Ten Repair Patio Doors That Really Change Your Life
How to Troubleshoot and repair Patio Doors patio door repairs Door Locks
Keep your patio doors in a good condition to safeguard your home against unwanted intruders. The elements can cause misalignment or damage to the patio doors as well as their locks.
If your patio door lock does not operate properly it is possible to make basic repairs at home. These steps will fix issues with the latch, keyway and handle.
Inspect the Lock
patio door lock repairs doors are often targeted by burglars due to their huge glass size and convenient location within a home. Having well-functioning locks is therefore essential to ensure that your home is secure. Luckily, there are some easy ways to troubleshoot and fix patio door locks that have stopped functioning properly.
The first step is to check the lock to ensure nothing is hindering it from latching or locking. If you notice any issues like loose screws or rust, or an issue with alignment, they should be addressed immediately. In some instances the slightest adjustment to the door's location could suffice to resolve the issue.
Dust or debris can also cause the lock mechanism to perform as it should. To avoid this happening, make sure to clean your patio door on a regular basis and clean the lock's hardware. If you need to, apply a mild soap solution. However, make sure to dry the lock completely afterward.
In addition, it's an ideal idea to lubricate the lock regularly. The moving parts of your uPVC patio door repair company lock are similar to those found in a finely tuned machine. They can jam or become stuck as with any mechanical device. Using graphite pencils or a light lubricant can help to get rid of any dirt or debris that may have accumulated in the lock's cylinder, and ensure that it is operating efficiently.
It is crucial to be aware of the exact dimensions of the patio door lock. This can help you choose a replacement lock that aligns perfectly with the current mechanism. If you're not sure how to do it get help, consult a professional locksmith or tradesperson for assistance.
Clean the Lock
Over time, hot and cold weather, dust, and dirt can cause the intricate components of the door lock to become stuck. These problems can threaten your home security. These problems are easy to fix if you know what to do.
Clean your lock before attempting any repairs. Clean any stains and debris with a moist cloth. Make use of hot soapy water and a little grit to clean the mechanism of your lock. After you've cleaned your locks, allow them to dry completely before re-using them.
Most patio doors use mortise locks, which is secure however, it is susceptible to problems in the course of time. If your uPVC lock has become stuck, the first step is to clean and lubricate it. For the uPVC lock you can begin by cleaning the latch plate with a bit of soapy water. Then, remove the screws that hold the body of the latch in the position. After you have the latch plate as well as handle removed, you'll be ready to take the latch out of its slot in the door frame.
Once the latch is detached and the latch is lubricated, you can apply lubrication to the lock with a light engineering oil like WD40. If you don't have WD40, a graphite pen can be used to clean dirt and grit off the mechanism. If your uPVC lock isn't working, you might need to relocate the lock cylinder. This will require additional tools and should be handled by a professional. You can try shifting the cylinder, without taking it from the door by opening and closing the door with the cylinder in the lock position, after which drawing pencil marks on the inside of the frame where the screws are located that keep the cylinder in place.
Lubricate the Lock
When your lock is free from dirt and debris It's the perfect time to lubricate the keyhole as well as the locks themselves. Using the right type of lubricant helps keep your lock in top shape, extending its lifespan.
Dry graphite powder is excellent for lubricating small metal parts such as locks, because it's not sticky or oily and lasts for longer than liquid lubricants. It's easy to apply, and you can also use it on sliding doors, door hinges and garage door tracks. Master locksmith Shawn Fago suggests using a pencil type graphite lubricant designed specifically for lock-cylinders.
Liquid lubricants are more efficient than graphite powder particularly in humid climates. Silicone lubricants are resistant to water and don't attract dust and dirt as much as other liquid fluids. They are efficient at low and high temperatures. However, some silicone lubricants could cause the formation of a buildup over time, and may replace other lubricants you've tried.
Teflon Lubricants are an ideal alternative to silicone lubricants because they last longer and don't attract dust or dirt. They are also great for cold conditions, since they can prevent ice buildup within the lock.
If your lock cylinder feels stiff and difficult to turn, it's likely to be worn out. It will need to replaced. A professional locksmith will remove the lock mechanism, and then install the cylinder of a new model that matches your current keys. They can also repair and modify existing locking mechanisms. If your door isn't equipped with a lock cylinder, a professional can replace it to improve security and safety. They can also install new lock faceplates on your patio door that are in keeping with the rest of the door.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If cleaning the lock with lubricant and lubricating it do not work, the issue could be that the latch isn't aligned with the side jamb or the frame of the door. To determine this open the sliding patio door and sight upwards and downwards from the door's opening to see if the door is parallel to the frame or jamb. If not, loosen the screws that hold the latch in place and adjust it upwards or downwards until the latch is able to catch the latch's hasp with a tight snap when the door is closed.
Sometimes the latch can be difficult to close because of a worn-out cylinder. You'll need a replacement cylinder if the worn one is making it difficult to turn the key. You should choose one with the same keyway and size as the previous one. This will allow you to replace it with ease by unbolting the two halves before inserting the new cylinder.
You can find replacement cylinders at many home improvement stores. You'll have to know the manufacturer and model of your current cylinder to be able to purchase one that is compatible with it. If you don't know the model or manufacturer, take a picture of the cylinder and its mounting screws. Then visit your local hardware store to seek help.
Once you have a new cylinder, loosen the flat screw that holds it in place, and remove the escutcheon plate. Remove the lock cylinder, the escutcheon and door frame with a screwdriver. Place the screw in a safe place so that you don't lose it. Then, loosen the set screw on the cylinder's keep (the metal part that fits into the rectangular cutout in the door) and then loosen it enough to turn the cylinder.
Replace the Lock
A patio doors repair door lock that's not functioning properly can be a serious security risk. Dirt and debris can get caught within the lock mechanism. If this is not addressed immediately, the lock will eventually stop working and won't longer offer security. Replacing the patio door lock is a relatively easy DIY project that requires only a few tools and small amount of time.
Begin by examining the lock to determine what's causing the problem. If cleaning and lubrication do not aid, the latch may be bent too much to function properly. If this is the case, replace the lock latch using mortise locking systems to ensure it's as strong and secure as you can.
Consult a door hardware or locksmith if you're not confident about tackling this DIY project. They'll have the expertise and tools to complete the job properly and ensure that the new lock will work with your patio door.
Maintaining your patio door lock in good condition is an essential part of routine maintenance. Check that the knobs and handle aren't loose and, if they are tight, tighten them when needed. Lubricate your lock at least once a year to avoid it sticking or becoming stiff. It is recommended that locks that are exposed to heavy usage or extreme weather conditions should be lubricated more often. It is essential to select a lubricant which has been specifically made for locks (WD-40's Specialist Dry PTFE Anti Friction or GT85). Apply the lubricant to keyhole of the lock mechanism to get the best results.