Patio Door Lock Repairs

Over time, patio doors undergo wear and tear that could result in locks that fail. However, there are simple and effective ways to restore your uPVC patio door's security.

These easy fixes can make your home safer no matter if you adjust the lock or clean the mechanism.

Clean the Lock

Although patio doors are a great way to let in the outside and keep out the elements, they can also be security risks in the event that your lock isn't operating as it should. Over time, wear, tear, cold and hot weather, dirt, and debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. With a little attention, you can make sure that your patio door's lock is always working correctly.

It is essential to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This will help remove any dirt and coatings that may be preventing the lock from functioning in the way it should. Start by wiping down the moving parts of the lock for your patio door using a damp cloth. then employ a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub any difficult-to-access parts of the door and frame that are covered in dirt. Then clean the lock with a dry cloth to get rid of any remaining moisture. Let it air dry before using it.

If you have an exterior door that is fitted with a pin tumbler latch mechanism You can lubricate the lock by applying powdered graphite to the key or by using a Teflon-based lubricant such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant can be easy to apply, and it won't disintegrate with time. If you are unable to find the right lubricant to use with your lock, use a pencil with thicker tip. Put the pencil in the lock, then shake it around to distribute the graphite.

Tracks for sliding patio doors require regular maintenance to keep them free of dirt, dust, and debris. They are particularly susceptible to ice and snow which can cause them to jam or bind and make it difficult for your patio doors to open and close.

Tracks for sliding patio doors and rollers can be cleaned by removing weather stripping that is damaged or dirty and cleaning them before replacing it. The rollers for patio doors can be cleaned and sprayed with an oil that is non-stick.

Lubricate the moving parts

uPVC French doors, like sliding patio door repairs patios, are operated with 3 to 4 or occasionally 5 point locking mechanisms. This includes the lock cylinder and handle that is operated by the key. These doors also require maintenance, specifically lubrication on the moving parts. This can be done using an oil that is thin (never WD40) and is recommended to be done at least once per year.

If sagging hinges aren't a cause, the door could be skewed and catch or rubbing against the strike plate hole in the frame. Remove the strike plate, and employ a sharp tool to increase the size of the mortise. This lets the latch sit correctly in the hole, and also prevents rubbing or catching on the frame.

Take a measurement of the length of the cylinder using the help of a piece of book or wood patio door repair that fits into the gap above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is measured from the outside of the door to the center of cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw to the end of the of the cylinder.

Check the lock's width

If your patio door latch isn't able to turn even after oiling and cleaning it's possible that it's not aligned with the strike plate. Verify that the door is balanced and if the hinge screws are secure, but in many cases shifting the strike plate upwards or downwards could fix the problem.

The most common issue is when the strike of the lock is too small for the latch to properly engage. In this case, enlarge the hole with a chisel and hammer. Then, test the latch so that it doesn't rub against the jamb frame of the door or fall the frame.

It is important to identify the type of mortise lock you are using before you purchase a replacement. You can do this by looking at the faceplate on the lock and determining whether it is round or square. Then, take a look at the screw holes in the existing lock and note the size of each. This information will help you find an alternative that is of the same size and is a perfect fit for the hole that you already have.

In addition to identifying the current mortise lock you'll also want to inspect it for any nicks or bends that may need repairing. A badly bent or damaged latch is more likely than one that has been used a lot to break. Replace the lock if you notice indications of damage.

Once you've inspected the lock and decided on the type of replacement you'll need then it's time to begin working on the actual repair. Take the old handle and spindle from the patio door, and then insert the new one. Begin by installing the handle in the interior and aligning it with the spindle, and then securing it in place with the two screws or bolts that secure it. Once the handle in the interior is installed, put in the handle on the outside and screw it in the position as well. Once you have completed these steps check the handles to ensure that they open and shut easily and that the latch is in contact properly with the strikeplate.

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 the latch secures the door. Misaligned strike plate and door latch will cause the latch to not latch the door correctly. This problem is usually very simple to solve.

First, inspect the holes in the strike plate's receiving to make sure they are clear of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the screws that keep the strike plate in place, allowing it to move vertically but not removing it from the door frame. Adjust the strike plate so that it aligns its holes for receiving with the latch hooks of the door latch. Once the strike plate has been adjusted, tighten all screws and test whether the door shuts smoothly.

These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners who repairs sliding patio doors have sliding patio doors. However they are crucial to lock and unlock your door. The metal plates are typically located on the top and bottom of the door jamb where they support the door's latch. The door latch is placed on the strike plate, creating the seal when it is closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or not installed correctly, it can hinder the latch from locking the door securely.

The most common reason for the patio door lock to not close or not close is a misalignment between the latch and the strike plate. The most effective way to test for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick on the outside of the deadbolt, and then apply masking tape over it. When you shut the door, the lipstick will leave a mark on the tape that will show exactly where the latch meets the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low you can adjust the strike plate.

If your sliding patio door locks aren't working correctly they can help keep your home safe from burglars. You must repair the issue as soon as possible. Follow these simple steps to repair your patio door lock and restore it's functionality.