Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, wear and tear can cause lock malfunctions. There are a few basic steps you can follow to ensure the security of your uPVC door.
These quick fixes will make your home safer regardless of whether you re-align the lock or clean the mechanism.
Clean the Lock
Patio doors are ideal for bringing the outdoors inside and keeping out the elements. However, they can be a security threat if the lock doesn't work correctly. Over time, wear and tear, cold and hot weather dirt, and other debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. Fortunately, with some minor maintenance you can ensure that your patio door's locks always work properly.
It is important to first clean the patio door lock as well as all moving parts. This will help flush out any accumulated grime and coatings that could hinder the lock from functioning as it should. Start by wiping down all the moving parts of your patio door's lock with a damp, clean cloth. then employ a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub the hard-to-reach parts of the door and frame that are covered in dirt. Then clean the lock using a dry towel to get rid of any moisture. Allow it to air-dry before using it.
If you have a patio door that uses pin tumbler latch mechanisms You can lubricate the lock by applying graphite powdered to the key or using a lubricant made of Teflon, such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant can be easy to apply and it won't disintegrate over time. If you are unable to find the right lubricant to use with your lock, you can make use of a pencil with a thicker tip. Place the pencil in the lock and jiggle it around to spread the graphite.
Tracks for sliding patio doors require regular maintenance to keep them free of dust, dirt and other debris. They are particularly susceptible to snow and ice which can cause them be stuck or jammed, making it harder for your patio doors to open and close.
You can clean the track rails and rollers on sliding patio doors by removing weather stripping that is damaged or dirty. Clean it, and then replace it. Patio door rollers can also be cleaned and sprayed down with an oil that is nonstick.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC french doors, similar to sliding patio doors, work by using 3 to 4 or sometimes 5-point locking mechanisms that include the lock cylinder and handle operated by the key. These doors also require maintenance, specifically lubrication on the moving parts. This can be accomplished using a thin oil (never WD40) and should be done every year.
If the hinges aren't causing the problem, it could be that the door isn't 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, which will enlarge the mortise it rests in. This allows the latch to sit properly in the hole, and also prevents scratching or catching on the frame.
Measure the length 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 measured from the outside of the door to the center of cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw until the end of the cylinder.
Check the Lock's Width
If your patio door latch isn't able to turn even after cleaning and lubricating, there's a possibility that it's out of alignment with the strike plate hole. Verify that the door is properly balanced and whether the hinge screws are secure, but in many cases shifting the strike plate upwards or downwards could fix the problem.
The most common issue is when the lock's strike is too small for the latch to properly engage. In this case, enlarge the opening with a chisel and hammer. Then, test the latch to ensure that it doesn't rub against the jamb frame of the door or get caught on it.
It is important to identify the type of mortise lock that you have before purchasing the replacement. This can be done by looking at the end faceplate and determining if it is square or round. Then, look at the screw holes on the current lock and note the size of each one. This will help you to locate a replacement lock that is exactly the same width and will fit into your existing hole.
You'll want to identify the mortise lock and examine it for any bends, scratches or other damage that needs to be fixed. A damaged or bent latch is more likely than one that has frequently used to break. Replace the lock if it shows indications of 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. Take the old handle and spindle out of your patio door, and then install the new one. Start by installing the inside handle. Align it with the spindle, and then secure it in place using the two screws or bolts. Install the exterior handle following the interior handle. 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.
Check the Strike of the Door.
The strike plate and the door latch are two components which work together to secure the door. If these are misaligned, the latch won't latch the door properly. Fortunately, this issue is often easy to fix.
First, check the holes in the strike plate's receiving to ensure they are clear of obstructions, such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then, loosen the keeper screws that keep the strike plate in place, allowing it to move horizontally, but not detaching it from the frame of your door. Adjust the strike plate so that it aligns its holes for receiving with the latch hooks of the door latch. Once the strike plate has been adjusted, tighten all screws and test to see whether the door shuts smoothly.
These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners with sliding patio doors. However they are vital for locking and unlocking your door. The metal plates are typically located on the top and bottom of the door jamb, which is where they are used to support the door's latch. Then, the door latch slides into the strike plate, creating a seal when closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or not installed correctly, it can prevent the latch from locking the door securely.
One common reason for an outdoor door lock to stick or not close is a misalignment between the latch and strike plate. The easiest way to check for this is to perform the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick on the outside of the deadbolt, then put masking tape on it. The lipstick will leave an impression 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 it is possible to adjust the strike plate.
just click the next web page sliding patio door locks keep your home safe from burglars, and if they're not working correctly, you must fix the problem quickly. By following these simple steps, you can repair your patio door's lock and get it back to normal in no time.