(Image: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Glass-Replacement-150x150.jpg)How to Troubleshoot and Repair Patio Doors Patio Door Locks
Keep your patio doors in a good condition to safeguard your home from unwanted intruders. The elements can cause damage or misalignment to the patio doors as well as their locks.
You can fix your patio door lock yourself if it is not working properly. These steps will fix issues with the latch, keyway, and handle.
Check the Lock
Patio doors are frequently targeted by burglars due to the large amount of glass and their convenient place within a house. It is crucial that your locks are working correctly to keep your home secure. There are a few easy solutions to fix patio door locks which have stopped working.
The first step is to inspect the lock to make sure nothing is hindering it from locking or latching. If you spot any issues such as loose screws or rust, or the wrong alignment, these must be addressed promptly. In some instances, a small adjustment to the location of the patio door might suffice to solve the problem.
Debris or dust can cause the lock mechanism to work properly. Clean your patio door and wipe down all lock hardware regularly to prevent this. You can make use of a mild detergent if necessary, but always be sure to dry the lock completely afterward.
In addition, it's an ideal idea to lubricate the lock on a regular basis. A lot of the moving parts of your uPVC patio door lock are like those of a finely tuned machine, which means that they can get stuck and jammed just like any other mechanical device. A graphite pencil, or a small amount of lubricant can be used to remove any debris or dirt from the lock cylinder. This will ensure that it is functioning smoothly.
The exact dimensions of the patio door lock is also important. This will allow you to find the perfect lock to match your current mechanism. If you're not sure how to repair patio door lock to go about this, it is advisable to talk to an expert tradesperson or locksmith for help.
Clean the Lock
The intricate parts of the door lock can jam up over time because of dirt, dust and cold and hot weather. These issues can compromise your home security. However, it's not difficult to fix these issues If you know how.
Before you attempt any who repairs sliding patio doors, you must first clean your lock. Utilizing a damp, clean cloth, wipe away any stains or debris that could hinder your lock from functioning properly. Then, use a little hot soapy water to wash the mechanism of the lock and get rid of any grime or grit that has built up over time. After you've cleaned your locks, allow them to dry completely before using them again.
Most patio doors are fitted with a mortise lock that is safe but is susceptible to problems with time. If your uPVC lock has become stuck, the first step is to clean and lubricate it. For a uPVC lock, you can start by cleaning the latch plate using a small amount of soapy water. Next, you'll want to remove the screws that keep the latch in the position. After you have the latch plate as well as handle removed, you'll be ready to remove the latch itself from its slot in the door frame.
After the latch has been removed, you can lubricate the lock with an oil that is light in nature, such as WD40. If you don't own WD40 or a graphite pencil, a graphite pens can be used to eliminate dirt and grit from the mechanism. If your uPVC lock still doesn't work it may be necessary to reposition the lock cylinder. This requires additional tools and should be done by an expert. You can practice repositioning a cylinder without needing to remove it from the door. Open and close the door while the cylinder is in the lock position. Then make pencil marks on the frame inside where the screws holding the locking cylinder are located.
Lubricate the Lock
After your lock is clean and free of dirt and debris it's time to grease the lock and the keyhole themselves. Using the correct type of lubricant will keep your lock in top condition, and extends its life.
Dry graphite is a fantastic method to lubricate small metal parts, such as locks. It's non-sticky and oily. It also lasts longer than liquids. It's easy to apply, and you can also apply it to sliding doors, door hinges, and garage door tracks. Master locksmith Shawn Fago suggests using a pencil-like graphite lubricant made specifically for lock-cylinders.
Liquid lubricants may be more efficient than graphite powder particularly in humid climates. Silicone lubricants resist water and don't attract dust and dirt as much as other liquid fluids. They are suitable for both low and high temperatures. Certain silicone lubricants build up over time and eventually replace other lubricants you've tried.
Teflon Lubricants are a good alternative to silicone lubricants since they are long-lasting and don't attract dust or dirt. They are also great for cold environments, as they can help prevent ice accumulation inside the lock.
If your lock cylinder feels stiff and difficult to turn, it is probably worn out. It's time to get it replaced. A professional locksmith can take apart the lock mechanism and install an entirely new cylinder that is compatible with your existing keys. They can also make repairs and adjustments to existing lock mechanisms. A professional can replace the lock cylinder in case your door isn't equipped with one. This can increase security and safety. They can also put the faceplate of your new lock on your patio door to be in line with the rest of the hardware.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If cleaning it and lubricating it does not work, the issue could be due to the latch on the door is not properly aligned with the frame or jamb. To determine this open the sliding patio door and look upwards and downwards from the latch opening to determine whether the door is in line with the jamb or frame. If not, remove the screws fixing the latch body and adjust it either upwards or downwards until the latch is firmly grasping the latch's hasp as the door is closed.
The latch may also be difficult to close because the cylinder has worn out. A worn-out cylinder can make it difficult to turn the key, which is why you'll require an alternate. It is essential to select the new cylinder that's similar in size to the old one and has the same keyway, so you can easily replace it by screwing the two parts of the lock apart and then inserting the new one.
You can purchase replacement cylinders at many home improvement stores. You'll be required to know the name and model of your current cylinder to be able to purchase one that is compatible with it. If you aren't sure of the model or manufacturer, take a photograph of the cylinder and its mounting screws. Then go to the local hardware store for assistance.
Once you have a new cylinder, loosen the screw with a flat head that holds it in place, and remove the plate that holds it in place. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the lock cylinder and escutcheon plate from the door and door frame. Place the screw in a safe place to ensure that you don't lose or damage it. Then, loosen the set screw on the cylinder keep (the metal piece that fits into the rectangular hole of the door).
Replace the Lock
A patio door lock that isn't functioning properly could cause serious danger to your security. Dirt and debris could become stuck in the lock mechanisms. If this is not treated promptly, the lock may eventually stop working and won't will be able to provide security. It's a simple DIY task to change the patio door repair service near me door lock. You'll only need the tools you need and some time.
Begin by examining the lock to determine what is causing the problem. If cleaning and lubrication don't help, the lock latch may be too bent to perform as it should. In this case, it would be best to replace the latch with a brand new mortise lock to ensure that it's as sturdy and secure as possible.
Consult a door hardware or locksmith if you're not confident in tackling this DIY task. They will have all the equipment and know-how to properly install the lock.
Maintaining your patio sliding door repair near me door lock in good condition is a matter of routine maintenance. Make sure that the knobs and handle aren't loose and, if they are tighten them as required. Lubricate your lock at least once a year to prevent it from sticking or becoming stiff. It is recommended that locks exposed to heavy usage or extreme weather should be lubricated regularly. The type of lubricant you use is important, so be sure to select one that's specifically designed to be used on locks (GT85 or WD-40's Specialist Friction Dry PTFE). For best results apply the lubricant direct onto the key hole of the lock mechanism.