Patio Doors Locks Replacement It's Not As Hard As You Think
lock replacement upvc door for patio doors are essential to protect your home. They also can save you money on your home insurance by increasing security.
With just a few tools, you can replace locks that are old or damaged. Start by cleaning and lubricating the lock you have. Then, select a replacement lock with the proper screw hole size.
Safety Precautions
It's a good idea to replace your sliding patio door lock with a brand new one if you have an old one. This will help keep your patio secure from burglars by making sure that only you and your family members have access. A good lock is a deterrent to criminals, but you can further enhance your home security by installing a security system. It will notify you when someone tries to break into your home, allowing you to be aware or alert the authorities.
Patio doors are situated in areas that are not visible which makes them a prime target for burglars who want to look over the contents of your home without you or passersby noticing them. To bypass the spring-loaded locks found on patio doors, burglars simply place their hands on the glass and move them up and down in a quick motion until the lock stops. To prevent this you can put in a security bar that is fixed to the track and stays in position when you slide your door closed. Other products, such as the security pin works by drilling a small hole into the frame of the sliding doors, and then matching it to a smaller hole drilled in the stationary door. This prevents the doors from being separated.
The choice of the right patio door lock isn't just about choosing the right lock, but it's about choosing the right lock for your needs and is compatible with your home type. There are numerous innovative patio door locks that will work with your uPVC or French doors however, the most important thing is to choose one that is compatible with your existing handles and fits the aesthetics of your home.
Once you've selected the perfect lock, it's crucial to keep your new lock in good condition and ensure it functions correctly. Regular cleaning and lubrication could aid in keeping your patio door secure and stop it from jamming or sagging. Use a dry cloth remove any debris or dust from the lock, and then apply silicone spray or graphite to give it lubrication. Avoid using oil-based lubricants as they draw dirt and grime.
Measure the existing lock
Before ordering the replacement lock, make sure you take a precise measurement of the lock you currently have. 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 hole that is already. To measure the length and diameter of the cylinder, use a tape measure and note down the measurements in millimetres. Be sure to exclude any decorative elements or the outer casing from your measurements. If you try to guess or estimate the dimensions, it could lead to errors that could affect the security and performance of your new lock.
There are three main types of patio door locks each offering different levels of security. The basic key-operated locking system is the least expensive option, however it doesn't offer the same level of protection against burglars. A central rail lock that is key-operated offers greater security than a basic lock. It also qualifies you for discounts on your home insurance. A multi-point lock that is fitted to the central rail, where the doors overlap, offers more security than the standard key operated locks and is frequently endorsed by the police.
A mortise lock is another option. It is the most expensive but it offers high-quality and reliable security. It is typically placed in the middle of the door to stop it from sliding as windows that slide.
If your patio doors already have holes that are pre-drilled for a deadbolt, you'll have to drill a new hole and make the hole wider. It can be difficult to do, but it's important to do this correctly to ensure that the lock does not damage the door frame.
Consult the instructions that came with the lock replacement before drilling into the door frame. The instructions include a step-bystep guide for the correct installation. It will also explain the correct way to adjust the lock to make it fit better and secure it. In addition, it will provide instructions on how to test the lock so that you can be sure that it works as intended. This will help you eliminate any issues before they become serious. If you are unable to resolve the problem, it is best to call a professional.
Clean the Lock
One of the most common issues that homeowners have to confront is a lock that isn't functioning properly. Patio doors that won't lock can be frustrating and pose a security risk. It's good to know that these problems can be easily solved by troubleshooting.
Start by removing the lock handle from the patio door. Before you do this make sure to lay down a cover like an old towel or tarp to catch any dirt or cleaning products that fall in the process. This will make cleaning much easier and will protect the patio door surface from scratches.
Then, wash the lock mechanism with warm soapy water. This is a challenging process if you've got an old lock. You'll need to take special care not to damage the delicate surface. A toothbrush could come in handy to reach the tight spaces and a wire brush might be necessary for removing any debris or dirt that has remained.
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. Select a lubricant made of silicone specifically designed for use on door locks.
Some patio door locks are made up of a series of pin tumblers which move upwards and downwards. This can cause them to become jammed by dust or other contaminants. This problem can be resolved by inserting a pencil, or a small amount lubricating spray in the lock.
Keep in mind that door locks outside can be damaged by rust or corrosion. Regularly lubricating the moving parts of your lock will make them more efficient over time, and reduce the need for expensive repairs or replacement. The kind of climate and environment in your area will determine the frequency at which you should lubricate your locks. The coastal areas, for instance are likely to have more salt in the air that can cause corrosion and damage.
Lubricate the Moving Parts
The best way to ensure that your sliding patio door locks working properly is to lubricate them regularly. This prevents the buildup of dust and debris which could cause failure of the lock. Also, you should clean the handle and locks regularly with a cleaning solution to get rid of any dirt or grime that could be trapped within the mechanism.
Lubricating your locks can be difficult, as not all lubricants are created equal. Make use of silicone spray lubricant or a similar product, to apply the lubricant on the lock mechanism. Use a lubricant that won't attract dust or dirt. This will prevent the lubricant from fading quickly and making the lock more difficult to operate.
Dry graphite powder is a good option for lubricating your patio door locks. It is easy to use and prevents corrosion. You can purchase dry graphite lubricant at most hardware stores, or on the internet. It is also available in aerosol form to make it simpler to apply. The solvent in the lubricant dry quickly, leaving a layer of dry graphite that provides lubrication and doesn't attract dust and chemicals.
If you're looking for an alternative that lasts longer, you should consider a Teflon fluid is a good choice. This type of lubricant offers durability against corrosion and does not attract dirt or dust and is therefore more durable than other oils. You can also try a de-icer lubricant, specially designed to stand up to cold temperatures and prevent freezing.
After you've lubricated your locks, it's crucial to test them to make sure they're operating correctly. Try opening and closing the door several times, paying attention to any resistance or sticking. If you experience any issues it's important to fix them immediately before they become worse.
If you are replacing mortise locks, be sure that the handle and spindle match your door's model and make. You'll also have to be cautious about the placement of the keyway in the mortise latch. You'll have to choose the correct one for your sliding patio doors. Some are vertical, while others are at a 45-degree angle.