The 9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Patio Door Lock Repair

Patio Door Lock Repairs

Over time, the wear and tear can lead to 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 make your home more secure.

Clean the Lock

While patio doors are a great option to let the outside in and keep out the elements but they can also pose security risks when your lock isn't functioning as it should. With time, wear and tear, cold and hot weather, dirt, and debris can cause your patio doors repairs near me door lock to become difficult to operate. Fortunately, with some minor maintenance, you can ensure your patio door's locks will always work properly.

It's important to first clean the patio sliding door repair near me door lock and all moving parts. This will help to remove any grime or coatings that could be preventing your lock from functioning properly. Begin by wiping down all the moving parts of your patio door lock using an aqueous cloth. Then you can use a scouring paper or a damp, rough cloth to scrub the areas that are soiled of the frame and door. Then clean the lock using a dry towel to get rid of any remaining moisture. Allow it to air-dry before you use it.

If you have a patio door repairs near me door that uses pin tumbler latch mechanisms it is possible to apply lubrication to the lock by applying graphite powdered to the key or using an lubricant based on Teflon such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant can be easy to apply, and it doesn't dissolve with time. If you're not able to find a suitable lubricant you could try using a pencil that has a thick tip. Place the pencil in the lock and jiggle it around a bit to distribute the graphite.

Regular maintenance is also essential to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors clear of dust, dirt and debris. They are particularly vulnerable to snow and ice which can cause them to jam or bind which makes it difficult for your patio doors to open and close.

Tracks for sliding patio doors and rollers can be cleaned by removing any damaged or dirty weather stripping and cleaning them before installing it. The same can be done for rollers on patio doors, which can be wiped down and sprayed with a non-stick lubricant to help them move freely.

Lubricate the moving parts

uPVC french doors, similar to sliding Patio Door Lock Repair doors, operate by using 3-4 or occasionally 5-point locking mechanisms which include the lock cylinder and handle operated by the key. They also require maintenance, and specifically lubrication of the moving parts. This can be done with the use of a thin oil but not WD40. It is recommended to do it every year, at a minimum.

If hinges that are sagging aren't the reason, the door could be skewed and catch or striking the strike plate hole in the frame. Remove the strike plate and employ a sharp tool to enlarge the mortise. This allows the latch to sit correctly in the hole and prevents getting caught or rubbing against the frame.

Measure the diameter of the cylinder using the help of a piece of wood or a book that can be inserted into the gap above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is the distance from the outside of the door to the center of the cylinder, while the inner dimension extends from the center of the 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, it's possible that it is out of alignment with the strike plate hole. Check to see if the door is balanced and if the hinge screws are secure, but in many cases, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards can fix the issue.

The latch may not be able to engage properly in the event that the strike of the lock is too small. In this case, enlarge the opening with an hammer and chisel. Then, test the latch to ensure it doesn't rub against the jamb frame of the door or get caught the frame.

Before you purchase a replacement lock, it is important to identify the type of mortise lock you have. This can be done by looking at the end faceplate and noting whether it is round or square. Then, look at the screw holes in the existing lock and note the dimensions of each. This information will assist you in finding an alternative lock that is the same size and fits perfectly into the hole that you already have.

In addition to identifying the mortise lock that is currently in use, you should also examine it for any bends or scratches that may need repairing. A badly damaged or bent latch is more likely break than one that's been frequently used, so be sure to replace the lock with a brand new, secure version if you find any signs of wear or damage.

After you've determined the type of lock replacement you need Now it's time to begin the actual repair. The spindle and handle must be removed from the patio door. Introduce the new handle. Start by putting in the handle in the interior, aligning it with the spindle and then securing it in place with the two screws or bolts that hold it. Once the handle's interior is installed, put in the handle on the outside and screw it in the position as well. Once you've completed these steps you can test the new handles to ensure they open and close easily and that the latch is catching correctly with the strike plate.

Make sure you 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. An incorrectly aligned strike plate and door latches will cause the latch to not latch the door correctly. This problem is usually very easy to solve.

First, inspect the holes in the strike plate's receiving to ensure they are clear of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Loosen the keeper screws holding the strike plate in position. This will allow it to move vertically but not separate it from the frame. Then adjust the strike plate to ensure that its holes for receiving are aligned with the latch hooks on the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted tighten the screws, and then test the door to see if it shuts smoothly with the new adjustment.

Door strike plates can be difficult to access for homeowners with sliding patio doors, but they are essential to lock and unlock your door. These plates are usually placed on the top and bottom of the door jamb where they support the door's latch. Then, the door latch is able to slide into the strike plate to create a seal when closed. If the strike plate has been damaged, rusted, or is not installed correctly the latch may not lock the door properly.

A misalignment of the latch and strike plate is a common reason for the patio door locks repair lock not to close or remain in place. The most effective way to test for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick on the edge of the deadbolt, then put masking tape on it. When you shut the door, the lipstick will leave a mark on the tape, indicating exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high it is possible to alter the strike plate.

Sliding patio door locks help protect your home from burglars. If they're not functioning correctly, you must fix the problem quickly. Follow these steps to repair your patio door lock and restore it's function.