The Hidden Secrets Of Repair Patio Door
How to Troubleshoot and Repair Patio Door Locks
Keep your patio doors in a good condition to guard your home against unwanted intruders. However, the elements may cause the doors and locks to become damaged or misaligned.
You can fix your patio door lock on your own if it is not working correctly. These steps will address problems with the latch, keyway and handle.
Check the Lock
patio screen door repair doors are often targeted by burglars because of their large amount of glass and convenient position within a house. It is essential that your locks function properly to ensure your home is secure. Fortunately, there are easy ways to troubleshoot and repair patio door locks that have stopped working correctly.
The first step is to examine the lock to ensure nothing is preventing it from locking or latching. It is important to address any issues you find such as loose screws or corrosion. In some cases the slightest adjustment to the direction of the local patio door repairs (visit the website) door might suffice to resolve the problem.
Debris or dust can cause the lock mechanism to function properly. Clean your patio door and clean all hardware of the lock regularly to avoid this. You can make use of a mild detergent when needed, but be sure to dry the lock completely afterward.
In addition, it is an ideal idea to lubricate the lock on a regular basis. The moving parts inside your uPVC patio door track repair lock are similar to those used in a precision-tuned machine. They can jam and become stuck like 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 cylinder. This will keep it functioning smoothly.
The exact dimensions of the patio door lock is crucial. This will help you choose an appropriate lock that is compatible with your current mechanism. If you're not sure how to do this, it's advisable to contact an expert tradesperson or locksmith for help.
Clean the Lock
Over time, cold and hot weather, dust, and dirt can cause the intricate components of your door lock to get stuck. These problems can threaten your home's security. However, it's not difficult to fix these issues If you know how.
Clean your lock prior to making any repairs. Clean up any stains or debris with a moist cloth. Then use a bit of hot soapy water to clean the lock mechanism and remove any dirt or grime that has built up over time. After you've cleaned your locks, let them dry completely before re-using them.
The majority of patio doors are secured using a mortise locking system. This is a safe lock, but it is susceptible to issues with time. If your uPVC locks has become stuck, it is important to clean and lubricate them. For a uPVC lock, you can start by cleaning the latch plate using a small amount of hot soapy water. Next, you'll want to remove the screws that keep the latch in the position. Once you have the latch plate and handle removed, you'll be ready to remove the latch itself from its slot in the door frame.
Once the latch has been removed and lubricated, you can apply with a light engineering lubricant like WD40. If you don't own WD40 then a graphite pen can be used to remove dirt and grit off the mechanism. If your uPVC locks aren't working, you may have to relocate the your lock cylinder. This requires some additional tools and should be done by a professional. You can try repositioning the cylinder without removing it from the door by opening and closing the door with the cylinder in the lock position, after which drawing pencil marks on the inside of the frame where the screws hold the cylinder in place.
Lubricate the Lock
When your lock is clean and free of dirt and debris it's time for lubrication of the keyhole and the locks themselves. A good lubricant will keep your lock in good condition and prolong its life.
Dry graphite is a fantastic way to lubricate small metal parts, such as locks. It's non-sticky and oily. It also lasts longer than liquids. It's easy to apply, and you can also apply it to sliding patio door repair service near me 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 are more efficient than graphite powder especially in humid climates. Silicone lubricants repel water and don't attract dirt and dust as much as other liquid fluids. They work well in both low and high temperatures. Certain silicone lubricants may accumulate over time, and displace other lubricants that you've used.
Teflon Lubricants are an ideal alternative to silicone lubricants as they are long-lasting and don't attract dirt or dust. They're also ideal for cold environments, as they prevent the build-up of ice within the lock.
If your lock cylinder feels stiff and difficult to turn, it's likely to be worn out. It's going to need to be replaced. A professional locksmith will dismantle the lock mechanism, and then install a new cylinder that matches your current keys. They can also make repairs and adjustments to existing lock mechanisms. A professional can also replace the lock cylinder if your door isn't equipped with one. This will improve safety 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 do not work, then the issue could be due to the latch on the door isn't properly aligned with the frame or jamb. Open the sliding patio door and look up and down at the opening for the latch. If the door is aligned with the frame or jamb and you are able to check, then it is. If not then loosen the screws that hold the latch body in place and adjust it upwards or downwards until the latch catches the latch's hasp with a tight snap when the door is closed.
Sometimes, the latch can be difficult to close due to a worn-out or damaged cylinder. You'll require a new cylinder if the worn one is making it difficult to turn the key. It is recommended to select a cylinder with the same keyway and dimensions as the one you had previously. This will allow you to replace it with ease by unscrewing the two halves and putting in the replacement cylinder.
Many home improvement stores carry replacement cylinders. You'll have to know the manufacturer and model of your existing cylinder to be able to purchase one that is compatible with it. If you don't have the model or manufacturer, take a picture of the cylinder along with its mounting screws and go to the hardware store for assistance.
When you have a new cylinder, unscrew the screw with a flat head that holds it in place, and remove the plate that holds it in place. Make use of a screwdriver to remove the lock cylinder and escutcheon plate from the door and the door frame. Place the screw in a secure place to ensure that you don't lose or damage it. Then loosen the set screw on the cylinder's keep (the metal part that fits into the rectangular cutout in the door) and let it loose enough to turn the cylinder.
Replace the Lock
A patio door lock that isn't functioning properly can be an extremely risk to security. Dirt and debris could become stuck within the lock mechanism. If this issue isn't taken care of promptly, the lock may eventually stop working and no longer offer security. It's a straightforward DIY project to change the patio door lock. You only need a few tools and some time.
Start by examining the lock to determine what's causing the issue. If lubricating and cleaning don't help, the latch could be bent too much to perform as it should. If this is the case, you should replace the lock latch with mortise locking to ensure it's as strong and secure as possible.
If you're not confident in tackling this DIY project on your own seek out a locksmith or door hardware expert to assist you with the installation of an entirely new lock. They'll have the tools and experience to install the lock correctly.
Maintaining your patio door lock in good working condition is a matter of routine maintenance. Make sure the knobs and handle aren't loose and if they're, tighten them as needed. Lubricate the lock at least once per year to prevent it from squeezing or becoming stiff. It is recommended that locks exposed to heavy use or extreme weather conditions should be lubricated more often. The type of lubricant is crucial, so make sure to choose one that's specifically designed to be used on locks (GT85 or WD-40's Specialist Friction Dry PTFE). Apply the lubricant directly to the keyhole of the lock mechanism for best results.