Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, wear and tear could cause lock malfunctions. There are a few easy steps you can take to restore the security of your uPVC door.
These quick fixes will ensure your home is secure regardless of whether you re-align the lock or clean the locking mechanism.
Clean the Lock
Patio doors are great for letting the outdoors inside and keeping the elements out. However they can pose a security threat when the lock isn't functioning correctly. Over time, wear and tear, hot and cold weather dirt and 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 functions in a proper manner.
It is important to first clean the patio door lock as well as all moving parts. This will help get rid of any grime or coatings that might be hindering the lock from working effectively. Start by wiping down the moving parts of your patio door's lock with a damp cloth, then make use of a scouring pad, or a rough damp cloth to scrub the hard-to-reach areas of the door or frame that are covered in dirt. It is recommended to wipe 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 a patio door that uses a pin tumbler latch mechanism it is possible to apply lubrication to the lock by applying powdered graphite to the key or by using a lubricant made of Teflon, such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant can be applied easily and does not dissolve over time. If you're not able to locate a suitable lubricant you might try using a pencil with an extremely sharp tip. Place the pencil into the lock, then shake it around to spread the graphite.
The tracks for sliding patio doors also require regular maintenance to ensure that they're free of dust, dirt, 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 any damaged or dirty weather stripping and cleaning them before installing it. The rollers for patio doors can be cleaned and sprayed with an oil that is nonstick.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC french doors, like sliding patio doors, operate by using 3-4 or sometimes five-point locking mechanisms, which include the lock cylinder and handle operated by a key. They require maintenance and oiling of the moving parts. This can be accomplished with an oil that is thin however, never WD40. This should be done at least once per year.
If sagging hinges aren't a reason, the door could be misaligned and caught or rubbing against the strike plate hole in the frame. The solution is to remove the strike plate, and then use a sharp chisel to enlarge the mortise that it rests in. This will allow the latch to fit into the hole, and also prevent it from scratching against the frame.
Measure the width of the cylinder with the help of a piece 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 door to the center cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw to 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 is out of alignment with the strike plate hole. Examine if the door is properly balanced and if the hinge screws are secure, but in many cases shifting the strike plate up or down can fix the issue.
The most common issue is when the lock's strike is too small for the latch to engage. In this situation, you need to widen the hole with a chisel and hammer. Then, test the latch to ensure that it doesn't touch the jamb frame of the door or fall the frame.
Before you purchase a replacement lock, it is important to determine the mortise type of lock you currently have. This can be done by looking at the faceplate on the lock and determining whether it is round or square. Look at each screw hole in the existing lock, and note their size. This will help you to locate an alternative lock that is exactly the same width and fits into your existing hole.
You'll need to identify the mortise lock and inspect it for scratches, bends or other damage that needs to be repaired. A damaged or bent latch is more likely than one that's been used a lot to break. Replace the lock if it displays indications of damage.
After you've examined the lock and determined which kind of replacement you require, it's time to start working on the actual repair. The old spindle and handle should be removed from the patio door. Introduce the new handle. Start by putting in patio door repair near me , aligning it with the spindle, and then fixing it by using the two screws or bolts which hold it. Install the exterior handle after the interior handle. After you've completed these steps then you can test the new handles to ensure that they can be opened and closed easily and that the latch catches correctly with the strike plate.
Make sure you check the Strike of the door.
The door latch and strike plate are the two parts of the lock that work to ensure the latch secures the door. If these parts aren't aligned correctly and the latch isn't latching the door shut correctly. Fortunately, this issue is usually simple to fix.
Examine the holes that receive the strike plate to make sure they are clear of obstructions like dirt or plastic plugs. Release the screws that hold the strike plate. 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. After the strike plate has been adjusted then tighten the screws and then test the door to see whether it locks smoothly after the new adjustment.
Door strike plates can be difficult to access for homeowners with sliding patio doors, however they're essential for locking and unlocking your door. The metal plates are situated on the top and bottom jambs of your door, which are where they help support the latch. The door latch slides into the strike plate to create the seal when it is 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 latch and strike plate is a common reason for the patio lock to not close or stay. The easiest way to check for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick on the edge of the deadbolt, then attach masking tape over it. The lipstick will leave the mark when you shut the door. This will reveal exactly where the latch meets the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high it is possible to adjust the strike plate.
If your patio door locks for sliding aren't functioning properly they could be a problem in keeping your home safe from burglars. You must repair the issue as soon as possible. Follow these simple steps to repair your patio door lock and restore its functionality.