Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors go through wear and tear that could result in locks that fail. However, there are simple and efficient ways to restore your uPVC patio door's security.
These easy fixes will make your home safer no matter if you adjust the lock or clean the mechanism.
Clean the Lock
While patio doors are a great way to bring the outside in and keep the elements out but they can also pose security risks when your lock isn't functioning as it should. As time passes wear and tear hot and cold weather, dirt and debris can cause damage to the lock on your patio door and make it difficult to open. Fortunately, with some minor maintenance you can ensure that your patio door's locks will always function effectively.
It is essential to first clean the patio door lock as well as all moving parts. This will help get rid of any grime or coatings that could be preventing your lock from functioning correctly. Start by wiping the moving parts of your patio door lock with a damp cloth. Then you can use a scouring paper or rough damp cloth to scrub the dirt-infested parts of the door and frame. Then wipe the lock using a dry towel to get rid of any remaining moisture. Allow sliding patio door repair repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk to air-dry before you use it.
If your patio door is equipped with pin-tumbler latches, 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 kind of lubricant is easy to apply and it doesn't dissolve over time. If you're unable find the right lubricant to use with your lock, you can make use of a pencil with a more of a thicker tip. Put the pencil into the lock and move it around to distribute the graphite.
Regular maintenance is also required to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors clear from dust, dirt and other debris. These tracks are particularly vulnerable to ice, snow, and other debris, which could cause them to block or become stuck. This could 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, then replace it. Patio door rollers can also be cleaned and sprayed with a nonstick lubricant.
Lubricate the Moving Parts
uPVC french doors, similar to sliding patio doors, work with 3-4 or sometimes 5-point locking mechanisms that include the lock cylinder and handle controlled by the key. These doors require maintenance, oiling of the moving parts. This can be done with an oil that is thin but not WD40. This should be done at least once per year.
If sagging hinges aren't the cause, the door could be misaligned and catching or striking the strike plate hole within the frame. The solution is to remove the strike plate, and then use an abrasive chisel, which will enlarge the mortise that it rests in. This will permit the latch to fit into the hole, and stop it from rubbing against the frame.
Take a measurement of the width of the cylinder with a piece of wood or a book that can be inserted 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 of the cylinder.
Check the width of the lock.
If your patio door latch isn't able to turn even after cleaning and lubricating, there's a possibility that it is out of alignment with the strike plate hole. Verify that the door is balanced, and that the hinge screws are tight. In many cases, however, simply moving the strike plate upwards or downwards can solve the issue.
The latch might not work properly if the strike of the lock is too small. In this situation, you need to widen the hole with the hammer and chisel. Then test the latch to ensure it doesn't rub against the jamb frame of the door or get caught the frame.
Before purchasing a new lock, first determine the mortise type of lock you have. This can be done by looking at the end faceplate and observing whether it is round or square. Look at each screw hole on the existing lock, and note their size. This will help you find a replacement that is the same size and fits perfectly into the hole you have already.
In addition to identifying the current mortise lock, you'll also need to check it for any scratches or bends that may require repairing. A bent or damaged latch is more likely break than one that's not utilized often, so make sure to replace the lock with a brand new, secure version if you find any signs of wear or damage.
Once you've decided on the kind of lock replacement that you require Now it's time to start the actual repair. The old spindle and handle must be removed from the doorway to the patio. Install the new handle. Begin by installing the interior handle and aligning it with the spindle and then securing it in place with the two screws or bolts that hold it. Once the handle's interior is in, install the handle on the outside and screw it in place, too. After you've completed these steps you can test the new handles to make sure they open and close easily and that the latch is catching correctly with the strike plate.
Make sure the door's strike is checked
The strike plate and door latch are two components that work together in order to lock the door. An incorrectly aligned strike plate and door latches will result in the latch not being able to latch the door properly. Fortunately, this problem is usually easy to correct.
Check the holes for receiving of the strike plate to make sure they are clear of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Remove the screws that hold the strike plate. This allows it to move vertically, but not separate it from the 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 all screws, and check whether the door shuts smoothly.
These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners with sliding patio doors. However they are vital to lock and unlock your door. These metal plates are located between the top and bottom jambs of your door, where they support its latch. The door latch is able to slide into the strike plate to form the seal when it is closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted or not installed correctly, it may prevent the latch from locking the door securely.
The most common reason for the patio door lock to become stuck or not close is a misalignment of the latch and the strike plate. The most effective way to test for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Apply some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt, then apply masking tape over it. When you shut the door the lipstick will leave marks on the tape, showing you exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high 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 secure from intruders. You must resolve this issue as quickly as possible. Follow these easy steps to repair your patio door lock and restore it's function.