Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors experience wear and tear which can result in locks that fail. There are fortunately, a number of simple and effective steps that can help restore your uPVC patio door's security.
These quick fixes will make your home safer regardless of whether you re-align the lock or clean the locking mechanism.
Clean the Lock
Although patio doors are an excellent way to let in the outside and keep out the elements however, they can also pose security risks if your lock isn't working as it should. Over time, wear and tear, cold and hot weather dirt and debris can affect the lock on your patio door and cause it to become difficult to open. Fortunately, with a little maintenance you can ensure that your patio door's locks will always perform effectively.
It is essential to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This will help to remove any dirt or coatings that could be preventing the lock from working properly. Begin by wiping down all the moving parts on your patio door lock using an aqueous cloth. Then you can use a scouring paper or rough damp cloth to scrub the areas that are soiled of the door and frame. Then, wipe the lock down with a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture. Allow it to air-dry before you use it.
If your patio door has pin-tumbler latches, you can lubricate it by applying powdered graphite to the key. You can also use a Teflon lubricant such as WD-40 Multi Use Product. This type of lubricant is able to be applied quickly and does not dissolve over time. If you're unable find the right lubricant to use with your lock, apply a pencil that has a thicker tip. Put the pencil into the lock and move it around to distribute the graphite.
The tracks for sliding patio doors also require regular maintenance to ensure they're free of dust, dirt and other debris. These tracks are especially susceptible to ice and snow, which can cause them to be stuck or jammed, making it harder for your patio doors to open and close.
Sliding patio door track rails and rollers can be cleaned by removing any damaged or dirty weather stripping, cleaning them, then installing it. The rollers of patio doors can be cleaned and sprayed down with a nonstick lubricant.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French doors, like sliding patios, are operated with 3 to 4 or occasionally 5 points locking mechanisms. This includes the handle and lock cylinder that is operated with keys. They also require maintenance, specifically lubrication on the moving parts. This can be done with a thin oil (never WD40) and should be done once per year.
If hinges that are sagging aren't the reason, the door could be misaligned and catching or hitting the strike plate hole within the frame. Remove the strike plate and employ a sharp tool enlarge its mortise. This lets the latch sit perfectly in the hole, and also prevents rubbing or catching on the frame.
Measure the width of the cylinder with an object of book or wood that is able to fit into the space above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is measured from the outside of the door to the center of cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw to the end of the of the cylinder.
Verify www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk of the lock.
If your patio door latch isn't able to turn even after cleaning and lubricating, there's a possibility that it's not in alignment with the strike plate hole. Make sure that your door is balanced, and if the hinge screws are secure. In a lot of instances, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards can fix the problem.
The latch might not work properly if the strike of the lock is not large enough. In this instance, you'll need to enlarge the hole with a chisel or hammer and then test the latch to make sure that it is able to engage the strike plate smoothly without rubbing against or catching on the frame of the door jamb.
Before buying a replacement lock, you should first identify the type of mortise lock you currently have. You can do this by looking at the faceplate of the lock and determining whether it is square or round. Examine each screw hole on the existing lock and note their dimensions. This information will allow you to find the replacement lock that has exactly the same size and will fit into your existing hole.
You'll want to identify the mortise lock and inspect it for scratches, bends or other damage that need to be repaired. A badly bent or damaged latch is more likely than one that's frequently used to break. Replace the lock if you notice indications of damage.
After you've examined the lock and determined which type of replacement you'll need now is the time to start working on the actual repair. The old spindle and handle should be removed from the doorway to the patio. Insert the new handle. Start by installing the inside handle. Align it with the spindle and then secure it into by using two screws or bolts. Once the interior handle is installed, you can install the handle that is outside and screw it in the position as well. Once you have completed these steps check the handles to make sure that they are able to open and close easily and that the latch engages correctly with the strikeplate.
Make sure you check the Strike of the door.
The door latch and strike plate are two components of the lock that work together to ensure that the latch locks the door. If these are misaligned and the latch isn't latching the door properly. Fortunately, this problem is often easy to fix.
First, check the strike plate's receiving holes to make sure they are clear of obstructions, such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the screws that keep the strike plate in place and allow it to move horizontally, but not separating it from the frame of your door. Then, you can adjust the strike plate to ensure that its holes for receiving are aligned with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted tighten the screws, and 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. The metal plates are situated at the top and bottom jambs of the door, which are where they help support the latch. The door latch is able to slide into the strike plate, creating the seal when it is closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or is not installed correctly the latch may not lock the door properly.
A misalignment of the strike plate and latch is a common reason for the patio lock to not close or stick. This can be verified using the "lipstick" test. Rub some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt and then cover it with masking tape. The lipstick will leave the mark when you shut the door. This will show you exactly where the latch joins the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low it is possible to adjust the strike plate.
If your patio door locks for sliding aren't working correctly, they can keep your home safe from burglars. You need to fix this problem as soon as you can. Follow these easy steps to repair your patio door lock and restore its function.