The 10 Scariest Things About Sliding Patio Door Lock Repair
Sliding Patio Door Lock Repair
A safe lock will ensure the security and safety of your patio glass repair door. The good news is that many lock issues can be solved by preventive maintenance and simple tools.
For instance, a lock that is difficult to lock could simply need the lubrication. It is important to use the correct kind of lubricant to prevent damage to sensitive components.
Drafts and air leaks
Over time, a sliding door patio will show wear and tear, which can impact its performance. Fortunately, a few easy-to-do maintenance tasks can address several common issues.
Drafts and air leaks in the doorframe can cause discomfort in your home, as well as higher energy bills. Air leaks are usually caused by weather stripping that has worn out or a door that isn't properly aligned. These issues can be addressed by replacing the weather stripping and ensuring that the door is aligned properly. This will increase the efficiency of your home.
A sticky track on the door may make it difficult to open or close the door. In most cases, this issue is solved by making sure that the tracks and rollers are lubricated using a silicone-based fluid. It's also a good idea to clean the track regularly to keep it free of debris and dirt which can cause friction and jamming.
If you notice carpets or rugs that are damp around the sliding patio doors, it could be a sign of a leak. Water can seep into the door frame through gaps or cracks caused by improper installation. Replacing damaged gaskets or seals and installing a threshold sweep or seal can help with these issues, however in extreme cases, it might be necessary to replace the door itself.
Additionally, broken or cracked glass isn't only an eye-sore -- it can be a danger to safety and affect the door's insulating capabilities. Replacing damaged or broken glass is a complicated task that should be done by an experienced professional. If you're experiencing any of these problems with your sliding patio door seek out a local contractor for repairs or replacements. You can then enjoy your sliding patio doors with peace of mind. The longer you wait to fixing these issues, the more the damage that will result. Sliding patio doors are stylish and a practical addition to your home, but they need regular maintenance to ensure they function smoothly for a long time.
Worn Handle
The sliding patio door hardware can be neglected and worn out by foot traffic and dust. Some problems can be easily fixed by DIY solutions. Others require a professional repair or replacement. With a little care and attention homeowners can keep sliding patio doors in great functioning condition for many years.
Although most sliding patio door locks utilize the same latch mechanism as the traditional pin tumblers that is found in regular doors, certain types are unique and have their own unique mechanisms. Glass sliding door latches can get stuck or catch on when foreign objects are stuck between the lock and handle spindle. This type of problem is usually solved by lubricating the latch, or using a graphite pen in order to eliminate any debris that has accumulated from the lock mechanism.
The handle itself may malfunction, causing it be difficult to open or loose. This problem is usually caused by the screws that hold the handle in place getting too loose or wearing out. A novice DIYer can fix these handles using an ordinary screwdriver.
A sliding patio door frame repair door that fails to close properly could cause a lot of hassle and, in some cases, can even lead to damage to your home or energy leaks. The tracks for sliding patio doors are usually built to run across the floor. This track can be worn out by dirt, sand, or grit. If left unchecked, this wear could cause the sliding panel to become misaligned with the jamb, or lose contact with the track entirely. Sliding patio door jambs and tracks should be cleaned frequently to avoid a buildup of dirt that could damage or block the movement of the track.
Door runners that slide are also benefited by regular lubrication to prevent stiffness and jamming. These parts are exposed to constant flow of dirt and dust that could be absorbed into the runners, and should be cleaned and lubricated when needed. It is essential that your sliding doors are working properly for your family's comfort.
Faulty Weatherstripping
The weatherstripping around the sliding patio door plays an important function in keeping insects, light, and moisture out. If your weatherstripping is lacking chunks, is hard or brittle or does not provide a secure seal, you might need to replace it. One simple test is to close the door and observe whether light shines through. A dollar bill can be placed under the weatherstripping to check. Pull it either way. If the dollar bill slides easily under the weatherstripping, it's time to replace the weatherstripping.
Cleaning the mechanism of the lock is essential to maintaining its smooth operation and security. Make sure to regularly clean and remove the handle, keyway and latch using a household cleaning product. You can also lubricate the lock mechanisms by using a silicone based lubricant. This will ensure that they are functioning smoothly.
With the right tools and knowledge replacing the locking mechanism can be a simple DIY project. It is essential to know the specifics of your existing lock, such as its name and the position of the keyway. This will allow you to select and install the right replacement. If you own a digital camera, take photos of the lock to convey the details to a lock supplier and make sure you purchase the right lock for your patio door.
To replace the lock, unwind it and then remove any screws holding it in place. Then loosen the screws that secure the strike of the lock to the jamb. Move the strike up and down until the latch line up with it. If the door's latch doesn't latch when you attempt to close it, it's because the lock isn't aligned with the strike properly.
Be aware of the location of the mounting holes and the direction of the hasp's swing and size of the strike to help choose the best replacement lock. If you are unsure how to proceed, ask an expert or visit your local home improvement store to help. They can usually guide you to the right type of replacement lock for your patio glass repair door and teach how to install it.
Broken Lock
A damaged lock could cause serious harm to your home's security. It's impossible to ensure your home's security if the door doesn't close and lock properly. A professional locksmith will inspect the lock and make repairs or replacements when needed.
In some cases dirt or debris could obstruct the locking mechanism. If this happens it is possible to lubricate the lock to help remove the obstruction. This is something that should be done on a regular basis to avoid dirt from causing problems with your lock. This is usually done by using graphite pencils to push upwards and downwards on the latch of the lock in order to remove any obstructions. Some people also use oil-based lubricants, like WD-40, to help lubricate their locks. However it is important to avoid this because the residue of liquids can attract dust and other debris, and block your lock.
The most popular type of lock used on sliding patio doors is a mortise lock. They have keyways cut into the door frame and can accept a rectangular-shaped keys. A locksmith can assist you determine if your lock is standard or has a special design that may require an alternative type of key. They can also assist you to find a compatible replacement.
If you're replacing mortise locks on your patio door sliding it is crucial to find one that matches the current lock design and size. Many doors have their names or the name of the manufacturer etched into the corner of the frame and can be useful in communicating with locksmiths and hardware stores about the right parts. You can also use a digital camera and snap a picture of your existing lock to learn more regarding its size shape, design, and other details.
Surface-mount locking is also available for patio door that do not have mortise cutouts. These locks are mounted on the frame of the door with an adapter and a rectangular lock key. These locks are usually offered in a complete set, which includes mortise locks in the E2105 range, a recessed housing, or an escutcheon and a latch. These locks can block the similar way as sliding door pin tumblers, however, you can fix the latch by putting in graphite or oil.