Patio Door Lock Repairs

Over time, patio doors go through wear and tear that can result in lock malfunctions. There are a few basic steps you can take to restore the security of your uPVC door.

It's about realigning the lock or cleaning the mechanism that locks These simple fixes can increase the security of your home.

Clean the Lock

Patio doors are fantastic to let the outdoors inside and keeping the elements out. However they can pose a security threat when the lock isn't functioning properly. With time wear and tear cold and hot weather dirt and debris could take their toll on the lock on your patio door and cause it to become difficult to open. Fortunately, with a little maintenance you can ensure that your patio door's locks always perform correctly.

In the beginning, it's essential to clean the lock on your patio door and all its moving parts. This helps to get rid of any grime and coatings that may be preventing the lock from functioning as it should. Start by wiping down the moving parts of your patio door's lock with a damp cloth, then employ a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub the hard-to-reach parts of the door and frame that are ingrained with dirt. Then wipe the lock with a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture. Allow it to air-dry before you use it.

If your patio door repair service near me door uses a pin-tumbler latch, you can apply powdered Graphite on the key. You can also use a Teflon lubricant like WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This kind of lubricant is easy to apply and it doesn't dissolve as time passes. If you are unable to find the right lubricant to use with your lock, apply a pencil that has a thicker tip. Put the pencil into the lock and move it around to distribute the graphite.

Regular maintenance is also necessary to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors free from dust, dirt and debris. These tracks are especially susceptible to ice, snow, and other debris that could cause them to block or become stuck. This could make it difficult for your patio door to open and close.

Tracks for sliding glass patio doors repair Patio Door Lock Repair doors and rollers can be cleaned by removing damaged or dirty weather stripping, cleaning them, then installing it. The same is true to patio door rollers which can be wiped down and then sprayed with a non-stick lubricant to help them move freely.

Lubricate the moving parts

uPVC French doors, like sliding patios, operate using 3 to 4, or sometimes 5 points locking mechanisms. This includes the lock cylinder and handle that is operated by keys. They require maintenance and the lubrication of moving parts. This can be accomplished with a thin oil, but never WD40. This should be done at least once a year.

If hinges that are sagging don't cause the problem it could be because the door is misaligned. It could be rubbing against or catching the hole of the strike plate in the frame. Take off the strike plate and use a sharp tool to expand the mortise. This lets the latch sit correctly in the hole and avoids scratching or catching on the frame.

Once the cylinder is cleared of the way, measure its width with a book or piece of wood that will fit in the adjustment screw gap above the lock. The outer dimension is measured from the outside of door to the center 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. Examine if the door is properly balanced and whether the hinge screws are secure however, in many instances it is possible to move the strike plate up or down can correct the issue.

The latch might not work properly if the strike of the lock is too small. In this case, enlarge the hole with an hammer and chisel. Then, test the latch to ensure it doesn't touch the jamb frame of the door or fall on it.

Before purchasing a new lock, first identify the type of mortise lock you currently have. This can be done by looking at the end faceplate and observing whether it is round or square. Then, look at the screw holes on the current lock and note the size of each one. This will help you find an alternative lock that is the same size and fits perfectly into the hole you have already.

In addition to identifying the mortise lock that is currently in use, you'll also need to check it for any nicks or bends that may need repairing. A bent or damaged latch is more likely break than one that's not utilized often, so make sure to replace the lock with a brand new, secure version when you spot any indications of damage or wear.

After you've determined the type of lock replacement that you require It's time to begin the actual repair. The spindle and handle must be removed from the patio door. Install the new handle. Begin by installing the interior handle. Align it with the spindle and then secure it into by using two screws or bolts. Install the exterior handle following the interior handle. Once you have completed these steps Test the handles to make sure they can be shut and open easily and that the latch works correctly with the strikeplate.

Check the Strike of the Door.

The door latch and strike plate are the two components of the lock that work together to ensure the latch secures the door. Misaligned strike plate and door latch will result in the latch not being able to latch the door correctly. This is typically easy to fix.

Check the holes for receiving of the strike plate to ensure they are clear of obstructions like dirt or plastic plugs. Loosen the keeper screws holding the strike plate. This allows it to move horizontally, but it will not be able to separate from the frame. Then, you can adjust the strike plate to ensure that its holes for receiving are aligned with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted, 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 with sliding patio door repair service near me patio doors. However, they are essential to lock and unlock your door. The metal plates are situated on the top and bottom jambs of your door, which are where they help support the latch. The door latch is able to slide into the strike plate to create an airtight seal when closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or not properly installed, it could hinder the latch from locking the door securely.

The most common reason for the patio door lock to not close or not close is a misalignment of 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 and attach masking tape over it. The lipstick will leave an impression when you shut the door. This will show you exactly where the latch meets the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high it is possible to adjust the strike plate.

If your sliding patio door locks aren't working correctly, they can keep your home secure from intruders. You need to resolve this issue as quickly as you can. Follow these steps to fix your patio door lock and restore it's function.