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Patio Door Lock Repairs

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

If it's resetting the lock or cleaning the locking mechanism These simple fixes can make your home more secure.

Clean the Lock

Patio doors are fantastic for bringing the outdoors inside and keeping the elements out. However they could pose an issue for security in the event that the lock isn't working correctly. Over time, wear, tear, hot and cold weather dirt, and other 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 always functions in a proper manner.

It's important to first clean the patio door lock as well as all moving parts. This will help remove any dirt or coatings that may be preventing the lock from working properly. Start by wiping all the moving parts of the lock for your patio door with an aqueous cloth. Then you can use a scouring paper or a damp, rough cloth to scrub the dirt-infested areas of the door and frame. It is recommended to wipe the entire lock with a dry cloth to remove any remaining dampness, and allow it to dry completely before using it again.

If you have an outdoor door that has pin tumbler latch mechanisms You can lubricate the lock by applying powdered graphite to the key or applying an lubricant based on Teflon such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This kind of lubricant is easy to apply and doesn't break down with time. If you're unable to find the right lubricant to use with your lock, you can use a pencil with thicker tip. Put the pencil in the lock, and shake it around to distribute the graphite.

Regular maintenance is also necessary to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors clear from dust, dirt and debris. These tracks are especially susceptible to ice and snow which can cause them become stuck or slack, making it harder for your patio doors to open and close.





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

Lubricate the moving parts

uPVC french doors, similar to sliding patio doors, work using 3 to 4 or sometimes five-point locking mechanisms, which include the handle and lock cylinder operated by the key. They require maintenance and lubrication of 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 hinges that are sagging aren't the cause, the door could be misaligned and catching or striking the strike plate hole in the frame. The solution is to remove the strike plate and then use a sharp chisel to enlarge the mortise it sits in. This will permit the latch to fit into the hole and also prevent it from scratching against the frame.

While patio door repair is out of the way and out of the way, measure its width using a book or piece of wood that fits into 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 cylinder.

Verify the lock's width

If your patio door latch is difficult to turn even after cleaning and lubricating, there's a possibility that it is out of alignment with the strike plate hole. Verify that the door is properly balanced and that the hinge screws are secure. In most instances, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards will fix the problem.

The latch may not be able to engage properly in the event that the strike of the lock is not large enough. In this situation, you'll need to enlarge the opening using the hammer or chisel and then test the latch to ensure that it contacts the strike plate in a smooth manner without rubbing against or catching on the door's frame jamb.

You must identify the kind of mortise lock you currently have before buying the replacement. You can do this by looking at the faceplate of the lock and determining whether it is square or round. Then, take a look at the screw holes on the current lock and note the dimensions of each one. This will assist you in finding an alternative lock that is of the same size and will fit perfectly into the hole you have already.

You'll want to identify the mortise lock and inspect it for any scratches, bends, or other damage that requires to be repaired. A badly bent or damaged latch is more likely than one that's been used a lot to break. Replace the lock if you notice signs of damage.

Once you've checked the lock and decided on the type of replacement you'll need now is the time to start working on the actual repair. The old handle and spindle should be removed from the doorway to the patio. Install the new handle. Start by putting in the interior handle, aligning it with the spindle, and then securing it in place with the two screws or bolts that hold it. Once the handle's interior is installed, you can install the handle on the outside and screw it into place as well. After you've completed the steps you can test the new handles to ensure that they open and close easily and that the latch catches properly with the strike plate.

Check the Door's Strike

The door latch and strike plate are the two components of the lock that work together to ensure that the latch locks the door. If these parts aren't aligned correctly and the latch doesn't latch the door properly. This issue is usually easy to solve.

First, inspect the strike plate's receiving holes to make sure they are free of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Release the screws that hold the strike plate in position. This will allow it to move vertically but it will not be able to separate from the frame. Adjust the strike plate so that it aligns its receiving holes with the latch hooks of the door latch. Once the strike plate is adjusted tighten the screws, and then test the door to see whether it locks smoothly after the new adjustment.

Door strike plates can be a bit difficult to locate for homeowners with sliding patio doors, however they are essential for locking and unlocking your door. These plates are usually located at the top and bottom of the door jamb where they support the door's latch. Then, the door latch is able to slide into the strike plate to create an airtight seal when closed. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or is not installed correctly the latch may not be able to lock the door properly.

One of the most common reasons for a patio door lock to become stuck or not close is a misalignment of the latch and strike plate. The easiest way to check for this is to perform the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick on the outside of the deadbolt, and then put masking tape on it. The lipstick will leave a mark when you close the door. This will reveal exactly where the latch connects to the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low you can easily adjust the strike plate.

Sliding patio door locks help keep your home safe from burglars. If they're not functioning properly, you need to solve the issue fast. By following these easy steps, you can fix the lock on your patio door and restore its functionality within a short time.