5 Laws That'll Help The Patio Door Lock Repair Industry
Patio Door Lock Repairs
Over time, patio doors undergo wear and tear that could result in lock malfunctions. There are a few simple steps you can follow to ensure the security of your uPVC door.
Whether it's realigning the lock or cleaning the mechanism for locking These simple fixes can increase the security of your home.
Clean the Lock
Patio doors are ideal to let the outdoors in and keeping the elements out. However, they can be a security threat when the lock isn't functioning properly. Over time, wear, tear, cold and hot weather, dirt, and debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. Fortunately, with a little maintenance you can ensure that your patio door's locks always function correctly.
It is essential to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This will help get rid of any dirt or coatings that might be hindering your lock from working effectively. Start by wiping down the moving parts of your patio door's lock with a damp cloth, then make use of a scouring pad, or a rough damp cloth to scrub any hard-to-reach areas of the door and frame that are covered in dirt. Then, wipe the lock down with a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture. Allow it to air-dry before you use it.
If you have an exterior door that is fitted with a pin tumbler latch mechanism, you can grease the lock by applying graphite powdered to the key or using an lubricant based on Teflon such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This kind of lubricant is easy to apply and it won't disintegrate with time. If you are unable to find the right lubricant for your lock, you can make use of a pencil with a larger tip. Insert the pencil into the lock and move it around to spread the graphite.
Sliding patio door tracks also require regular maintenance to ensure that they're free of dust, dirt and other debris. They are particularly susceptible to snow, ice, and other particles, which can cause them jam or bind. This can make it difficult for your patio door to open and close.
Clean the track rails and rollers on sliding patio doors by removing weather stripping that is damaged or dirty. Clean it, and then replace it. The same can be done to patio door rollers which can be wiped down and sprayed with a non-stick lubricant that will allow them to move freely.
Lubricate the Moving Parts
uPVC French doors, like sliding patios, are operated by using 3 to 4 or occasionally 5 point locking mechanisms. These include the lock cylinder and handle that is operated by a key. They require maintenance and lubrication of the moving parts. This can be accomplished using an oil that is thin (never WD40) and should be done every year.
If sagging hinges don't cause the issue, it could be that the door is not aligned. It may be rubbing or catching the strike plate's hole in the frame. Remove the strike plate and employ a sharp tool increase the size of the mortise. This lets the latch sit correctly in the hole and avoids scratching or catching on the frame.
Take a measurement of the diameter of the cylinder using an object 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 middle of the cylinder, while the inner dimension runs from the center of the adjustment screw to the end of the cylinder.
Check the width of the lock.
If your patio door latch isn't able to turn, even after cleaning and oiling it could be because it is not aligned with the strike plate. Verify that the door is properly balanced and that the hinge screws are secure. In you could look here , moving the strike plate upwards or downwards will solve the issue.
The latch might not work properly if the strike of the lock is not large enough. In this case, enlarge the opening using an hammer and chisel. Then test the latch so that it doesn't rub against the jamb frame of the door or get caught on it.
You must identify the kind of mortise lock you are using before you purchase a replacement. This can be done by looking at the faceplate of the lock and determining if it is square or round. Look at each screw hole on the current lock, and note their size. This will help you find an alternative lock that is of the same size and will fit perfectly into the hole that you already have.
You'll need to identify the mortise lock, and then examine it for any bends, scratches or other damage that requires to be repaired. A badly damaged or bent latch is more likely break than one that's not used much, so be sure to replace the lock with a new, secure version if you find any signs of wear or damage.
After you've examined the lock and identified which type of replacement you'll need then it's time to begin working on the actual repair. The old handle and spindle should 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 in position using two screws or bolts. Install the exterior handle following the interior handle. 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 is catching properly with the strike plate.
Check the door's Strike
The strike plate and door latch are two parts which work together to lock the door. If they are not aligned properly and the latch doesn't latch the door properly. This is typically simple to solve.
First, examine the holes in the strike plate's receiving 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 your door. Then, adjust the strike plate until its holes for receiving are aligned with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted tighten all screws and test if the door closes smoothly.
These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners with sliding patio doors. However they are vital for locking and unlocking your door. The metal plates are situated between the top and bottom jambs of the door, where they serve as the support for the latch. Then, the door latch is placed on the strike plate, creating a seal when closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted or not installed correctly, it may stop the latch from locking the door securely.
The most common reason for a patio door lock to not close or not close is a misalignment between the latch and strike plate. The most effective way to test for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt, then attach masking tape over it. When you shut the door, the lipstick will leave marks on the tape, indicating exactly where the latch contacts the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low it is possible to adjust the strike plate.
Locks for sliding patio doors help keep your home safe from intruders, and if they're not working properly, you need to fix the problem quickly. Follow these steps to fix your patio door lock and restore its functionality.