Patio Door Lock Repairs

Over time, the wear and tear can lead to lock malfunctions. There are fortunately, a number of easy and efficient methods that can restore your uPVC patio sliding door repair near me door's security.

These quick fixes will make your home safer, whether you realign the lock or clean the locking mechanism.

Clean the Lock

Although patio doors are a great way to let the outside in and keep out the elements, they can also be a security risk when your lock isn't functioning as it should. With time, wear and tear, cold and hot weather dirt, and other debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. With a little effort, you can make sure that your patio door's lock always functions properly.

It is essential to first clean the patio door lock and all moving parts. This will help to remove any coatings or dirt that may be preventing your lock from functioning properly. Start by wiping the moving parts of the lock for your patio door with a wet cloth. Then, use a scouring cloth or rough damp cloth to scrub the dirt-infested parts of the door and frame. Then, wipe the entire lock using dry cloths to eliminate any remaining dampness, and allow it to dry completely before applying it to the next time.

If you have an exterior door that is fitted with pin tumbler latch mechanisms it is possible to grease the lock by applying powdered graphite to the key or using a lubricant made of Teflon, such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant can be easy to apply and doesn't break down over time. If you're unable to locate an appropriate lubricant You might use a pencil with a thick tip. Put the pencil in the lock, then shake it to distribute the graphite.

Sliding patio door tracks also require regular maintenance to keep them free of dirt, dust, and debris. These tracks can be especially susceptible to ice and snow which could cause them to jam or bind which makes it difficult for your patio doors to open and close.

Sliding patio door track rails and rollers can be cleaned by removing damaged or dirty weather stripping, cleaning them, then installing it. The same can be done to patio door rollers which can be wiped down and sprayed with non-stick lubricant to help them move freely.

Lubricate the moving parts

uPVC french doors, like sliding patio doors, work by using 3 to 4 or sometimes five-point locking mechanisms, which include the handle and lock cylinder operated by the key. These doors require maintenance, oiling of the moving parts. This can be done with a thin oil, but never WD40. This should be done every year, at a minimum.

If hinges that are sagging don't cause the issue, it could be that the door isn't aligned. It may be rubbing against or catching the hole of the strike plate in the frame. The solution is to take off the strietermined the type of lock replacement you require It's time to start the actual repair. The old handle and spindle should be removed from the patio door. Install the new handle. Begin by installing the interior handle and aligning it with the spindle and then securing it by using the two screws or bolts that hold it. Once the handle in the interior is installed, you can install the exterior handle and screw it into the position as well. Once you have completed these steps, test the handles to make sure that they can be shut and open easily and that the latch works properly with the strikeplate.

Check the Door's Strike

The strike plate and door latch are two pieces that work together to secure the door. If these are misaligned and the latch isn't latching the door shut properly. Fortunately, the issue is usually easy to correct.

Check the holes for receiving of the strike plate to ensure they are clear of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the screws that hold the strike plate in place, allowing it to move vertically, but not detaching it from the frame of your door. Then adjust the strike plate so that its holes for receiving align with the latch hooks on the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted, tighten all screws and test if the door closes smoothly.

Door strike plates can be a bit difficult to access for homeowners with sliding patio door repair near me patio doors, but they're crucial to lock and unlock your door. These metal plates are located at the top and bottom jambs of the door, where they serve as the support for the latch. Then, the door latch is able to slide into the strike plate, creating an airtight seal when closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted or not installed correctly, it may hinder the latch from locking the door securely.

A misalignment of the latch and strike plate is a common reason for a patio lock to not close or stick. This can be checked with the "lipstick" test. Rub some lipstick along the edge of the deadbolt and then cover it with masking tape. The lipstick will leave a mark when you shut the door. This will indicate exactly where the latch joins the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high, you can alter the strike plate.

Sliding patio door locks help protect your home from burglars. If they're not functioning correctly, you should repair the issue quickly. Follow these easy steps to fix your patio door lock and restore it's functionality.