the frame and door. Then wipe the lock using a dry towel to get rid of any moisture. Allow it to air-dry before you use it.
If your patio door has pin-tumbler locks you can apply powdered Graphite to the key. You can also apply a Teflon lubricant such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant can be easy to apply, and doesn't break down with time. If you're unable find the right lubricant to use with your lock, you can apply a pencil that has a more of a thicker tip. Insert the pencil in the lock, then shake it to distribute the graphite.
Tracks for sliding patio doors require regular maintenance to ensure they're free of dust, dirt and other debris. These tracks can be especially vulnerable to snow and ice, which can cause them jam or bind and make it difficult for your patio doors to open and close.
Clean the track rails and rollers on sliding patio doors by removing damaged or dirty weather stripping. Clean it and replace it. The same applies to patio door rollers which can be cleaned and sprayed with a non-stick lubricant that will allow them to move freely.
Lubricate the Moving Parts
uPVC French Doors, similar to sliding patios, operate with 3 to 4 or sometimes, 5 points locking mechanisms. They include the lock cylinder and handle that is operated with keys. These doors require maintenance, the lubrication of moving parts. This can be done with an oil that is thin (never WD40) and is recommended to be done at least once per year.
If hinges that are sagging don't cause the issue it could be because the door isn't aligned. It may be rubbing against or catching the strike plate's hole in the frame. The solution is to remove the strike plate and use an abrasive chisel to increase the size of the mortise that it rests in. This lets the latch sit perfectly in the hole and prevents scratching or catching on the frame.
When the cylinder is out of the way take a measurement of its width using an object or a piece of wood that fits into the adjustment screw gap above the lock. The outer dimension is the distance from the outside of the door to the middle of the cylinder. the inner dimension runs from the center of the adjustment screw to the end of the cylinder.
Check the Lock's Width
If your patio door latch is difficult to turn even after cleaning and lubricating, there's a possibility that it's not in alignment with the strike plate hole. Examine if the door is in balance and whether the hinge screws are tight However, in many cases it is possible to move the strike plate up or down can correct the issue.
The most common issue is when the strike of the lock is too small for the latch to properly engage. In this instance you'll need to expand 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.
Before you purchase a replacement lock, it is important to identify the type of mortise lock you currently have. You can do this by looking at the faceplate on the lock and determining whether it is round or square. Look at each screw hole on the current lock and note their dimensions. This information will assist you in finding a replacement that is the same width and will fit perfectly into your existing hole.
You'll need to locate the mortise lock, and then examine it for any scratches, bends, or other damage that requires to be fixed. A damaged or bent latch is more likely break than one that's been used much, so be sure to replace the lock with a brand new one that is secure when you spot any indications of wear or damage.
Once you've checked the lock and identified which type of replacement you need now is the time to start working on the actual repair. Remove the handle and spindle from your patio door, and then install the new one. Start by putting in the handle in the interior, aligning it with the spindle, and then securing it in place by using the two bolts or screws which hold it. Once the interior handle is installed, you can install the handle that is outside and screw it in place as well. Once you have completed these steps, test the handles to make sure that they open and shut easily and that the latch works properly with the strikeplate.
Check the Strike on the door.
The strike plate and door latch are two parts which work together to lock the door. If they are not aligned properly and the latch isn't latching the door properly. Fortunately, this issue is usually easy to correct.
First, check the holes in the strike plate's receiving to ensure they are clear of obstructions, such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the screws that secure the strike plate in place and allow it to move horizontally, but not removing it from the frame of your door. Adjust the strike plate to align its holes for receiving with latch hooks of the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted tighten the screws, and test the door to determine whether it locks smoothly after the new adjustment.
These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners with sliding patio doors. However, they are essential for locking and unlocking your door. These metal plates are located on the top and bottom jambs of the door where they serve as the support for the latch. The door latch is placed on the strike plate to create an airtight seal when closed. If the strike plate has been damaged or rusted or not properly installed the latch may not lock the door properly.
Repair My Windows And Doors 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 on the outside of the deadbolt and then cover it with masking tape. The lipstick will leave a mark when you close the door. This will indicate 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. You need to repair the issue as soon as you can. Follow these easy steps to repair your patio door lock and restore its function.