Patio Doors Locks Replacement
Locks for your patio doors are crucial to protect your home. By increasing security, they can also help you save money on home insurance.
With a few simple tools, you can easily replace the lock that is worn out or broken. Start by cleaning and lubricating the existing lock. Choose a lock replacement with the correct screw size.
patio door lock replacement
When you have a sliding patio door, it's a good idea replace the lock you have with a brand new one. This will ensure that only you and the members of your family are allowed access to your patio, and keep it secure from burglars. Installing a security system will not only make your home more secure however, it will also stop criminals from entering your home. It will notify you when someone is trying to break into your home and allow you to be aware or alert the authorities.
The doors of patios are typically situated in areas with low visibility. This makes them an ideal target for burglars who want to assess the contents of your home without being aware. To bypass the patio door locks with springs they place their hands on glass and move them up and down in a jerky motion. To stop this from happening, you can install a security bar that is placed on the track and remains in position when you slide your door closed. Other products, such as the security pin are made by drilling a small hole into the frame of the sliding doors and comparing it to a smaller hole in the stationary door. This prevents the doors from being separated.
It's not only about choosing the best lock. It's also about picking the lock that's suitable for your home's style and will meet your needs. There are a variety of patio door locks that will fit your uPVC and French doors. The key is to select one that is compatible with the handles you have already installed, and is in keeping with the design of your home.
After you've chosen the perfect lock, you must keep your new lock in good condition and make sure that it works properly. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help keep your patio door locked tightly and prevent it from becoming jammed or sagging. Use a dry rag to remove any dust or debris and then lubricate your lock with graphite or silicone. Avoid using oil based lubricants, as they can draw dirt.
Measure the Existing Lock
The first step to take before ordering a replacement lock is to measure precisely the current lock. This will prevent you from purchasing a replacement of the wrong size. This will also ensure that your new lock is a good fit in the existing hole. Make use of a tape measure to measure the length and the diameter of the cylinder. Remember to exclude any decorative elements or the casing's outer layer from your measurements. If you guess or estimate the dimensions, it could result in mistakes that could compromise the security and function of your new lock.
There are three main types of patio door locks each with different levels of security. A basic key-operated lock is a cheaper option but does not offer any protection against intruders. A central rail lock that is operated by keys is more secure than the basic lock and may allow you to get a reduction on your insurance for your home. A multi-point locking system installed on the central rail where doors overlap offers greater security than a traditional key operated lock, and is typically police approved.
A mortise lock is an alternative option. It is the most expensive however it provides high-quality, reliable security. This type of lock is typically placed in the middle of the door so that it can't be opened as the sliding windows.
If your existing patio doors have holes that are pre-drilled to accommodate a deadbolt then you'll need to re-drill the hole and make it larger. This can be challenging, but it's important to do it correctly so the lock doesn't harm the frame of the door.
Consult the instructions included with the replacement lock before drilling into the door frame. This will provide you with a step-by-step guide for proper installation. It will also show you how to adjust the lock for an ideal fit and how to secure it correctly. In addition, it will describe how to test the lock to ensure you can be certain that it is working as you intended. This will help you eliminate any issues before they become serious. If you're unable to fix the issue, it's recommended to contact an expert.
Clean the Lock
One of the most common problems 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 a good idea to know that these problems can be easily solved by troubleshooting.
Begin by removing the locking handle from the patio door. Before doing this, however, lay down a protective cover such as a tarp or old towel to collect any cleaning solutions or dirt that may fall during the process. This will make cleaning easier and protect the door's surface from scratches.
Then, wash the lock mechanism with warm soapy water. If you own an antique lock, this could be a tricky process as you'll need to take extra care to avoid damaging the delicate surface. A toothbrush can help you reach into tight spaces. A wire brush may be required to clean any dirt or debris that is difficult to remove.
After cleaning the lock, it's time to grease all the moving parts. This will reduce stiffness, and ensure that the keyhole and latch will function smoothly. Choose a product made of silicone that is specifically designed for door locks.
Some patio door locks are made up of a series pin tumblers which move up and down. This can cause them to be blocked by dust or other contaminants. This issue can be solved by inserting a pencil or a small amount of lubricant spray inside the lock.
Keep in mind that door locks outside can be damaged by rust or corrosion. Periodically lubricating the moving parts of your lock can make them more efficient over time and prevent the need for costly repairs or replacement. How often you should lubricate locks is contingent on the environment and climate in your area. In coastal areas, there is more salt in the atmosphere, which can cause rusting and other damage.
Lubricate the Moving Parts
Lubricating your sliding patio door locks frequently is the best way to ensure they function correctly. This helps prevent the build-up of dust and debris that could cause lock failure. Also, you should clean the handle and locks regularly with a cleaner to remove any dirt or grime that may be stuck in the mechanism.
Lubricating your locks can be a challenge, as not all lubricants are created equal. Use silicone spray lubricant, or a similar product, to apply the lubricant to the lock mechanism. Use a lubricant that won't attract dust or dirt. This will stop the lubricant's wear off quickly and making the lock harder to operate.
Another option to lubricate your patio door locks is to use dry graphite powder. It's simple to apply and can help to prevent corrosion. You can buy dry graphite grease from the internet or at many hardware stores. You can also find it in aerosol form, making it easier to apply to the lock mechanism. The solvent in the lubricant is fast drying, leaving behind an unburnt layer of graphite, which provides lubrication. It does not attract dust or other chemicals.
If you're looking for a longer-lasting solution, you can try the Teflon-based lubricant. This type of lubricant offers long-lasting protection against corrosion and does not attract dust or dirt. It is therefore more durable than other kinds of lubricants. You can also apply the deicer lubricant, which is specifically designed to withstand cold temperatures and prevent ice from forming.
Once you've lubricated your locks, it's important to test them to make sure they're operating correctly. Try closing and opening the door several times and pay attention to any resistance or sticking. If you experience any issues it's important to fix them right away before they become worse.
If you're replacing a mortise hinge ensure that the new handle and spindle are compatible with the door's model and brand. You'll also have to be aware of the location of the keyway inside the mortise latch. You'll need to select the appropriate one for your sliding patio doors. Some are vertical, while some are at 45-degree angles.