Patio Door Lock Repairs

Over time, patio door repair company doors go through wear and tear that could lead to lock malfunctions. There are a few easy steps you can follow to restore the security of your uPVC door.

These simple fixes can make your home safer, whether you realign the lock or clean the mechanism.

Clean the Lock

While patio doors are an excellent way to bring the outside in and keep out the elements but they can also pose an issue for security if your lock isn't working as it should. Over time, wear, tear, cold and hot weather dirt and debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. Fortunately, with a little care, you can ensure your patio door's locks always work effectively.

It is essential to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This will help to remove any grime or coatings that may be preventing the lock from working effectively. Start by wiping down all the moving parts of your patio door's lock with a damp, clean cloth. then use a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub any hard-to-reach areas of the door and frame that are ingrained with dirt. Then wipe the lock using a dry towel to remove any remaining moisture. Allow it to air-dry before you use it.

If your patio door uses pin-tumbler latches, you can lubricate it by applying powdered graphite to the key. You can also use a Teflon lubricant such as WD-40 Multi Use Product. This type of lubricant is able to be applied easily and does not dissolve over time. If you are unable to locate the right lubricant for your needs, you might try using a pencil with an extremely sharp tip. Insert the pencil in the lock, then shake it around to distribute the graphite.

Regular maintenance is also required to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors free from dust, dirt and other debris. These tracks are especially susceptible to ice and snow which can cause them to jam or bind, 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 any damaged or dirty weather stripping. Clean it, then replace it. The same can be done for patio door rollers, which can be wiped down and sprayed with non-stick lubricant that will allow them to move freely.

Lubricate the moving parts

uPVC french doors, like sliding patio doors, operate with 3-4 or sometimes 5-point locking mechanisms which include the lock cylinder and handle controlled by keys. These doors also require maintenance, specifically lubrication on the moving parts. This can be done using the use of a thin oil, but never WD40. This should be done at least once a year.

If sagging hinges don't cause the issue it could be because the door is misaligned. It may 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 rests in. This will permit the latch to fit into the hole, and stop it from hitting the frame.

Find the length of the cylinder using an object of wood or a book that can be inserted into the gap above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is measured from the outside of the door how to repair patio door lock the center of cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw to the end of the cylinder.

Check the lock's length

If your patio door latch is difficult to turn, even after cleaning and lubricating, there's a possibility that it is out of alignment with the strike plate hole. Make sure that your door is balanced, and if the hinge screws are tight. In many cases, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards can solve the issue.

Oftentimes, the problem occurs when the strike of the lock is too small for the latch how to repair tilt and slide patio door properly engage. In this instance, you can widen the opening using the hammer and chisel. Then test the latch to ensure that it doesn't touch the jamb frame of the door or fall on it.

You should identify the type mortise lock you currently have before buying the replacement. This can be done by looking at the end faceplate and determining if it is square or round. Look at each screw hole on the existing lock and note their dimensions. This will assist you in finding an alternative that is of the same size and will fit perfectly into the hole that you already have.

In addition to identifying the current mortise lock, you'll also want to inspect it for any bends or scratches that might require repair. A damaged or bent latch is more likely than one that has been used a lot to break. Replace the lock if it displays indications of damage.

After you've examined the lock and determined which type of replacement you'll need, it's time to start working on the actual repair. The old spindle and handle should be removed from the doorway to the patio door repair service near me. Insert the new handle. Start by installing the inside handle. Align it with the spindle and then secure it into by using two bolts or screws. Install the exterior handle following the interior handle. Once you've completed these steps, you can test the new handles to make sure they can be opened and closed easily tilt and slide patio door repairs near me that the latch catches correctly when you strike the plate.

Make sure you check the Strike of the door.

The strike plate and door latch are two pieces which work together to lock the door. If they are not aligned properly and the latch doesn't latch the door properly. This problem is usually very simple to solve.

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 secure the strike plate in place, allowing it to move horizontally, but not separating it from the frame of the door. Adjust the strike plate to align its holes for receiving with latch hooks of the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted then tighten the screws and then test the door to see if it shuts smoothly with the new adjustment.

These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners who have sliding patio doors. However, they are essential to secure and unlock your door. The metal plates are typically located at the top and bottom of the door jamb where they serve as the door's latch. The door latch slides onto the strike plate, and it creates a seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted or not properly installed, it could stop the latch from locking the door securely.

A misalignment between the strike plate and latch is the most common reason for the patio lock to not close or remain in place. This can be verified using the "lipstick" test. Apply a little lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt and then cover it with masking tape. When you shut the door, the lipstick will leave marks on the tape, indicating you exactly where the latch meets the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low you can easily adjust the strike plate.

The sliding patio door locks protect your home from intruders, and if they're not functioning properly, you need to solve the issue fast. Follow these simple steps to fix your patio door lock and restore its function.