Patio Doors Locks Replacement
Locks for patio doors are essential to protect your home. By increasing security, they can also help you save money on insurance for your home.
You can change an old or damaged lock using the use of a few tools. Begin by cleaning and lubricating your lock you have. Select a lock replacement that has the correct screw size.
Safety Precautions
It's a good idea to replace your sliding patio door lock with a brand new one even if you already have an old one. This will ensure that only you and the members of your family have access to your patio, keeping it secure from burglars. Installing a surveillance system will not only ensure your home is more secure but will also deter criminals. It will notify you when someone attempts to enter your home and allow you to take precautions or alert authorities.
Patio doors are in low-visibility areas and are therefore a target for burglars who wish to look over the contents of your home without you or other people noticing them. To get around the spring-loaded locks on patio doors, burglars put their hands on the glass and move them up and down in a jerky motion until the lock stops. To prevent this, you can install a security bar that is mounted on the track and stays in place when you slide your door shut. Other products, like the security pin works by drilling a small hole into the frame of the sliding doors and comparing it to a smaller hole drilled in the stationary door. This stops the two doors being separated.
Selecting the right patio door lock isn't just about selecting the right lock. It's about picking the right lock for your needs and is compatible with the style of your home. There are a variety of patio door locks that will fit your uPVC and French doors. The most important thing is to select one that matches the handles you have already installed, and is in keeping with the design of your home.
After you have picked the perfect lock for your patio door, it's essential to keep it in good condition and make sure it functions correctly. Regular cleaning and lubrication could help keep your patio door secure and stop it from jamming or sagging. Use a dry rag to get rid of any dust or debris and then lubricate the lock using graphite or silicone. Avoid using oil-based lubricants as they trap dirt and grime.
Take a look at the lock you have.
Before you purchase the replacement lock, it is important to precisely measure the lock you currently have. This will help you avoid buying a replacement lock that isn't the right size. This will also ensure that your new lock fits well into the hole that is already. Make use of a tape measure to take measurements of the length and diameter of the cylinder. Be sure to exclude the casing and any decorative elements surrounding the cylinder from the measurements. If you make assumptions or guess these dimensions, it can cause errors that could compromise the security and function of your new lock.
There are three kinds of patio door locks that provide different levels of protection. A basic key-operated lock is a cheaper option, but it doesn't offer any protection against intruders. A central rail lock that is operated by keys offers more security than the standard lock and can be eligible for discounts on your home insurance. A multi-point locking system that's installed on the central rail, where the doors meet, can provide even more security than a standard key operated lock, and is typically police approved.
A mortise lock is another option. It is the most expensive option, however, it provides top-quality secure security. It is usually installed in the center of the door so that it can't be opened as a sliding window.
If your patio doors already have holes already drilled for a deadbolt you will need to redrill and make the hole wider. It's not easy, but it is important to do this correctly so that the lock does not damage the frame of the door.
Before drilling into the door frame, you must read the instructions that came with the lock replacement. The instructions include a step-bystep guide to installing the lock correctly. It will also provide instructions on how to adjust the lock to better fit and how to secure it correctly. It will also explain how to test the locks so that you are certain that they work as intended. This will allow you to identify any issues before they become serious. If you're not able to fix an issue with the lock, it's recommended to seek out a professional's assistance.
Clean the Lock
One of the most common issues that homeowners have to confront is a lock that isn't working properly. Patio doors that won't lock can be a hassle and a security risk. The good part is that it's easy to fix the problem with a bit of troubleshooting and maintenance.
Remove the locking handle on the patio door. Before doing this, however, lay down a protective cover such as a tarp or old towel to catch any cleaning solutions or dirt that fall during the process. This will help with cleaning and will protect the surface of your patio door from scratches.
Then clean the lock mechanism with warm soapy water. If you have an old lock, this could be a challenging task because you'll need to take special care to avoid damaging the delicate surface. A toothbrush can come in handy to access small spaces and a wire toothbrush might be necessary for removing any dirt or debris that is difficult to remove.
After cleaning the lock, it's time to lubricate all the moving parts. This will reduce stiffness, and ensure that the keyhole and latch will operate smoothly. Choose a silicone-based product specifically designed for door locks.
Certain patio door locks come with pin tumblers that rotate upwards and downwards, so they could become jammed by dust or other contaminant. This issue can be solved by inserting a pencil or small amount of lubricant spray into the lock.
Remember that outdoor door locks could be damaged by corrosion or rust. Lubricating the moving parts of your lock will enhance their performance over time and help prevent costly repairs or replacement. The kind of climate and environment in your area will determine the frequency you have to lubricate your locks. In coastal areas, there is more salt in the air which can cause rust and other damages.
Lubricate the moving parts
The best way to keep your sliding patio door locks functioning correctly is to grease them regularly. This prevents the buildup of dust and debris that can lead to locks failing. It is also recommended to clean your locks and handles regularly using a cleaning product to get rid of any dirt that may be stuck in the mechanism.
Lubricating your locks can be difficult because not all lubricants are created equal. It is recommended to use a silicone spray lubricant, or a similar product that can be applied to the lock mechanism. Make sure to choose a lubricant that doesn't attract dust or dirt. This will stop the lubricant from wearing off quickly and making the lock less able to operate.
Another option to lubricate your patio door locks is to use dry graphite powder. Repair My Windows And Doors is easy to use and will help prevent corrosion. You can purchase dry graphite online or at most hardware stores. It is also available in aerosol form, which makes it easier to apply it to the lock mechanism. The solvent in the lubricant quickly dries, leaving behind an unburnt layer of graphite which is able to provide lubrication without attracting dust or chemical.
If you want an option that is more durable for your needs, you should consider a Teflon lubricant is a good choice. This type of lubricant provides long-lasting protection against corrosion. It also does not attract dirt or dust and is therefore more durable than other lubricants. You can also use the deicer lubricant, which is specially designed to resist cold temperatures and stop ice from forming.
It's important to test your locks after lubricating them. This will confirm that they're working properly. Open and close the door repeatedly, paying close attention to any resistance. It's important that you fix any issues as soon as you can before they get worse.
If you're replacing a mortise latch be sure that the new spindle and handle are compatible with your door's model and make. Also, you must be aware of the location of the keyway in the mortise latch. Some are horizontal while others are inclined at 45 degrees and you'll have to pick the correct one for your sliding patio door.