Patio Door Lock Repairs

Over time, wear and tear could cause lock malfunctions. There are fortunately, a number of easy and efficient ways to restore your uPVC glass patio door repair door's security.

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

Clean the Lock

While patio doors are a great option to bring the outside in and keep out the elements however, they can also pose an issue for security in the event that your lock isn't operating as it should. As time passes, wear and tear, extreme cold and hot weather dirt and debris could take their toll on your patio door's lock and cause it to become difficult to open. With some minor maintenance, you can ensure your patio door's locks will always perform properly.

It is essential to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This helps get rid of any grime and coatings that may hinder the lock from functioning in the way it should. Begin by wiping down all the moving parts on the lock for your patio door with a wet cloth. Then apply a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub the dirt-infested areas of the door and frame. Then clean the lock using a dry towel to get rid of any moisture. Allow it to air-dry before you use it.

If you have an exterior door that is fitted with pin tumbler latch mechanisms it is possible to grease 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 applied quickly and does not dissolve over time. If you're unable find the right lubricant to use with your lock, apply a pencil that has a thicker tip. Insert the pencil in 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 other debris. They are particularly susceptible to snow, ice and other particles, which can cause them jam or bind. This could make it difficult for your patio door lock repair door to open and close.

Tracks for sliding patio doors and rollers can be cleaned by removing any dirty or damaged weather stripping and then cleaning it, before installing it. The same applies to patio door repair near me door rollers which can be wiped down and sprayed with non-stick lubricant in order to allow them to move freely.

Lubricate the moving parts

uPVC French Doors, like sliding patios, operate by using 3 to 4 or sometimes 5 points locking mechanisms. They include the lock cylinder and handle that is operated by a key. These doors also require maintenance, specifically lubrication on the moving parts. This can be done using a thin oil (never WD40) and should be done every year.

If the hinges aren't causing the issue, it could be that the door isn't aligned. It may be rubbing or catching against the strike plate's opening in the frame. The solution is to remove the strike plate and use a sharp chisel to enlarge the mortise that it rests in. This will permit the latch to fit properly into the hole and prevent it from rubbing against the frame.

Measure the diameter of the cylinder using an object of book or wood that is able to fit into the space above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is measured from the outside of the door to the center of cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw to the end cylinder.

Verify 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 not in alignment with the strike plate hole. Check to see if the door is properly balanced and if the hinge screws are tight However, in many cases it is possible to move the strike plate up or down can correct the issue.

The latch may not be able to engage properly when the strike of the lock is too small. In this instance you'll have to increase the hole using a chisel or hammer and then test the latch to make sure that it is able to engage the strike plate in a smooth manner without rubbing against or landing on the frame of the door jamb.

Before buying a replacement lock, you should first determine the mortise type of lock you currently have. You can do this by taking a look at the faceplate of the lock and determining if it is round or square. Then, look at the screw holes in the existing lock and note the size of each. This will enable you to locate a replacement lock that is exactly the same size and fits into the hole you have already.

You'll need to identify the mortise lock and inspect it for scratches, bends or other damage that requires to be fixed. A damaged or bent latch is more prone to break than one that's been used much, so be sure to replace the lock with a new, secure version in the event you notice any signs of wear or damage.

Once you've checked the lock and determined which kind of replacement you require, it's time to start working on the actual repair. Take the old handle and spindle from the patio door, and then install the new one. Start by installing the interior handle. Align it with the spindle, and then secure it in place using the two screws or bolts. Once the interior handle is in, install the handle that is outside and screw it in place as well. After you've completed these steps, you can test the new handles to ensure they are able to open and close with ease and that the latch is catching correctly with the strike plate.

Check the Strike of the Door.

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

First, examine the strike plate's receiving holes to ensure they are clear 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 door frame. Then, adjust the strike plate until its receiving holes align with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate is adjusted tighten all screws and check if the door closes smoothly.

These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners who have sliding patio doors. However, they are essential for locking and unlocking your door. These metal plates are located between the top and bottom jambs of your door, where they support its latch. The door latch slides onto the strike plate, and it creates a seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted or not installed correctly, it may stop the latch from locking the door securely.

A misalignment between the latch and strike plate is the most common reason for the patio door handle repair near me lock not to close or remain in place. The easiest method to check for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Apply some lipstick on the edge of the deadbolt and put masking tape on it. The lipstick will leave the mark when you close the door. This will reveal exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high you can easily adjust the strike plate.

If your sliding patio door locks are not working properly, they can keep your home secure from intruders. It is imperative to fix this problem as soon as you can. Follow these steps to fix your patio door lock and restore it's functionality.