Patio Doors Locks Replacement
Patio door locks can help to protect your home. They can also help save money on insurance for your home by increasing security.
With just a few tools, you can change a lock that is old or damaged. Start by cleaning and lubricating your existing lock. Then, select a replacement lock with the correct screw hole size.
Safety Precautions
When you have an outdoor sliding door, it's a good idea replace the lock you have with a new lock. This will help keep your patio secure from burglars, by ensuring that only you and your family members are allowed access. Installing a security system will not only ensure your home is more secure, but it will also discourage criminals. The system will notify you when someone tries to gain entry to your home. You can then take steps to protect yourself or notify authorities.
Patio doors are often located in low visibility areas. This makes them an ideal target for burglars looking to look over the contents of your home without being aware. To bypass the spring-loaded patio door locks, burglars place their hands on the glass and move them upwards and downwards in a jerky motion. To stop this from happening you can put in a security bar that is fixed to the track and remains in place when you open your door closed. Other products, like the security pin works by drilling a small hole through the frame of the sliding doors and matching it to a smaller hole in the stationary door. This stops the doors from being separated.
Choosing the right patio door lock isn't just about selecting the right lock; it's about selecting a lock that is safe, meets your needs and is compatible with your home type. There are a variety of patio door locks that will fit your uPVC and French doors. The key is to choose one that blends with your existing handles, and is in keeping with the design of your home.
After you have chosen the ideal lock for your patio door, it's crucial to maintain it and make sure it functions properly. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help keep your patio door locked securely and stop it from sagging or jamming. Use a dry cloth to remove any debris or dust from the lock and use silicone spray or graphite to apply lubrication. Avoid using lubricants based on oil as they can draw dirt and grime.
Check the Existing Lock
The first thing you should do before ordering a replacement lock is to measure precisely the current lock. This will ensure that you don't end up buying a replacement lock that is the wrong size. It will also ensure that your new lock fits perfectly into the existing hole. Use a tape measure to take measurements of the length and diameter of your cylinder. Make sure to exclude decorative elements and the outer casing from your measurements. If you try to guess or estimate these dimensions, it can cause errors that could compromise the security and functionality your new lock.
There are three major types of patio door locks, each offering different levels of security. A basic key-operated lock is the most affordable option, but it doesn't offer much protection from intruders. A central rail lock that is operated by keys is more secure than the standard lock and can be eligible for a discount on your home insurance. A multi-point lock that is connected to the central rail in which the doors overlap, offers more security than standard key operated locks and is usually endorsed by the police.
A mortise lock is a different option. It is the most expensive but it offers high-quality, reliable security. It is usually installed in the middle of the door to prevent it from being slid like the sliding glass window.
If your patio doors have holes that are pre-drilled for a deadbolt you will need to redrill and make the hole larger. This can be challenging however, it's essential to do it correctly so the lock doesn't damage the frame of the door.
Before drilling into your door frame, always consult the instructions that come with the replacement lock. You will receive a step-bystep guide to installing the lock correctly. It will also outline the correct way to adjust the lock to make it fit better and secure it. It will also provide instructions on how to test the locks to ensure you are sure they work exactly as they were intended to. This will eliminate any problems that might arise before they become more serious. If you're unable to resolve an issue with the lock, it's recommended to contact a professional for assistance.
Clean the Lock
One of the most frequent problems that homeowners face is a door lock that isn't working properly. Patio doors that won't lock can be a pain and pose a security risk. It's important to know that such issues are often easily fixed by troubleshooting.
Remove the locking handle on the door to the patio. To protect your patio door from dust or cleaning products that could fall, you should put down a cover such as an old towel or tarp. This will make cleaning easier and protect the patio door surface from scratches.
Then, wash the lock mechanism using warm soapy water. This isn't an easy process if you've got an old lock. You'll require special care to not damage the delicate surface. A toothbrush can come in handy to access small spaces, and a wire brush may be needed to get rid of any debris or dirt that has remained.
After the lock has been cleaned, it's time to lubricate the moving parts. This will prevent stiffness and will allow the latch and keyhole to function smoothly. Choose a silicone-based product that is specifically designed for door locks.
Certain patio door locks come with a series of pin tumblers which move upwards and downwards, which means they can become jammed with dust or other contaminants. It is often possible to solve this issue by inserting a graphite pencil or a small amount of lubricant spray into the lock to open the components that are stuck.
It is also important to keep in mind that outdoor door locks are exposed to the elements and may be prone to rust, corrosion or other damage. Lubricating the moving parts of your lock can improve their performance over time and help to avoid costly repairs or replacement. How often you need to lubricate locks is contingent on the environment and climate of your area. Coastal areas, for example are more likely to have more salt in the air, which can cause corrosion and damage.
Lubricate the moving parts
Lubricating your sliding patio door locks regularly is the best method to ensure they function correctly. This prevents the build-up of dust and debris that could cause failure of the lock. You should also clean your locks and handles regularly using a cleaning product to remove any dirt that might be stuck in the mechanism.
It can be difficult to ensure that your locks are lubricated, as not all lubricants work in the same way. Use silicone spray lubricant or a similar product to apply the lubricant on the lock mechanism. Choose a lubricant which doesn't draw dirt or dust. This will prevent the lubricant from wearing off quickly and making the lock harder to operate.
Another option to lubricate your patio door locks is dry graphite powder. It's easy to apply and helps to prevent corrosion. You can purchase dry graphite oil at many hardware stores, or on the internet. It's also available in aerosol form to make it easier to apply. The lubricant's solvent dries fast, leaving behind an unburnt layer of graphite that offers lubrication and doesn't attract dust and chemicals.
If you want an option that is more durable then you should consider a Teflon lubricant is a good option. This type of lubricant offers durability and protection against corrosion. It also does not attract dirt or dust. It is therefore more durable than other kinds of lubricants. You can also try a de-icer lubricant, which is specially made to withstand frigid temperatures and avoid freezing.
Once you've lubricated your locks, it's crucial to test them to ensure they're operating correctly. Try opening and closing the door several times and be aware of any resistance or sticking. It is crucial to take care of any issues as quickly as you can before they become worse.
If replacement upvc door lock repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk replacing a mortise latch ensure that the new handle and spindle are compatible with your door's model and make. The position of the mortise lock's keyway is crucial. Some are vertical while others are inclined at 45 degrees, so you'll need to select the right one for your sliding patio door.