Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio door wear and tear can cause lock malfunctions. However, there are simple and effective methods that can restore your uPVC patio door's security.
It's about realigning the lock or cleaning the locking mechanism, these quick fixes can make your home more secure.
Clean the Lock
Patio doors are fantastic to let the outdoors in while keeping out the elements. However they can pose risky for security when the lock isn't functioning correctly. Over time, wear and tear, cold and hot weather, dirt and debris can take their toll on the lock on your patio door and cause it to become difficult to open. With a little care, you can make sure that your patio door's lock always works correctly.
It's important to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This will help remove any dirt and coatings that may hinder the lock from functioning in the way it should. Begin by wiping all the moving parts of your patio door's lock with a damp, clean cloth. then use a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub any hard-to-reach parts of the door and frame that are coated with dirt. It is recommended to wipe the entire lock using dry cloths to eliminate any remaining dampness and let it to air dry before applying it to the next time.
If you have a patio door that uses pin tumbler latch mechanisms, you can apply lubrication to the lock by applying graphite powdered to the key or applying an lubricant based on Teflon such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This kind of lubricant can be applied with ease and does not dissolve over time. If you're unable to find the correct lubricant for your lock, you can make use of a pencil with a thicker tip. Put the pencil into the lock and move it around a bit to distribute the graphite.
Regular maintenance is also required to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors clear from dirt, dust and other debris. They are particularly susceptible to ice and snow, which can cause them become stuck or slack, making it harder for your patio doors to open and close.
Sliding patio door track rails and rollers can be cleaned by removing damaged or dirty weather stripping and cleaning them before installing it. The rollers of patio doors can be cleaned and sprayed with an oil that is nonstick.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French Doors, like sliding patios, operate using 3 to 4, or sometimes, 5 point locking mechanisms. These include the handle and lock cylinder which is operated by the key. These doors also require maintenance, specifically lubrication on the moving parts. repairmywindowsanddoors can be done using the use of a thin oil however, never WD40. It should be done at least once a year.
If sagging hinges don't cause the issue, it could be that the door is misaligned. It could be rubbing or catching against the strike plate's hole in the frame. Remove the strike plate, and use a sharp tool to increase the size of its mortise. This allows the latch to fit properly in the hole and prevents scratching or catching on the frame.
Take a measurement of the width of the cylinder with the help of a piece of wood or a book that fits into the gap 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 cylinder.
Check the Lock's Width
If your patio door latch is difficult to turn, even after cleaning and oiling it could be because it is not aligned with the strike plate. Examine if the door is properly balanced and whether the hinge screws are secure, but in many cases, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards can fix the issue.
The latch may not engage properly when the strike of the lock is too small. In this instance, you'll need to enlarge the hole using either a hammer or chisel, and then test the latch to ensure 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 determine what kind of mortise lock you currently have. This can be done by looking at the faceplate of the lock and determining whether it is round or square. Take a look at each screw hole on the existing lock and note their dimensions. This information will allow you to locate a replacement lock that is exactly the same size and will fit into the hole you have already.
In addition to identifying the current mortise lock, you'll also need to check it for any nicks or bends that may require repairing. A damaged or bent latch is more likely than one that's frequently used to break. Replace the lock if it displays evidence of damage.
Once you've identified the type of lock replacement you need, it's now time to begin the actual repair. Remove the old handle and spindle from the patio door, and then put in the new one. Start by putting in the handle inside, aligning it with the spindle and then fixing it by using the two screws or bolts that secure it. Install the exterior handle following the interior handle. Once you've completed these steps you can test the new handles to ensure they are able to open and close with ease and that the latch catches correctly when you strike the plate.
Check the Door's Strike
The strike plate and the door latch are two parts that work together to secure the door. If these are misaligned and the latch isn't latching the door properly. This is typically simple to repair.
Check the receiving holes of the strike plate to ensure they are clear of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then, loosen the keeper screws that hold the strike plate in place, allowing it to move horizontally, but not separating it from the frame of your door. Then, you can adjust the strike plate so that its receiving holes align with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted tighten the screws, and then 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. 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 inserted into the strike plate, and it creates the seal. If the strike plate has been damaged or rusted or not installed correctly the latch may not lock the door properly.
A misalignment between the latch and strike plate is a common reason for a patio lock to not close or stay. The easiest way to check for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Apply some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt, then put masking tape on it. The lipstick will leave an impression when you close the door. This will indicate exactly where the latch joins the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high you can adjust the strike plate.
The sliding patio door locks keep your home safe from burglars, and if they're not functioning correctly, you must repair the issue quickly. By following these easy steps, you can repair your patio door's lock and get it back to normal in a matter of minutes.