Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio door wear and tear can cause lock malfunctions. There are a few simple steps you can take to restore the security of your uPVC door.
It's about realigning the lock or cleaning the mechanism for locking these simple fixes will increase the security of your home.
Clean the Lock
While patio doors are a great way to let in the outside and keep out the elements however, they can also pose an issue for security if your lock isn't working as it should. With time, wear and tear, cold and hot weather, dirt, and debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. With a little effort you can ensure that your lock for your patio door is always working properly.
It's important to clean the lock of your patio door and all the moving parts. This helps to remove any dirt and coatings that may be preventing the lock from working as it should. Start by wiping down the moving parts of your patio door's lock using a damp cloth. then use a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub any hard-to-reach areas of the door or frame that are covered in dirt. Then wipe the lock with a dry towel to get rid of any moisture. Allow it to air-dry before using it.
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 applying an lubricant based on Teflon like WD-40 Multi-Use. This type of lubricant can be applied easily and does not dissolve over time. If you're unable to find the right lubricant to use with your lock, make use of a pencil with a thicker tip. Put the pencil in the lock, and shake it to distribute the graphite.
Regular maintenance is also required to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors free from dust, dirt and debris. These tracks are especially susceptible to ice and snow which can cause them to jam or bind which makes it difficult for your patio doors to open and close.
Clean the track rails and rollers on sliding patio doors by removing weather stripping that is damaged or dirty. Clean it, then replace it. The same applies to patio door rollers which can be wiped down and then sprayed with a non-stick lubricant in order to allow them to move freely.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC french doors, like sliding patio sliding doors repair doors, operate by using 3-4 or occasionally 5-point locking mechanisms which include the lock cylinder and handle operated by keys. They require maintenance and lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done using an oil that is thin (never WD40) and is recommended to be done at least once per year.
If sagging hinges aren't the cause, the door could be misaligned and caught or hitting the strike plate's hole in the frame. The solution is to take off the strike plate and use an abrasive chisel to increase the size of the mortise that it rests in. This lets the latch sit properly in the hole, and also prevents scratching or catching on the frame.
Measure the diameter of the cylinder using a piece of wood or a book that can be inserted into the gap above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is measured from the outside of the door to the center cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw until the end of the cylinder.
Check the lock's width
If your patio door latch isn't able to turn, even after cleaning and lubricating, it's possible that it's not in alignment with the strike plate hole. Check if your door is in a balanced position, and if the hinge screws are tight. In many instances, moving the strike plate downwards or upwards could fix the problem.
The most common issue is when the lock's strike is too small for the latch to engage. In this instance, you can widen the opening using the hammer and chisel. Then test the latch so that it doesn't touch the jamb frame of the door or get caught the frame.
You should identify the type mortise lock you have before buying the replacement. This can be done by looking at the faceplate of the lock and determining whether it is round or square. Then, look at the screw holes on the current lock and note the size of each one. This will enable you to find a replacement lock that is the exact same width and fits into the hole you have already.
In addition to identifying the mortise lock that is currently in use, you'll also want to inspect it for any bends or scratches that might require repair. A damaged or bent latch is more likely than one that's been used a lot to break. Replace the lock if it displays signs of damage.
Once you've inspected the lock and decided on the type of replacement you need then it's time to begin working on the actual repair. Remove the handle and spindle from the patio door, and then install the new one. Begin by installing the interior handle. Align it with the spindle, and then secure it in place using the two screws or bolts. Once the handle in the interior is in, install the handle on the outside and screw it into the position as well. After you've completed these steps, you can test the new handles to make sure they open and close easily and that the latch is catching properly with the strike plate.
Make sure the door's strike is checked
The strike plate and the door latch are two parts that work together to secure the door. If they are not aligned properly and the latch doesn't latch the door properly. Fortunately, the issue is often easy to fix.
Examine the holes that receive the strike plate to ensure they are free of obstructions, such as dirt or plastic plugs. Release the screws that hold the strike plate. This allows it to move vertically, but not separate it from the frame. Then, you can adjust the strike plate until 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.
Door strike plates can be difficult to locate for homeowners with sliding patio doors, but they are essential for locking and unlocking your door. The metal plates are typically located on the top and bottom of the door jamb, where they serve as the door's latch. The door latch is able to slide into the strike plate, creating a seal when closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or not installed correctly, it may prevent the latch from locking the door securely.
A misalignment of the strike plate and latch is one common cause for the patio lock not to close or stick. The easiest way to check for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Apply some lipstick on the outside of the deadbolt, and then apply masking tape over it. The lipstick will leave an impression when you shut the door. This will indicate exactly where the latch meets the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low, you can alter the strike plate.
If your sliding patio door locks aren't working correctly they can help keep your home secure from intruders. It is imperative to repair the issue as soon as you can. By following these easy steps, you can fix the lock on your patio door and regain its functionality in a matter of minutes.
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