Patio Door Lock Repairs

Over time, wear and tear can cause lock malfunctions. Fortunately, there are several simple and efficient methods that can restore your uPVC patio door's security.

Whether it's realigning the lock or cleaning the mechanism for locking, these quick fixes can increase the security of your home.

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 when the lock isn't functioning properly. Over time, wear, tear, hot and cold weather dirt, and other debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. With a little attention, you can make sure that your lock for your patio door is always working in a proper manner.

In the beginning, it's important to clean the lock on your patio door and all the moving parts. This helps get rid of any grime and coatings that may hinder the lock from functioning as it should. Start by wiping the moving parts on your patio door lock using a damp cloth. Then, use a scouring cloth or a rough damp cloth to scrub the dirt-infested areas of the door and frame. Then wipe the lock with a dry cloth to get rid of any moisture. Let it air dry before you use it.

If your patio door is equipped with pin-tumbler latches You can lubricate it by applying powdered Graphite on the key. You can also apply a Teflon lubricant such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This kind of lubricant is easy to apply, and it won't disintegrate with time. If you're unable to find the correct lubricant for your lock, apply a pencil that has a more of a thicker tip. Put the pencil into the lock and jiggle it around to spread the graphite.

Sliding patio door tracks also require regular maintenance to keep them free of dirt, dust, and debris. These tracks are especially susceptible to snow, ice and other particles, which can cause them get stuck or to bind. This can make it difficult for your patio door to be opened and closed.

You can clean the track rails and rollers on sliding patio glass door repair near me doors by removing weather stripping that is dirty or damaged. Clean it, and then replace it. The same is true to 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, similar to sliding patios, are operated by using 3 to 4 or sometimes, 5 point locking mechanisms. This includes the handle and lock cylinder that is operated by the key. These doors require maintenance, oiling of the moving parts. This can be accomplished using a thin oil (never WD40) and is recommended to be done at least once per year.

If sagging hinges aren't a reason, the door could be skewed and catch or striking the strike plate hole within the frame. The solution is to remove the strike plate and then use an abrasive chisel, which will enlarge the mortise it rests in. This lets the latch sit perfectly in the hole and prevents scratching or catching on the frame.

Take a measurement of the width of the cylinder with a piece of wood or a book that is able to fit into the space above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is the distance from the outside of the door to the center of the cylinder. the inner dimension extends from the center of the adjustment screw to the end of the cylinder.

Verify the width of the lock.

If your patio door latch isn't able to turn even after cleaning and lubricating, it's possible that it is out of alignment with the strike plate hole. Verify that the door is properly balanced and that the hinge screws are tight. In many cases, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards can fix the problem.

The most common issue is when the strike of the lock is too small for the latch to properly engage. In this instance, you can widen the opening with a chisel and hammer. Then, fitter test the latch to ensure it doesn't touch the jamb frame of the door or fall on it.

Before buying a replacement lock, you should first determine the mortise type of lock you have. This can be done by taking a look at the faceplate of the lock and determining if it is square or round. Examine each screw hole on the current lock, and note their size. This will enable you to find an alternative lock that is exactly the same size and will fit in the hole you have already.

In addition to identifying the current mortise lock you should also examine it for any nicks or bends that may need repairing patio doors. A damaged or bent latch is more likely than one that has been used a lot to break. Replace the lock if you notice evidence of damage.

After you've examined the lock and identified which type of replacement you'll need now is the time to start working on the actual repair. Remove the old handle and spindle from your patio doors repairs door, and then put in the new one. Begin by installing the handle in the interior, aligning it with the spindle and then securing it with the two screws or bolts that hold it. Once the handle in the interior is in, install the handle that is outside and screw it into the position as well. Once you've completed these steps, you can test the new handles to make sure they can be opened and closed easily and that the latch locks correctly with the strike plate.

Check the Strike on the door.

The door latch and strike plate are the two components of the lock that work to ensure the latch secures the door. If these are misaligned and the latch isn't latching the door shut correctly. Fortunately, this issue is usually easy to correct.

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 hold the strike plate in place and allow it to move vertically but not detaching it from the frame of the door. Adjust the strike plate so that it aligns its holes for receiving with latch hooks of the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted, tighten the screws and then test the door to determine whether it locks smoothly after the new adjustment.

These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners with sliding 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. Then, the door latch is able to slide into the strike plate to form an airtight seal when closed. 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 one common cause for a patio lock to not close or stick. The easiest method to check for this is to perform the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt and attach masking tape over it. When you close the door the lipstick will leave a mark on the tape that will show exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low it is possible to adjust the strike plate.

If your patio door locks for sliding aren't functioning properly they can help keep your home secure from intruders. You must repair the issue as soon as possible. If you follow these steps, you'll be able to fix your patio glass door repair near me door's lock and get it back to normal in no time.