Patio Door Lock Repairs

Over time, patio door wear and tear could cause lock malfunctions. There are a few simple steps you can take to restore the security of your uPVC door.

These quick fixes will ensure your home is secure no matter if you adjust the lock or clean the mechanism.

Clean the Lock

Although patio doors are a great option to let the outside in and keep out the elements however, they can also pose an issue for security when your lock isn't functioning as it should. Over time wear and tear, extreme cold and hot weather, dirt and debris can take their toll on the lock on your patio door and cause it to become difficult to open. With a little care you can ensure that the lock on your patio door always works properly.

It's important to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This will help to remove any grime or coatings that might be hindering your lock from functioning correctly. Begin by wiping down the moving parts of your patio door's lock using a damp cloth. then use a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub any difficult-to-access areas of the door or frame that are covered in dirt. Then, wipe the entire lock with a dry cloth to remove any remaining dampness, and allow it to air dry prior to using it again.

If you have an exterior door that is fitted with pin tumbler latch mechanisms You can lubricate the lock by applying graphite powdered to the key or applying an lubricant based on Teflon like WD-40 Multi-Use. This kind of lubricant can be applied easily and does not dissolve over time. If you're unable to locate an appropriate lubricant, you could try using a pencil that has an extremely thick tip. Place the pencil in the lock and move it around to spread the graphite.

Sliding patio door tracks also require regular maintenance to ensure that they're free of dust, dirt, and debris. They are particularly susceptible to snow and ice which could cause them to be stuck or jammed which makes it difficult for your patio doors to open and close.

Clean the track rails and rollers of sliding patio doors by removing any damaged or dirty weather stripping. Clean it and replace it. The same is true for rollers on patio doors, which can be wiped down and then sprayed with a non-stick lubricant that will allow them to move freely.

Lubricate the Moving Parts

uPVC French Doors, similar to sliding patios, are operated using 3 to 4, or sometimes 5 points locking mechanisms. They include the handle and lock cylinder which is operated by a key. These doors also need maintenance, company specifically lubrication on the moving parts. This can be accomplished with a thin oil but not WD40. It should be done at least once per year.

If the hinges aren't causing the issue, it could be that the door isn't aligned. It could be rubbing or catching against the strike plate's opening in the frame. The solution is to remove the strike plate and then use an abrasive chisel, which will enlarge the mortise that it rests in. This allows the latch to fit properly in the hole and prevents scratching or catching on the frame.

Once the cylinder is cleared of the way and out of the way, measure its width using an object or a piece of wood that will fit in the adjustment screw gap above the lock. 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 is hard to turn even after cleaning and oiling it's possible that it's not aligned with the strike plate. Check if your door is properly balanced and that the hinge screws are tight. In many cases, however, simply moving the strike plate downwards or upwards could solve the issue.

Most of the time, the issue occurs when the strike of the lock is too small for the latch to properly engage. In this case, enlarge the hole with an hammer and chisel. Then test the latch to ensure that it does not rub against the jamb frame of the door or get caught on it.

You must identify the kind of mortise lock you have before purchasing the replacement. You can do this by looking at the faceplate on the lock and determining if it is square or round. Examine each screw hole on the existing lock and note the size. This will enable you to find the replacement lock that has exactly the same width tilt and slide patio door repairs will fit in the hole you have already.

In addition to identifying the mortise lock that is currently in use, you should also examine it for any nicks or bends that may require repairing. A damaged or bent latch is more likely than one that has frequently used to break. Replace the lock if you notice indications of damage.

Once you've inspected the lock and identified which kind of replacement you require, it's time to start working on the actual repair. Remove the old handle and spindle out of your patio door, and then install the new one. Begin by installing the interior handle. Align it with the spindle and then secure it in by using two screws or bolts. Once the handle's interior is in, install the handle that is outside and screw it in place, too. Once you've completed these steps, you can test the new handles to ensure they can be opened and closed easily and that the latch catches correctly with the strike plate.

Check the Door's Strike

The door latch and strike plate are the two parts of the lock that work together to ensure that the latch is secure the door. If they are not aligned properly and the latch isn't latching the door shut properly. This issue is usually easy to fix.

First, check the holes in the strike plate's receiving to ensure they are clear of obstructions, such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then, loosen the keeper screws that hold the strike plate in place and allow it to move vertically but not removing it from the frame of your door. Adjust the strike plate to align its holes for receiving with the latch hooks of the door latch. After the strike plate has been adjusted tighten the screws, and test the door to determine whether it locks smoothly after the new adjustment.

Door strike plates can be a bit difficult to locate for homeowners with sliding patio door repairs near me patio doors, however they're crucial for locking and unlocking your door. The metal plates are situated at the top and bottom jambs of your door, where they serve as the support for the latch. The door latch slides onto this strike plate and creates a seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted or not properly installed, it could prevent the latch from locking the door securely.

The most common reason for the patio door lock to become stuck or not close is a misalignment of the latch and the strike plate. This can be verified using the "lipstick" test. Apply some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt and then cover it with masking tape. When you shut the door the lipstick will leave a mark on the tape, indicating exactly where the latch contacts the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low it is possible to alter the strike plate.

The sliding patio door locks protect your home from burglars. If they're not functioning correctly, you must fix the problem quickly. Follow these easy steps to repair patio doors your patio door lock and restore its functionality.