Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, wear and tear can cause lock malfunctions. There are fortunately, a number of simple and effective steps that can help restore your uPVC patio door's security.
These simple fixes will make your home safer, whether you realign the lock or clean the mechanism.
Clean the Lock
Although patio doors are an excellent way to let the outside in and keep the elements out however, they can also pose an issue for security in the event that your lock isn't operating as it should. With time wear and tear, cold and hot weather, dirt and debris can cause damage to your patio door's lock and cause it to become difficult to open. With a little attention you can ensure that your patio door's lock always works properly.
In the beginning, it's essential to clean the lock of your patio door and all the moving parts. This helps flush out any accumulated grime and coatings that may be preventing the lock from working in the way it should. Begin by wiping down all the moving parts of your patio door lock using a damp cloth. Then you can use a scouring paper or a damp, rough cloth to scrub the dirt-infested parts of the frame and door. It is recommended to wipe the entire lock with dry cloth to get rid of any remaining dampness and let it to dry completely before applying it to the next time.
If your patio door uses pin-tumbler locks you can lubricate it by applying powdered Graphite on the key. You can also use a Teflon oil like WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant can be easy to apply, and doesn't break down as time passes. If you are unable to find the right lubricant for your lock, you can apply a pencil that has a more of 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 that they're free of dust, dirt, and debris. These tracks are especially susceptible to snow, ice and other debris that can cause them block or become stuck. This can make it difficult for your patio door to open and close.
Clean the track rails and rollers of sliding patio doors by removing any weather stripping that is dirty or damaged. Clean it and replace it. The rollers of patio doors can be cleaned and sprayed down with an oil that is non-stick.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French Doors, like sliding patios, operate using 3 to 4, or occasionally 5 points locking mechanisms. They include the handle and lock cylinder that is operated by the key. These doors also need maintenance, including lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done using an oil that is thin however, never WD40. This should be done every year, at a minimum.
If hinges that are sagging aren't the cause, the door could be misaligned and catching or hitting the strike plate hole in the frame. Remove the strike plate, and use a sharp tool to expand the mortise. This will permit the latch to fit into the hole and stop it from rubbing against the frame.
Measure the width of the cylinder with a piece of book or wood that can be inserted into the gap above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is the distance from the outside of the door to the center of the cylinder, while the inner dimension extends from the center of the 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 oiling and cleaning, it's possible that it is not aligned with the strike plate. Examine if the door is in balance and if the hinge screws are secure however, in many instances shifting the strike plate up or down can correct the issue.
Most of the time, the issue occurs when the strike of the lock is too small for the latch to engage. In this case you'll need to expand the opening using the hammer or chisel and then test the latch to ensure that it contacts the strike plate in a smooth manner without rubbing against or catching on the door's frame jamb.
Before buying a replacement lock, first determine the mortise type of lock you have. You can do this by looking at the faceplate of the lock and determining if it is square or round. Take a look at each screw hole on the current lock and note their dimensions. This information will assist you in finding an alternative that is the same width and fits perfectly into your existing hole.
You'll need to identify the mortise lock and examine it for bends, scratches or other damage that requires to be fixed. A damaged or bent latch is more prone to break than one that's been utilized often, so make sure to replace the lock with a brand new one that is secure when you spot any indications of damage or wear.
Once you've decided on the kind of lock replacement you require Now it's time to begin the actual repair. The spindle and handle should be removed from the doorway to the patio. Insert the new handle. Start by putting in the handle inside by aligning it with the spindle, and then securing it in place with the two bolts or screws that hold it. Once the handle in the interior is in, install the handle that is outside and screw it into place, too. After you've completed the steps then you can test the new handles to ensure they are able to open and close with ease and that the latch locks correctly with the strike plate.
Make sure the door's strike is checked
The door latch and strike plate are two parts of the lock that work together to ensure the latch secures the door. If these are misaligned and the latch doesn't latch the door shut properly. This problem is usually very easy to repair.
Examine the holes that receive the strike plate to make sure they are clear of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Release the screws that hold the strike plate in position. This will allow it to move horizontally, but it will not be able to separate from the frame. Adjust the strike plate so that it aligns its holes for receiving with latch hooks of the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted tighten the screws, and then test the door to see if it shuts smoothly with the new adjustment.
Door strike plates can be difficult to access for homeowners who have sliding patio doors, but they're crucial for locking and unlocking your door. The metal plates are typically placed on the top and bottom of the door jamb, where they support the door's latch. The door latch is able to slide into the strike plate, creating an airtight seal when closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or is not properly installed the latch may not properly lock the door.
One of the most common reasons for an outdoor door lock to not close or not close is a misalignment between the latch and strike plate. The easiest method to check for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt and put masking tape on it. When door repairs london close the door the lipstick will leave an impression on the tape that will show you exactly where the latch meets the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high, you can easily adjust the strike plate.
The sliding patio door locks protect your home from intruders, and if they're not functioning properly, you need to fix the problem quickly. By following these simple steps, you can repair your patio door's lock and get it back to normal within a short time.