Patio Door Lock Repairs

Over time, the wear and tear could cause lock malfunctions. There are a few easy steps you can take to ensure the security of your uPVC door.

Whether it's realigning the lock or cleaning the mechanism that locks these simple fixes will help you make your home more secure.

Clean the Lock

Although patio doors are a great option to bring the outside in and keep the elements out but they can also pose an issue for security in the event that your lock isn't operating as it should. With time, wear and tear, hot and cold weather dirt and debris can cause your patio door lock repair near me door lock to become difficult to operate. With a little attention, you can make sure that your lock for your patio door always works properly.

It's crucial to clean your patio door lock repair door's lock and all its moving parts. This will help get rid of any grime or coatings that may be preventing your lock from functioning properly. Start by wiping all the moving parts of your patio door lock using a damp cloth. Then apply a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub the dirt-infested areas of the door and frame. It is recommended to wipe 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 outdoor door that has a pin tumbler latch mechanism it is possible to apply lubrication to the lock by applying powdered graphite to the key or applying a Teflon-based lubricant such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant can be easy to apply and doesn't break down with time. If you're not able to find the right lubricant for your needs, you might use a pencil with a thick tip. Place the pencil into the lock, and shake it around to distribute the graphite.

Regular maintenance is also required to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors clear of dust, dirt and debris. They are particularly susceptible to snow, ice and other debris, which can cause them get stuck or to bind. This could make it difficult for your patio sliding door repair near me door to be opened and closed.

You can clean the track rails and rollers on sliding patio doors by removing weather stripping that is dirty or damaged. Clean it and replace it. The same can be done for rollers on patio doors, 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 repair patios, operate using 3 to 4, or sometimes 5 points locking mechanisms. They include the lock cylinder and handle which is operated by a key. These doors require maintenance, the lubrication of moving parts. This can be done with an oil that is thin (never WD40) and should be done once per year.

If sagging hinges aren't a cause, the door could be skewed and catch or rubbing against the strike plate's hole in the frame. The solution is to take off the strike plate, and then use a sharp chisel to enlarge the mortise it rests in. This will allow the latch to fit into the hole and prevent it from scratching against the frame.

When the cylinder is out of the way take a measurement of its width using an object or a 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 of 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 latch isn't able to turn, even after oiling and cleaning, it's possible that it is not aligned with the strike plate. Check to see if the door is properly balanced and whether the hinge screws are secure, but in many cases it is possible to move the strike plate upwards or downwards can correct the issue.

The latch may not be able to engage properly when the strike of the lock is not large enough. In this instance, you'll need to enlarge the hole using a chisel or hammer and then test the latch to make sure that it connects to the strike plate smoothly without rubbing against or landing on the frame of the door jamb.

You must identify the kind of mortise lock you have before buying the replacement. This can be done by looking at the faceplate of the lock and determining whether it is round or square. Look at each screw hole in the existing lock, and note their size. This information will assist you in finding a replacement that is of the same size and fits perfectly into the hole that you already have.

In addition to identifying the current mortise lock, you'll also need to check it for any nicks or bends that might require repair. A bent or damaged latch is more likely break than one that's not frequently used, so be sure to replace the lock with a brand new one that is secure in the event you notice any signs of damage or wear.

Once you've checked the lock and identified which type of replacement you'll need now is the time to start working on the actual repair. The old spindle and handle should be removed from the doorway to the patio. Insert the new handle. Begin by installing the interior handle. Align it with the spindle and then secure it into position using two bolts or screws. Install the exterior handle following the interior handle. Once you have completed these steps check the handles to ensure that they open and shut easily and that the latch is in contact correctly with the strikeplate.

Check the Door's Strike

The strike plate and the door latch are two pieces that work together to secure the door. An incorrectly aligned strike plate and door latches can result in the latch not being able to latch the door properly. This issue is usually simple to fix.

Examine the holes that receive the strike plate to ensure they are clear of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Release the screws that hold the strike plate in position. This allows it to move vertically, but it will not be able to separate from the frame. Then, you can adjust the strike plate so that its holes for receiving align with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted then tighten the screws and then test the door to see whether it locks smoothly after the new adjustment.

Door strike plates can be a bit difficult to access for homeowners who have sliding patio doors, however they're essential to lock and unlock your door. The metal plates are situated between the top and bottom jambs of your door, where they support its latch. The door latch slides into the strike plate, and it creates an airtight seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or is not installed correctly, the latch may not be able to lock the door properly.

One of the most common reasons for a patio door lock to stick or not close is a misalignment between the latch and the strike plate. This can be checked with the "lipstick" test. Apply a little lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt and then cover it with masking tape. The lipstick will leave an impression when you shut the door. This will show you exactly where the latch joins the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high it is possible to alter the strike plate.

If your patio door locks for sliding are not working properly, they can keep your home secure from intruders. You must resolve this issue as quickly as possible. If you follow these steps, you can fix your patio door repairs near me door's lock and restore its functionality in a matter of minutes.