5 Killer Queora Answers On Patio Door Lock Repair
Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, the wear and tear can lead to lock malfunctions. There are a few simple steps you can follow to ensure the security of your uPVC door.
These simple fixes will make your home safer regardless of whether you re-align the lock or clean the mechanism.
Clean the Lock
While patio doors are a great way to let in the outside and keep the elements out however, they can also pose an issue for security if your lock isn't working as it should. Over time, wear, tear, cold and hot weather dirt and debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. With a little care you can ensure that your patio door's lock always works in a proper manner.
It's crucial to clean the lock on your patio door and all the moving parts. This will help get rid of any grime and coatings that may hinder the lock from functioning in the way it should. Begin by wiping the moving parts of the lock for your patio door using a damp cloth. then use a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub the hard-to-reach areas of the door and frame that are covered in dirt. Then clean the lock using a dry towel to get rid of any moisture. Let it air dry before using it.
If you have an outdoor door that has a pin tumbler latch mechanism it is possible to lubricate the lock by applying graphite powdered to the key or by using a lubricant made of Teflon, like WD-40 Multi-Use. This type of lubricant is able to be applied with ease and doesn't dissolve over time. If you're unable to find a suitable lubricant You can try using a pencil that has a thick tip. Put the pencil into the lock and jiggle it around a bit to spread the graphite.
double glazed patio door repairs repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk for sliding patio doors require regular maintenance to ensure that they're free of dust, dirt and other debris. They are particularly susceptible to snow and ice which can cause them to jam or bind, making it harder for your patio doors to open and close.
You can clean the track rails and rollers of sliding patio doors by removing weather stripping that is dirty or damaged. Clean it and replace it. The rollers of patio doors can be cleaned and sprayed with a nonstick lubricant.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French doors, like sliding patios, operate using 3 to 4, or occasionally 5 point locking mechanisms. These include the handle and lock cylinder that is operated by keys. They require maintenance and the lubrication of moving parts. This can be done using an oil that is thin however, never WD40. It is recommended to do it every year, at a minimum.
If the hinges aren't causing the problem, it could be that the door is not aligned. It may be rubbing or catching against the strike plate's hole in the frame. The solution is to take off the strike plate and then use an abrasive chisel, which will enlarge the mortise it sits in. This allows the latch to sit properly in the hole, and also prevents getting caught or rubbing against the frame.
Take a measurement of the diameter of the cylinder using the help of a piece of wood or a book that fits into the gap above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is the distance from the outside of the door to the middle of the cylinder, and the inner measurement runs from the center of the adjustment screw until the end of the cylinder.
Check the Lock's Width
If your patio door latch is difficult to turn even after cleaning and lubricating, there's a possibility that it's not in alignment with the strike plate hole. Check to see if the door is balanced and if the hinge screws are secure, but in many cases, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards 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 opening with an hammer and chisel. Then test the latch to ensure that it doesn't touch the jamb frame of the door or get caught the frame.
You should identify the type mortise lock you currently are using before you purchase the replacement. This can be done by looking at the end faceplate and noting whether it is square or round. Then, look at the screw holes on the existing lock and note the dimensions of each. This information will assist you in finding an alternative lock that is of the same size and will fit perfectly into the hole that you already have.
You'll need to locate the mortise lock and examine it for any scratches, bends or other damage that requires to be repaired. A badly damaged or bent latch is more likely to break than one that hasn't been utilized often, so make sure to replace the lock with a new, secure version when you spot any indications of wear or damage.
Once you've decided on the kind of lock replacement you require It's time to begin the actual repair. The spindle and handle must be removed from the patio door. Insert the new handle. Start by installing the inside handle. Align it with the spindle and then secure it into by using two bolts or screws. Once the interior handle is installed, you can install the handle on the outside and screw it in the position as well. After you've completed these steps check the handles to ensure that they open and shut easily and that the latch works correctly with the strikeplate.
Check the Strike on the door.
The strike plate and door latch are two parts that work together to secure the door. An incorrectly aligned strike plate and door latches will cause the latch to not latch the door properly. This problem is usually very easy to fix.
Check the holes for receiving of the strike plate to make sure they are clear of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then, loosen the keeper screws that secure the strike plate in place, allowing it to move vertically but not detaching it from the door frame. Then, you can adjust the strike plate so that its holes for receiving align with the latch hooks on the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted, tighten all screws and check whether the door shuts smoothly.
These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners who have sliding patio doors. However they are vital for locking and unlocking your door. The plates made of metal are located between the top and bottom jambs of your door, where they serve as the support for the latch. Then, the door latch is able to slide into the strike plate, creating 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.
One of the most common reasons for an outdoor door lock to not close or not close is a misalignment between the latch and the strike plate. The easiest way to check for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt, and then apply masking tape over it. The lipstick will leave the mark when you shut the door. This will show you exactly where the latch joins the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low, you can alter the strike plate.
If your patio door locks for sliding aren't working correctly they could be a problem in keeping your home safe from burglars. You need to resolve this issue as quickly as possible. If you follow these steps, you can fix your patio door's lock and restore its functionality in no time.