Over time, patio doors experience wear and tear that can result in locks that fail. However, there are simple and effective steps that can help restore your uPVC patio door’s security.
These easy fixes can make your home safer, whether you realign the lock or clean the locking mechanism.
Clean the Lock
While patio doors are an excellent way to bring the outside in and keep out the elements but they can also pose an issue for security when your lock isn’t functioning as it should. Over time, wear, tear, hot and cold weather dirt and debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. With a little maintenance, you can ensure your patio door’s locks will always perform correctly.
It is essential to first clean the patio door lock as well as all moving parts. This will help get rid of any coatings or dirt that might be hindering the lock from working effectively. Begin by wiping down all the moving parts on the lock for your patio door repair company door with a damp cloth. Then apply a scouring pad or a damp, rough cloth to scrub the dirt-infested parts of the door frame and frame. You should then wipe down the entire lock with dry cloths to eliminate any remaining dampness and allow it to air dry prior to using it again.
If your patio door uses pin-tumbler locks You can lubricate it by applying powdered Graphite to the key. You can also use a Teflon oil like WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant can be applied easily and will not disintegrate over time. If you’re unable to find the right lubricant for your lock, use a pencil with thicker tip. Insert the pencil in the lock, and shake it to distribute the graphite.
Tracks for sliding patio doors require regular maintenance to ensure they’re free of dirt, dust and other debris. These tracks are particularly vulnerable to ice, snow, and other particles, which can cause them jam or bind. This can make it difficult for your patio door to open and close.
Clean the track rails and rollers on sliding patio doors by removing any weather stripping that is damaged or dirty. Clean it, and then replace it. The rollers of patio repair near me doors can be cleaned and sprayed with an oil that is non-stick.
Lubricate the Moving Parts
uPVC French Doors, similar to sliding patios, are operated using 3 to 4, or sometimes, 5 points locking mechanisms. They include the handle and lock cylinder which is operated by keys. These doors require maintenance, lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done using an oil that is thin (never WD40) and should be done once per year.
If hinges that are sagging aren’t the reason, the door could be misaligned and caught or rubbing against the strike plate hole within the frame. The solution is to take off the strike plate and then use an abrasive chisel, which will enlarge the mortise that it rests in. This lets the latch sit properly in the hole and avoids getting caught or rubbing against the frame.
When the cylinder is out of the way, measure its width with 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 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.
Check the lock’s width
If your patio door latch isn’t able to turn even after oiling and cleaning it could be because it is not aligned with the strike plate. Check if your door is in a balanced position, and that the hinge screws are tight. In most cases, moving the strike plate downwards or upwards could fix the problem.
The latch may not be able to engage properly in the event that the strike of the lock is not large enough. In this instance you’ll need to expand the opening using the hammer or chisel and then test the latch to ensure that it is able to engage the strike plate smoothly without rubbing against or getting caught on the frame of the door jamb.
You should identify the type mortise lock you currently have before buying an alternative. You can do this by looking at the faceplate of the lock and determining whether it is square or round. Then, take a look at the screw holes on the existing lock and note the dimensions of each. This will enable you to locate a replacement lock that is exactly the same width and fits into the hole you have already.
You’ll want to identify the mortise lock and inspect it for scratches, bends or other damage that requires to be fixed. A damaged or bent latch is more likely than one that has been used a lot to break. Replace the lock if you notice evidence of damage.
After you’ve examined the lock and determined which kind of replacement you require then it’s time to begin working on the actual repair. Remove the handle and spindle from your patio door, and then install the new one. Begin by installing the handle inside and aligning it with the spindle, and then fixing it with the two screws or bolts which hold it. Once the handle’s interior is installed, you can install the exterior handle and screw it in the position as well. Once you’ve completed these steps you can test the new handles to ensure that they open and close easily and that the latch locks correctly with the strike plate.
Make sure you check the Strike of the door.
The strike plate and door latch are two parts that work together to secure the door. If these are misaligned, the latch won’t latch the door shut correctly. Fortunately, the issue is usually simple to fix.
First, check the holes in the strike plate’s receiving to ensure they are free of obstructions, such as dirt or plastic plugs. Release the screws that hold the strike plate in position. This allows it to move vertically, but it will not be able to separate from the frame. Adjust the strike plate so that it aligns its receiving holes with the latch hooks of the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted then tighten the screws and test the door to see whether it locks smoothly after the new adjustment.
Door strike plates can be a bit difficult to access for homeowners with sliding patio door repair service near me patio doors, however they’re crucial to lock and unlock your door. These metal plates are located at the top and bottom jambs of your door, which are where they help support the latch. The door latch is placed on the strike plate to create a seal when closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or not properly installed, it could hinder the latch from locking the door securely.
A misalignment of the strike plate and latch is one common cause for a patio lock to not close or stick. The easiest method to check for this is by performing the “lipstick test.” Rub some lipstick on the outside of the deadbolt, then attach masking tape over it. The lipstick will leave the mark when you shut the door. This will indicate exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high it is possible to adjust the strike plate.
Locks for sliding patio doors help protect your home from burglars, and if they’re not functioning correctly, you must solve the issue fast. By following these easy steps, you’ll be able to fix your patio door’s lock and restore its functionality within a short time.