5 Killer Queora Answers On Patio Door Lock Repair
Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors undergo wear and tear that could result in lock malfunctions. Fortunately, there are several simple and effective steps that can help restore your uPVC patio door's security.
These easy 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 out the elements, they can also be an issue for security when your lock isn't functioning as it should. As time passes wear and tear extreme cold and hot weather dirt and debris could affect the lock on your patio door and make it difficult to open. With a little maintenance you can make sure that your patio door's locks always perform properly.
It is important how to repair patio door lock first clean the patio door lock as well as all moving parts. This will help remove any coatings or dirt that might be hindering the lock from working correctly. Begin by wiping down all the moving parts on the lock for your patio door with a wet cloth. Then you can use a scouring paper or a damp, rough cloth to scrub the dirt-infested parts of the door frame and frame. It is recommended to wipe the entire lock using dry cloth to get rid of any remaining dampness and allow it to air dry prior to applying it to the next time.
If your patio door repair service door is equipped with a pin-tumbler latch, you can apply powdered Graphite on the key. You can also use a Teflon oil like WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant is easy to apply and doesn't break down over time. If you're unable to find the right lubricant to use with your lock, apply a pencil that has a more of a thicker tip. Put the pencil in the lock, and shake it around to distribute the graphite.
Regular maintenance is also required to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors free of dust, dirt and other debris. These tracks are especially vulnerable to snow and ice, which can cause them to jam or bind, making it harder for your patio doors to open and close.
Clean the track rails and rollers of sliding patio doors by removing any weather stripping that is damaged or dirty. Clean it, and then replace it. The rollers of patio glass door repair near me doors can be cleaned and sprayed with an oil that is non-stick.
Lubricate the Moving Parts
uPVC French doors, like sliding patios, are operated with 3 to 4 or sometimes, 5 point locking mechanisms. They include the lock cylinder and handle that is operated by the key. These doors also need maintenance, and specifically lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done with a thin oil however, never WD40. This should be done at least once a year.
If sagging hinges don't cause the problem it could be because the door is not aligned. It could be rubbing against or catching the hole of the strike plate in the frame. The solution is to take off the strike plate, and then use an abrasive chisel to increase the size of the mortise it sits in. This allows the latch to sit properly in the hole and avoids rubbing or catching on the frame.
While the cylinder is out of the way take a measurement of its width using an object or a piece of wood that can fit into the gap of adjustment screw above the lock. The outer dimension is the distance from the outside of the door to the middle of the cylinder, and the inner dimension runs from the center of the adjustment screw to the end of the cylinder.
Check the lock's width
If your patio door latch is difficult to turn even after oiling and cleaning, it's possible that it's not aligned properly with the strike plate. Verify that the door is properly balanced and that the hinge screws are secure. In most instances, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards will solve 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, enlarge the opening with a chisel and hammer. 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, you should first determine the mortise type of lock you currently have. This can be done by looking at the faceplate and determining if it is round or square. Then, take a look at the screw holes in the existing lock and note the dimensions of each one. This will help you to find a replacement lock that is exactly the same size and will fit in the hole that you already have.
You'll need to identify the mortise lock and examine it for any scratches, bends, or other damage that needs to be repaired. A 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 brand new one that is secure when you spot any indications of wear or damage.
Once you've checked the lock and identified which type of replacement you'll need then it's time to begin working on the actual repair. Take the old handle and spindle from the patio door, and then install the new one. Start by putting in the handle inside and aligning it with the spindle and then fixing it by using the two bolts or screws that secure it. Once the handle's interior is installed, put in the exterior handle and screw it into the position as well. After you've completed these steps, you can test the new handles to make sure they can be opened and closed easily and that the latch catches properly with the strike plate.
Check the Strike on the door.
The door latch and strike plate are the two components of the lock that work together to ensure that the latch is secure the door. Misaligned strike plate and door latch will cause the latch to not latch the door properly. Fortunately, this issue is usually easy to correct.
Check the receiving holes of the strike plate to ensure they are free of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then, loosen the keeper screws that keep the strike plate in place and allow it to move horizontally, but not detaching it from the door frame. Adjust the strike plate to align its holes for receiving with latch hooks of the door latch. After the strike plate is adjusted then tighten all screws, and check if the door closes smoothly.
Door strike plates can be difficult to access for homeowners who have sliding patio doors repair patio doors, but they're essential for locking and unlocking your door. The metal plates are situated on the top and bottom jambs of the door, which are where they help support the latch. The door latch slides onto this strike plate and creates an airtight seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or not installed correctly, it may prevent the latch from locking the door securely.
One of the most common reasons for an outdoor door lock to become stuck or not close is a misalignment of the latch and the strike plate. The easiest way to check for this is to perform the "lipstick test." Apply some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt and attach masking tape over it. The lipstick will leave an impression when you shut the door. This will reveal exactly where the latch joins the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low you can easily adjust the strike plate.
If your sliding patio door locks aren't working correctly they can help keep your home safe from burglars. You must resolve this issue as quickly as you can. Follow these easy steps to fix your patio door lock and restore its functionality.