Patio Door Lock Repairs

Over time, patio doors go through wear and tear that can lead to locks that fail. However, there are simple and effective steps that can help restore your uPVC patio door's security.

It's about realigning the lock or cleaning the mechanism for locking these simple fixes will make your home more secure.

Clean the Lock

Patio doors are fantastic to let the outdoors in while keeping out the elements. However, they can be an issue for security if the lock doesn't work properly. Over time, wear, tear, hot and cold weather, dirt, and debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. With a little care you can ensure that your patio door's lock is always working properly.

It's important to first clean the local patio door repairs door lock as well as all moving parts. This will help remove any dirt or coatings that may be preventing your lock from functioning effectively. Begin by wiping all 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 the hard-to-reach areas of the door or frame that are coated with dirt. You should then wipe down the entire lock using dry cloths to eliminate any remaining dampness, and allow it to dry completely before making use of it again.

If you have an exterior door that is fitted with pin tumbler latch mechanisms it is possible to lubricate the lock by applying graphite powdered to the key or by using a Teflon-based lubricant like WD-40 Multi-Use. This type of lubricant can be easy to apply and doesn't break down as time passes. If you're unable find the right lubricant for your lock, you can apply a pencil that has a larger tip. Insert the pencil into the lock and move it around a bit to spread the graphite.

Regular maintenance is also necessary to keep the tracks of sliding patio screen door repair near me doors clear of dust, dirt and other debris. These tracks are particularly vulnerable to ice, snow, and other particles, which can cause them block or become stuck. This could make it difficult for your patio door to open and close.

The sliding glass patio door repair rails of the patio door track and rollers can be cleaned by removing damaged or dirty weather stripping and cleaning them before installing it. The rollers for patio doors can be cleaned and sprayed down with an oil that is non-stick.

Lubricate the moving parts

uPVC french doors, which are similar to sliding patio door repair service near me doors, work with 3 to 4 or sometimes 5-point locking mechanisms which include the lock cylinder and handle operated by the key. They require maintenance and lubrication of the moving parts. This can be accomplished with the use of a thin oil but not WD40. This should be done at least once a year.

If hinges that are sagging don't cause the issue, it could be that the door is not aligned. It may be rubbing against or catching the hole of the strike plate in the frame. Remove the strike plate, and employ a sharp tool to expand its mortise. This will allow the latch to fit into the hole, and also prevent it from rubbing against the frame.

Find the length of the cylinder using the help of a piece of wood patio door repair 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 cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw to the end of the cylinder.

Check the width of the lock.

If your patio door latch is difficult to turn, even after cleaning and lubricating, it's possible that it's out of alignment with the strike plate hole. Verify that the door is properly balanced and if the hinge screws are in good condition. In most cases, moving the strike plate downwards or upwards could solve the issue.

The most common issue is when the strike of the lock is too small for the latch to properly engage. In this situation you'll need to expand the hole with the hammer or chisel and then test the latch to make sure that it connects to the strike plate smoothly without rubbing against or catching on the frame of the door jamb.

You should identify the type mortise lock you currently have before buying an alternative. This can be done by looking at the faceplate and noting whether it is square or round. Then, look at the screw holes in the existing lock and note the dimensions of each. This information will help you find a replacement that is the same width and is a perfect fit for the hole that you already have.

In addition to identifying the mortise lock that is currently in use, you'll also want to inspect it for any bends or scratches that may need repairing. A badly bent or damaged latch is more likely than one that's frequently used to break. Replace the lock if it displays signs of damage.

Once you've checked the lock and decided on the type of replacement you need now is the time to start working on the actual repair. Remove the old handle and spindle out of your patio door, and then install the new one. Begin by installing the handle in the interior by aligning it with the spindle and then securing it in place by using the two screws or bolts which hold it. Install the exterior handle following the interior handle. After you've completed the steps, you can test the new handles to make sure they open and close easily and that the latch catches correctly when you strike the plate.

Make sure the door's strike is checked

The door latch and strike plate are two parts of the lock that work to ensure the latch secures the door. A misaligned strike plate or door latches will result in the latch not being able to latch the door properly. This issue is usually easy to solve.

First, check the holes in the strike plate's receiving to ensure they are free of obstructions, such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the keeper screws that keep the strike plate in place, allowing it to move vertically but not separating it from the frame of the door. Adjust the strike plate to align its holes for receiving with the latch hooks of the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted tighten the screws, and test the door to determine whether it shuts easily with the new adjustment.

These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners with sliding patio doors. However, they are essential to secure and unlock your door. The metal plates are typically placed on 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 an airtight seal. If the strike plate is damaged or rusted or not installed correctly the latch may not lock the door properly.

The most common reason for the patio door lock to become stuck or not close is a misalignment between the latch and the strike plate. The easiest method to check for this is with the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick on the edge of the deadbolt, then attach masking tape over it. When you close the door the lipstick will leave an impression on the tape that will show you exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high, you can easily alter the strike plate.

The sliding patio door locks keep your home safe from intruders, and if they're not functioning correctly, you must repair the issue quickly. Follow these simple steps to repair your patio door lock and restore it's functionality.