Over time, wear and tear can cause lock malfunctions. There are fortunately, a number of easy and efficient ways to restore your uPVC patio door's security.
Whether it's realigning the lock or cleaning the mechanism that locks, these quick fixes can make your home more secure.
Clean the Lock
Patio doors are fantastic to let the outdoors inside and keeping out the elements. However they could pose an issue for security in the event that the lock isn't working properly. With time, wear and tear, hot and cold 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 will always work properly.
It's important to first clean the double glazed patio door repairs door lock as well as all moving parts. This will help get rid of any grime or coatings that might be hindering the lock from working effectively. Start by wiping the moving parts on your patio door lock using a wet cloth. Then, use a scouring cloth or rough damp cloth to scrub the areas that are soiled of the door frame and frame. It is recommended to wipe the entire lock using a dry cloth to remove any remaining dampness and allow it to air dry before using it again.
If your patio door has pin-tumbler latches You can lubricate it by applying powdered Graphite to the key. You can also apply a Teflon oil like WD-40 Multi Use Product. This type of lubricant is able to be applied easily and doesn't dissolve over time. If you are unable to find the right lubricant for your needs you could try using a pencil that has an extremely sharp tip. Place the pencil into the lock, and shake it around to distribute the graphite.
Tracks for sliding patio doors require regular maintenance to ensure that they're free of dirt, dust and other debris. These tracks are especially susceptible to snow, ice, and other debris that can cause them get stuck or to bind. This could make it difficult for your patio door to open and shut.
Sliding patio door track rails and rollers can be cleaned by removing any dirty or damaged weather stripping and cleaning them before replacing it. The rollers for patio doors can be cleaned and sprayed with an oil that is nonstick.
Lubricate the moving parts
uPVC French Doors, like sliding patios, are operated by using 3 to 4 or sometimes, 5 points locking mechanisms. They include the lock cylinder and handle that is operated by the key. These doors require maintenance, oiling of the moving parts. This can be done using a thin oil (never WD40) and should be done every year.
If sagging hinges don't cause the problem, it could be that the door is misaligned. It may be rubbing against or catching the strike plate's hole in the frame. Remove the strike plate and use a sharp tool to enlarge the mortise. This will permit the latch to fit into the hole, and stop it from scratching against the frame.
When the cylinder is out of the way take a measurement of its width using a book or piece of wood that can fit into the adjustment screw gap above the lock. The outer dimension is the distance from the outside of the door to the middle of the cylinder, and the inner dimension runs from the center of the adjustment screw to 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, there's a possibility that it's out of alignment with the strike plate hole. Make sure that your door is properly balanced and if the hinge screws are secure. In a lot of instances, moving the strike plate downwards or upwards could solve the issue.
The latch might not work properly when the strike of the lock is not large enough. In this situation, you need to widen the opening using the hammer and chisel. Then test the latch to ensure that it doesn't touch the jamb frame of the door or get caught on it.
Before purchasing a new lock, it is important to determine what kind of mortise lock you currently have. This can be done by looking at the faceplate and noting whether it is round or square. Then, look at the screw holes on the current lock and note the size of each one. This will help you find an alternative that is the same width and fits perfectly into the hole you have already.
You'll need to identify the mortise lock, and then examine it for scratches, bends, or other damage that needs to be fixed. A damaged or bent latch is more likely break than one that's been used much, so be sure to replace the lock with a brand new, secure version when you spot any indications of wear or damage.
After you've determined the type of lock replacement you need It's time to start the actual repair. Remove the handle and spindle from your patio door, and then insert the new one. Begin by installing the handle inside and aligning it with the spindle, and then securing it in place by using the two screws or bolts that hold it. Install the exterior handle following the interior handle. After you've completed the steps then you can test the new handles to make sure they open and close easily and that the latch is catching correctly with the strike plate.
Make sure the door's strike is checked
The door latch and strike plate are the two parts of the lock that work to ensure that the latch locks the door. An incorrectly aligned strike plate and door latches can cause the latch to not latch the door properly. This problem is usually very easy to solve.
Check the holes for receiving of the strike plate to ensure they are free of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Remove the screws that hold the strike plate. This allows it to move vertically, but it will not be able to separate from the frame. Then, adjust the strike plate to ensure that its holes for receiving align with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted, tighten the screws and test the door to determine if it shuts smoothly with the new adjustment.
These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners who have sliding patio doors. However they are vital to secure and unlock your door. The metal plates are situated at the top and bottom jambs of the door, which are where they help support the latch. The door latch is able to slide into the strike plate to create a seal when closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or is not properly installed the latch might not properly lock the door.
The most common reason for the patio door lock to stick or not close is a misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This can be verified using the “lipstick” test. Rub some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt, then cover it with masking tape. The lipstick will leave a mark when you shut the door. This will indicate exactly where the latch meets the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low it is possible to alter the strike plate.
Locks for sliding patio doors help keep your home safe from burglars. If they're not functioning properly, you need to fix the problem quickly. Follow these easy steps to fix your patio door lock and restore its function.(Image: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/doorpanels-300x200.jpg)
