Patio Door Lock Repairs

Over time, the wear and tear can cause lock malfunctions. However, there are simple and efficient ways to restore your uPVC patio door's security.

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

Clean the Lock

Although patio doors are an excellent way to let in the outside and keep out the elements, they can also be a security risk if your lock isn't working as it should. With time, wear and tear, cold and hot weather dirt, and other debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. With a little attention you can ensure that your lock for your patio door is always working in a proper manner.

It is important to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This helps to flush out any accumulated grime and coatings that may be preventing the lock from functioning in the way it should. Begin by wiping down all the moving parts of your patio door lock with an aqueous cloth. Then, use a scouring cloth or rough damp cloth to scrub the areas that are soiled of the frame and door. Then wipe the lock with a dry towel to get rid of any remaining moisture. Let it air dry before you use it.

If your patio door track repair door uses pin-tumbler locks, 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 easy to apply and doesn't break down over time. If you're unable find the right lubricant to use with your lock, make use of a pencil with a more of a thicker tip. Put the pencil in the lock, and shake it to distribute the graphite.

Sliding Patio Door Repair Service Near Me patio glass repair near me door tracks also require regular maintenance to ensure they're free of dirt, dust and other debris. These tracks are particularly vulnerable to ice, snow, 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.

Sliding patio door track rails and rollers can be cleaned by removing any weather stripping that is damaged or dirty, cleaning them, then replacing it. The same applies for patio doors repairs near me 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, similar to sliding patio doors, work with 3 to 4 or sometimes 5-point locking mechanisms that include the lock cylinder and handle operated by a key. They require maintenance and oiling of the moving parts. This can be accomplished using a thin oil (never WD40) and should be done every year.

If sagging hinges aren't a cause, the door may be skewed and catch or striking the strike plate hole in the frame. Remove the strike plate, and use a sharp tool to increase the size of its mortise. This will permit the latch to fit properly into the hole, and stop it from rubbing against the frame.

Take a measurement of the length of the cylinder using an object 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 middle of the cylinder, and the inner dimension extends from the center of the adjustment screw until the end of the cylinder.

Verify the width of the lock.

If your patio door latch is difficult to turn even after cleaning and lubricating, there's a possibility that it's not in alignment with the strike plate hole. Check if your door is balanced, and if the hinge screws are tight. In a lot of cases, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards will fix the problem.

Oftentimes, the problem occurs when the lock's strike is too small for the latch to engage. In this situation, you need to widen the opening using an hammer and chisel. Then test the latch to ensure that it does not rub against the jamb frame of the door or fall the frame.

You must identify the kind of mortise lock that you have before buying an alternative. This can be done by looking at the faceplate of the lock and determining if it is round or square. Then, take a look at the screw holes in the existing lock and note the dimensions of each. This information will help you find an alternative that is of the same size and is a perfect fit for the hole you have already.

You'll want to identify the mortise lock and inspect it for bends, scratches or other damage that needs to be fixed. 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 one that is secure if you find any signs of damage or wear.

Once you've checked the lock and determined which type of replacement you need now is the time to start working on the actual repair. Remove the handle and spindle from the patio door, and then put in the new one. Start by putting in the handle inside, aligning it with the spindle, and then securing it by using the two bolts or screws that secure it. Once the handle's interior is installed, you can install the exterior handle and screw it into place, too. After you've completed the steps you can test the new handles to make sure they are able to open and close with ease and that the latch is catching properly with the strike plate.

Check the Strike on the door.

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 latch will result in the latch not being able to latch the door correctly. This is typically simple to repair.

First, inspect the strike plate's holes for receiving to ensure they are free of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Remove the screws that hold the strike plate in position. This will allow it to move vertically but not separate it from the frame. Adjust the strike plate to align 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 shuts easily with the new adjustment.

Door strike plates can be difficult to access for homeowners who have sliding patio doors, however they're essential to lock and unlock your door. The metal plates are situated at the top and bottom jambs of the door, where they support its latch. The door latch is inserted into this strike plate and creates an airtight seal. If the strike plate is damaged or rusted or not properly installed the latch might not properly lock the door.

A misalignment between the strike plate and latch is the most common reason for the patio 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 then attach masking tape over it. The lipstick will leave the mark when you shut the door. This will show you exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low it is possible to alter the strike plate.

If your patio door locks for sliding aren't functioning properly, they can keep your home safe from burglars. You must resolve this issue as quickly as possible. By following these easy steps, you can repair your patio door's lock and restore its functionality within a short time.