Over time, patio door wear and tear can lead to lock malfunctions. There are fortunately, a number of easy and efficient steps that can help restore your uPVC patio door's security.
These simple fixes can make your home safer regardless of whether you re-align the lock or clean the locking mechanism.
Clean the Lock
(Image: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Replacement-Doors-300x200.jpg)Patio doors are ideal to let the outdoors inside and keeping the elements out. However, they can be an issue for security if the lock doesn't work properly. With time, wear and tear, cold and hot weather dirt and debris could take their toll on your patio door's lock and make it difficult to open. With some minor maintenance you can ensure that the locks on your patio door lock repairs near me door always work properly.
It is essential to first clean the patio door lock as well as all moving parts. This will help to remove any coatings or dirt that may be preventing your lock from functioning correctly. Begin by wiping the moving parts of the lock for your patio door with a damp cloth, then make use of a scouring pad, or a rough damp cloth to scrub any difficult-to-access parts of the door and frame that are ingrained with dirt. Then wipe the lock using a dry towel to remove any remaining moisture. Let it air dry before you use it.
If you have an exterior door that is fitted with pin tumbler latch mechanisms it is possible to lubricate the lock by applying powdered graphite to the key or by using an lubricant based on Teflon like WD-40 Multi-Use. This type of lubricant is able to be applied with ease and does not dissolve over time. If you're unable find the correct lubricant for your lock, you can use a pencil with more of a thicker tip. Place the pencil into the lock, and shake it to distribute the graphite.
Tracks for sliding patio doors require regular maintenance to ensure they're free of dirt, dust and other debris. These tracks can be especially susceptible to snow and ice which can cause them to be stuck or jammed and make it difficult for your patio doors to open and close.
Sliding patio door repair service door track rails and rollers can be cleaned by removing any dirty or damaged weather stripping and then cleaning it, before reinstalling it. The same can be done to patio door rollers which can be wiped down and then sprayed with a non-stick lubricant in order to allow them to move freely.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French Doors, similar to sliding patios, operate with 3 to 4 or sometimes, 5 point locking mechanisms. These include the lock cylinder and handle that is operated with a key. These doors also require maintenance, and specifically lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done with a thin oil (never WD40) and should be done once per year.
If hinges that are sagging don't cause the issue it could be because the door is misaligned. It could be rubbing or catching against the strike plate's hole in the frame. The solution is to take off the strike plate, and then use an abrasive chisel, which will enlarge the mortise it sits in. This will permit the latch to fit into the hole and prevent it from hitting the frame.
Once the cylinder is cleared of the way, measure its width with the help of a book or piece wood that can fit into the gap between the adjustment screw and the lock. The outer dimension is measured from the outside of the door to the center cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw to the end of the of the cylinder.
Check the Lock's Width
If your patio door repair service near me door latch isn't able to turn even after oiling and cleaning it could be because it is not aligned with the strike plate. Check if your door is balanced, and if the hinge screws are secure. In many cases, however, simply moving the strike plate upwards or downwards will solve the issue.
The latch might not work properly when the strike of the lock is too small. In this situation you'll need to expand the hole using either a hammer or chisel, and then test the latch to ensure that it is able to engage the strike plate smoothly without rubbing against or getting caught on the door's frame jamb.
Before you purchase a replacement lock, first identify the type of mortise lock you currently have. You can do this by taking a look at the faceplate of the lock and noting if it is square or round. Then, look at the screw holes on the existing lock and note the size of each one. This will assist you in finding an alternative that is the same width and will fit perfectly into the hole that you already have.
In addition to identifying the mortise lock that is currently in use, you'll also need to check it for any scratches or bends that might require repair. A bent or damaged latch is more prone to break than one that's not utilized often, so make sure to replace the lock with a new, secure version if you find any signs 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. The old spindle and handle must be removed from the doorway to the patio sliding doors repair. Insert the new handle. Start by putting in the handle inside by aligning it with the spindle and then securing it in place with the two screws or bolts that hold it. Install the exterior handle after 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 locks correctly when you strike the plate.
Check the Door's Strike
The door latch and strike plate are two components of the lock that work to ensure that the latch is secure the door. If they are not aligned properly and the latch doesn't latch the door properly. This is typically easy to fix.
First, check the strike plate's receiving holes to ensure they are clear of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the keeper screws that secure the strike plate in place, allowing it to move vertically but not detaching it from the door frame. Then adjust the strike plate until its receiving holes align with the latch hooks on the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted then tighten the screws and test the door to see if it shuts smoothly with the new adjustment.
Door strike plates can be difficult to access for homeowners who have sliding patio doors, but they're crucial to lock and unlock your door. The metal plates are typically located at the top and bottom of the door jamb where they support the door's latch. Then, the door latch is placed on the strike plate to create the seal when it is closed. If the strike plate has been damaged, rusted, or is not installed correctly, the latch may not properly lock the door.
One of the most common reasons for the patio door locks repair door lock to not close or not close is a misalignment between the latch and strike plate. This can be checked with the “lipstick” test. Apply a little lipstick across the edge of the deadbolt and then cover it with masking tape. The lipstick will leave the mark when you shut the door. This will show you exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low it is possible to adjust the strike plate.
Locks for sliding patio doors help keep your home safe from burglars, and if they're not working correctly, you must repair the issue quickly. Follow these simple steps to fix your patio door lock and restore its function.