Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors undergo wear and tear which can lead to lock malfunctions. There are a few basic steps you can take to restore the security of your uPVC door.
If just click the up coming web site resetting the lock or cleaning the mechanism for locking these simple fixes will make your home more secure.
Clean the Lock
Although patio doors are an excellent way to let in the outside and keep the elements out but they can also pose security risks if your lock isn't working as it should. Over time wear and tear, extreme cold and hot weather, dirt and debris can affect your patio door's lock and cause it to become difficult to open. Fortunately, with a little maintenance you can make sure that your patio door's locks will always work correctly.
It is important to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This will help remove any coatings or dirt that might be hindering your lock from functioning 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 using dry cloth to get rid of any remaining dampness and allow it to air dry before using it again.
If you have an exterior door that is fitted with pin tumbler latch mechanisms You can lubricate the lock by applying powdered graphite to the key or applying an lubricant based on Teflon such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This kind of lubricant is easy to apply, and it won't disintegrate with time. If you're unable to find the right lubricant for your lock, make use of a pencil with a more of a thicker tip. Place the pencil into the lock, then shake it around to spread the graphite.
Regular maintenance is also required to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors clear from dust, dirt and other debris. They are particularly susceptible to snow and ice, which can cause them be stuck or jammed which makes it difficult for your patio doors to open and close.
Sliding patio door track rails and rollers can be cleaned by removing dirty or damaged weather stripping, cleaning them, then reinstalling it. Patio door rollers can also be cleaned and sprayed down with an oil that is nonstick.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French Doors, like sliding patios, are operated using 3 to 4, or sometimes 5 point locking mechanisms. This includes the lock cylinder and handle that is operated with keys. These doors also require maintenance, specifically lubrication on the moving parts. This can be done with an oil that is thin (never WD40) and is recommended to be done at least once per year.
If sagging hinges don't cause the problem it could be because the door is not aligned. It could be rubbing or catching the strike plate's opening in the frame. The solution is to take off the strike plate, and then use a sharp chisel to enlarge the mortise it sits in. This lets the latch sit properly in the hole, and also prevents getting caught or rubbing against the frame.
While the cylinder is out of the way and out of the way, measure its width using an object or a piece of 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 cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw to the end of the cylinder.
Check the lock's length
If your patio door latch is difficult to turn, even after cleaning and oiling it's possible that it's not aligned with the strike plate. Verify that the door is properly balanced and that the hinge screws are in good condition. In many cases, however, simply moving the strike plate upwards or downwards will solve the issue.
The most common issue is when the lock's strike is too small for the latch to properly engage. In this instance, you can widen the opening using an hammer and chisel. Then test the latch so that it doesn't rub against the jamb frame of the door or fall the frame.
Before you purchase a replacement lock, you should first determine the mortise type of lock you have. This can be done by looking at the end faceplate and determining if it is square or round. Then, take a look at the screw holes on the current lock and note the dimensions of each. This information will assist you in finding a replacement that is the same width and fits perfectly into the hole you have already.
You'll want to identify the mortise lock and inspect it for scratches, bends, or other damage that need to be fixed. A bent or damaged latch is more likely break than one that's been used much, so be sure to replace the lock with a brand new secure and safe version when you spot any indications of damage or wear.
Once you've checked the lock and identified which kind of replacement you require then it's time to begin working on the actual repair. Remove the handle and spindle out of your patio door, and then install the new one. Start by installing the interior handle. Align it with the spindle, and then secure it in place using the two bolts or screws. Install the exterior handle after the interior handle. Once you have completed these steps check the handles to make sure that they are able to open and close easily and that the latch is in contact properly with the strikeplate.
Make sure you check the Strike of the door.
The door latch and strike plate are two components of the lock that work together to ensure that the latch locks the door. If these are misaligned and the latch doesn't latch the door shut properly. This is typically simple to fix.
Examine the holes that receive the strike plate to make sure they are free of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Remove the screws that hold the strike plate in position. This allows it to move vertically, but not separate it from the frame. Adjust the strike plate so that it aligns its holes for receiving with the latch hooks of the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted tighten the screws, and test the door to see if it shuts smoothly with the new adjustment.
These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners who have sliding patio doors. However, they are essential for locking and unlocking your door. The plates made of metal are located at the top and bottom jambs of the door which are where they help support the latch. The door latch is inserted into this strike plate and creates the seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or not installed correctly, it can prevent the latch from locking the door securely.
The most common reason for a patio door lock to become stuck or not close is a misalignment between the latch and the strike plate. The most effective way to test for this is to perform the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick on the edge of the deadbolt, and then attach masking tape over it. When you shut the door, the lipstick will leave an impression on the tape, indicating you exactly where the latch meets the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low, you can adjust the strike plate.
If your patio door locks for sliding aren't working correctly, they can keep your home safe from burglars. You need to resolve this issue as quickly as possible. Follow these easy steps to fix your patio door lock and restore it's function.