Over time, patio doors experience wear and tear which can cause locks that fail. However, there are easy and efficient methods that can restore your uPVC patio door’s security.
These quick fixes will make your home safer no matter if you adjust the lock or clean the locking mechanism.
Clean the Lock
While patio doors are an excellent way to bring the outside in and keep the elements out, they can also be a security risk in the event that your lock isn’t operating as it should. Over time, wear and tear, cold and hot weather, dirt, and debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. With some minor maintenance you can ensure that the locks on your patio door always perform effectively.
It is important to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This will help to remove any grime or coatings that could be preventing your lock from working effectively. Begin by wiping down the moving parts of your patio door’s lock with a damp, clean cloth. then make use of a scouring pad, or a rough damp cloth to scrub any hard-to-reach areas of the door and frame that are covered in dirt. You should then wipe down the entire lock with dry cloths to eliminate any remaining dampness, and allow it to dry completely before using it again.
If you have an exterior door that is fitted with a pin tumbler latch mechanism it is possible to apply lubrication to the lock by applying powdered graphite to the key or applying a lubricant made of Teflon, such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This kind of lubricant is easy to apply, and doesn’t break down as time passes. If you’re unable to locate a suitable lubricant You could try using a pencil that has an extremely thick tip. Insert the pencil in the lock, and shake it around to distribute the graphite.
Regular maintenance is also necessary how to repair patio door lock keep the tracks of sliding patio doors clear from dirt, dust and other debris. These tracks can be especially susceptible to ice and snow which could cause them to jam or bind which makes it difficult for your patio doors to open and close.
Tracks for sliding patio doors and rollers can be cleaned by removing damaged or dirty weather stripping and then cleaning it, before installing it. The same is true to patio door rollers which can be wiped down and sprayed with a non-stick lubricant in order to allow them to move freely.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French Doors, like sliding glass patio doors repair patios, are operated with 3 to 4 or sometimes 5 point locking mechanisms. They include the lock cylinder and handle which is operated by a key. These doors also require maintenance, specifically lubrication on the moving parts. This can be accomplished using an oil that is thin (never WD40) and should be done once per year.
If the hinges aren’t causing the issue it could be because the door isn’t aligned. It could be rubbing or catching against the strike plate’s hole in the frame. Remove the strike plate, and employ a sharp tool expand its mortise. This will permit the latch to fit into the hole, and also prevent it from rubbing against the frame.
Take a measurement of the diameter of the cylinder using an object of wood or a book 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 middle of the cylinder, while the inner measurement runs from the center of the adjustment screw until the end of the cylinder.
Verify the lock’s width
If your patio door latch is hard to turn, even after cleaning and oiling, it’s possible that it’s not aligned with the strike plate. Check to see if the door is properly balanced and whether the hinge screws are tight however, in many instances, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards can fix the issue.
The latch may not be able to engage properly when the strike of the lock is too small. In this instance, you can widen the hole with a chisel and hammer. Then test the latch to ensure it does not rub against the jamb frame of the door or get caught the frame.
You must identify the kind of mortise lock you are using before you purchase the replacement. This can be done by looking at the faceplate on the lock and determining whether it is round or square. Take a look at each screw hole in the existing lock and note the size. This information will allow you to locate the replacement lock that has exactly the same size and fits into your existing hole.
In addition to identifying the current mortise lock, you’ll also want to inspect it for any nicks or bends that may require repairing. A damaged or bent latch is more likely break than one that hasn’t been utilized often, so make sure to replace the lock with a brand new, secure version when you spot any indications of wear or damage.
Once you’ve checked the lock and decided on the type of replacement you need, it’s time to start working on the actual repair. The old handle and spindle should be removed from the doorway to the patio. Insert the new handle. Start by installing the inside handle. Align it with the spindle and then secure it into place using the two bolts or screws. Install the exterior handle following the interior handle. After you’ve completed these steps then you can test the new handles to ensure they open and close easily and that the latch catches correctly with the strike plate.
Check the Door’s Strike
The strike plate and door latch are two components which work together to secure the door. If these are misaligned and the latch isn’t latching the door properly. Fortunately, the issue is usually easy to correct.
First, inspect the holes in the strike plate’s receiving to ensure that they are clear of obstructions like dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the screws that keep the strike plate in place, allowing it to move vertically but not removing it from the door frame. Adjust the strike plate to align its receiving holes with the latch hooks of the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted then tighten the screws and test the door to determine if it shuts smoothly with the new adjustment.
Door strike plates can be a bit 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 located at the top and bottom of the door jamb, where they serve as the door’s latch. The door latch is inserted into the strike plate, and it creates a seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or is not installed correctly the latch may not lock the door properly.
The most common reason for an outdoor door lock to become stuck or not close is a misalignment between the latch and strike plate. This can be confirmed using the “lipstick” test. Apply a little lipstick on the outside of the deadbolt. Then cover it with masking tape. The lipstick will leave an impression when you shut the door. This will indicate exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low it is possible to alter the strike plate.
Locks for sliding patio doors repair patio doors help protect your home from burglars. If they’re not functioning correctly, you must repair the issue quickly. By following these easy steps, you can fix the lock on your emergency patio door repair door and restore its functionality within a short time.