Ten Repair Patio Doors That Really Change Your Life
How to Troubleshoot and Repair Patio Door Locks
Keep your patio doors in a good working condition to protect your home against unwanted intruders. The elements can cause misalignment or damage to your patio doors and their locks.
If your patio door lock doesn't operate properly it is possible to make basic repairs at home. These steps will fix problems with the handle, keyway, and latch.
Inspect the Lock
patio doors repairs doors are often targeted by burglars due to the large amount of glass and convenient place within a house. It is important that your locks work properly to keep your home secure. There are a few easy ways to Repair patio Doors patio door locks that have stopped working.
The first step is to check the lock to see if anything hinders it from locking or latching. It is important to address any issues you find like loose screws or rust. In some instances the slightest adjustment to the position of the patio door could suffice to solve the problem.
Another common issue is debris or dust that could cause the lock mechanism to not function properly. Clean your patio door and wipe down the lock hardware frequently to prevent this. You can use a mild detergent solution when needed, but remember to dry the lock completely afterward.
In addition, it is a good idea to lubricate the lock regularly. The moving parts inside your uPVC patio lock are similar to those used in a precision-tuned machine. They can jam and become stuck as with any other mechanical device. A graphite pencil, or a small amount of lubricant can be used to remove any debris or dirt from the lock's cylinder. This will keep it running smoothly.
It is essential to be aware of the exact dimensions of the patio door lock repair door lock. This will help you locate the right lock replacement that fits perfectly with your existing mechanism. If you're unsure of how to do it get help, consult a professional tradesperson or locksmith for help.
Clean the Lock
Over time, cold and hot weather dust and dirt can cause the delicate parts of your door lock to get blocked. These issues could compromise your home security. These problems are easy to solve if you know how to do.
Clean your lock before attempting any repairs. With a damp cloth, wipe away any dirt or stains that might be preventing your lock from functioning properly. Use soapy water with hot water and a small amount of grit to clean the lock mechanism. Let your locks dry completely after cleaning them.
The majority of patio doors are secured with a mortise locking system. This is a secure lock, but it is susceptible to issues in time. If you find that your uPVC locks have become stuck, it is important to clean and lubricate them. For an uPVC lock it is best to begin by cleaning the latch plate using a small amount of soapy water. Then, remove the screws that hold the body of the latch in the position. After removing the latch plate and handle, you can remove it from its slot on the door frame.
After the latch has been removed then you can lubricate it using a light engineering lubricant like WD40. If you don't own WD40, you can also use graphite pencils to help get rid of any dirt or grit within the mechanism. If your uPVC lock doesn't work it is possible to relocate the lock cylinder. This will require some additional tools and should be done by a professional. You can practice repositioning the cylinder without having to take it off the door. Open and close the door while the cylinder is in lock position. Make pencil marks on the frame where the screws holding the locking cylinder are.
Lubricate the Lock
If your lock is clean of dirt and debris, it's a good time to lubricate the keyhole as well as the locks themselves. The right lubricant will keep your lock in good shape and extend its lifespan.
Dry graphite powder is great for lubricating small metal components like locks because it's not oily or sticky and lasts longer than liquid lubricants. It's easy to apply, and you can also use it on sliding doors, door hinges, and garage door tracks. Master locksmith Shawn Fago recommends using a pencil-type graphite lubricant that is specifically designed for lock cylinders.
Liquid lubricants may be more effective than graphite particularly in humid climates. Silicone lubricants resist water and do not attract dirt and dust as much as other liquid lubricants. They are effective at both low and high temperatures. Certain silicone lubricants accumulate over time and eventually replace other lubricants you've tried.
Teflon-based lubricants are a good alternative to silicone-based lubricants as they're long-lasting and do not attract dirt and dust. They're also excellent for cold climates, since they prevent the build-up of ice within the lock.
If your lock's cylinder is extremely stiff and hard to turn, it's probably worn out and will need to be replaced. A professional locksmith can disassemble the lock mechanism and replace it with a new cylinder matched to your keys. They can also repair and modify existing locking mechanisms. If your door doesn't have an cylinder for your lock or faceplate, a professional can install it to improve security and security. They can also install new faceplates for your lock on your patio door to are in keeping with the rest of the door.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If cleaning and lubricating it doesn't work, the issue could be that the latch on the door isn't aligned correctly with the frame or jamb. Open the sliding patio doors and take a look upwards and downwards at the opening of the latch. If the door is parallel to the frame or jamb, then you can check. If not you can loosen the screws that hold the latch body in place and adjust it up or down until the lock latch catches the latch's hasp with a tight snap when the door is closed.
Sometimes the latch isn't closing properly due to a worn-out or damaged cylinder. You'll need a replacement cylinder if the worn cylinder is making it difficult to turn the key. It is essential to select the new cylinder that's exactly the same size as the previous one and has the same keyway, so that you can easily replace it by removing the two parts of the lock apart and then inserting the new cylinder.
Many home improvement stores carry replacement cylinders. You'll need the name and model number of your existing cylindrical to purchase the replacement. If you aren't sure of the model or manufacturer, take a picture of the cylinder and its mounting screws. Then visit your local hardware store for assistance.
If you have a brand new cylinder, unscrew the screw with a flat head that holds it in place and remove the escutcheon plate. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the lock cylinder, escutcheon plates and lock from the door as well as the door frame. Place the screw in a secure place so that you don't lose or damage it. Then, loosen enough the set screw that is located on the cylinder keep (the metal piece that fits into the rectangular hole in the door).
Replace the Lock
A patio door lock that isn't functioning properly can be an immediate security risk. Dirt and debris can become stuck in the lock mechanisms. If this issue isn't addressed promptly, the lock will eventually stop working and will no longer offer security. Replacing the patio door lock is a easy DIY project that requires just a few tools and a small amount of time.
Start by examining the lock to see what is causing the problem. If cleaning and lubrication do not help, the latch could be bent too much to work properly. If this is the case, you should replace the lock latch with a mortise locking system to ensure that it's as secure and strong as you can.
If you're not confident in tackling this DIY project yourself, consult with a locksmith or door hardware expert to assist you in the installation of a new lock. They'll have all the tools and experience to properly install the lock.
Maintaining your patio screen door repair near me door lock in good condition is a matter of routine maintenance. Check that the knobs and handles aren't loose and if they're tight, tighten them when needed. Lubricate the lock at least once per year to prevent it from squeezing or becoming stiff. Locks that have been subjected to extreme use or temperatures should be lubricated regularly. It is essential to choose a lubricant that is specifically made for locks (WD-40's Specialist Dry PTFE Anti Friction or GT85). For the best results apply the lubricant direct to the key hole of the lock mechanism.