Patio Door Lock Repairs

Over time, patio doors go through wear and tear which can lead to locks that fail. There are a few easy steps you can follow to restore the security of your uPVC door.

If it's resetting the lock or cleaning the mechanism for locking these simple fixes will help you make your home more secure.

Clean the Lock

While patio doors are a great option to let in the outside and keep out the elements, they can also be security risks if your lock isn't working as it should. Over time, wear, tear, hot and cold weather dirt and debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. Fortunately, with a little care you can ensure that your patio door's locks will always function properly.

To begin with, it's essential to clean the lock of your patio door and all its moving parts. This helps to flush out any accumulated grime and coatings that may hinder the lock from functioning as it should. Start by wiping down all the moving parts of your patio door's lock using a damp cloth. then make use of a scouring pad, or a rough damp cloth to scrub any difficult-to-access parts of the door and frame that are covered in dirt. Then, wipe the lock down with a dry towel to get rid of any remaining moisture. Let it air dry before you use it.

If your patio door has pin-tumbler locks You can lubricate it by applying powdered Graphite on the key. You can also use a Teflon oil like WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant can be easy to apply and doesn't break down as time passes. If you are unable to find the right lubricant for your lock, you can apply a pencil that has a larger tip. Place the pencil into the lock, then shake it to distribute the graphite.

Tracks for sliding patio doors repairs patio doors require regular maintenance to ensure that they're free of dust, dirt and other debris. They are particularly susceptible to snow, ice, and other debris that can cause them block or become stuck. This can make it difficult for your patio door to be opened and closed.

The sliding rails of the patio door track and rollers can be cleaned by removing weather stripping that is damaged or dirty and then cleaning it, before replacing it. The same can be done for patio door rollers, 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, like sliding patios, operate using 3 to 4, or sometimes 5 points locking mechanisms. This includes the lock cylinder and handle that is operated by keys. They also require maintenance, specifically lubrication on the moving parts. This can be done using a thin oil (never WD40) and should be done every year.

If sagging hinges don't cause the issue, it could be that the door is not aligned. It could be rubbing against or catching the strike plate's opening in the frame. The solution is to remove the strike plate and then use a sharp chisel to enlarge the mortise that it rests in. This allows the latch to sit properly in the hole and avoids scratching or catching on the frame.

While the cylinder is out of the way take a measurement of its width using a book or piece of wood that can fit into the adjustment screw gap above the lock. The outer dimension is the distance from the outside of the door to the middle of the cylinder, while the inner dimension runs from the center of the adjustment screw until the end of the cylinder.

Check the width of the lock.

If your patio door latch isn't able to turn even after cleaning and lubricating, it's possible that it's not in alignment with the strike plate hole. Check if your door is in a balanced position, and that the hinge screws are in good condition. In many cases, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards can solve the issue.

Oftentimes, the problem occurs when the lock's strike is too small for the latch to properly engage. In this case, enlarge the opening using the hammer and chisel. Then, test the latch so that it doesn't rub against the jamb frame of the door or get caught the frame.

You should identify the type mortise lock you have before buying a replacement. This can be done by looking at the faceplate and noting whether it is round or square. Then, look at the screw holes on the current lock and note the dimensions of each. This will help you find a replacement that is of the same size and is a perfect fit for your existing hole.

You'll need to locate the mortise lock, and then examine it for scratches, bends, or other damage that needs to be repaired. A badly bent or damaged latch is more likely than one that has been used a lot to break. Replace the lock if you notice evidence of damage.

After you've determined the type of lock replacement you need Now it's time to start the actual repair. The spindle and handle must be removed from the patio door. Introduce the new handle. Begin by installing the interior handle. Align it with the spindle and then secure it into place using the two screws or bolts. Once the handle in the interior is installed, put in the exterior handle and screw it into the position as well. Once you have completed these steps Test the handles to make sure they are able to open and close easily and that the latch works correctly with the strikeplate.

Check the Strike of the Door.

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

First, inspect the strike plate's receiving holes to ensure they are free of obstructions such as dirt or plastic plugs. Loosen the keeper screws holding the strike plate in position. This will allow it to move horizontally, but not separate it from the frame. Then, you can adjust the strike plate to ensure that its holes for receiving align with the latch hooks on the door latch. After the strike plate is adjusted tighten all screws and check if the door closes smoothly.

These plates are difficult to reach for homeowners with sliding patio doors. However, they are essential to secure and unlock your door. These plates are usually located on the top and bottom of the door jamb which is where they are used to support the door's latch. The door latch slides onto the strike plate and forms the seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or not installed correctly, it can stop the latch from locking the door securely.

One of the most common reasons for an outdoor door lock to stick or not close is a misalignment of the latch and strike plate. The most effective way to test for this is to perform the "lipstick test." Apply some lipstick on the outside of the deadbolt and attach masking tape over it. When you close the door, the lipstick will leave an impression on the tape that will show exactly where the latch contacts the strike plate. If the mark is too high or low, you can easily alter the strike plate.

If your sliding patio door locks aren't working correctly they can help keep your home secure from intruders. You need to repair the issue as soon as possible. Follow these steps to fix your patio door lock and restore it's functionality.