Patio Doors Locks Replacement
Locks for your patio doors are crucial to help protect your home. By increasing security, they can also help you reduce the cost of home insurance.
With just a few tools, you can replace locks that are old or broken. Begin by cleaning and lubricating the existing lock. Select a lock replacement that has the proper screw hole size.
Safety Precautions
When you have an outdoor sliding door, it's best to replace the old lock with a new lock. This will ensure that only you and members of your family have access to your patio, and keep it secure from burglars. Installing a security system will not only make your home more secure but will also deter criminals. This will notify you when someone is trying to enter your home, allowing you to be aware or alert the authorities.
Patio doors are usually located in low visibility areas. This makes them a perfect opportunity for burglars to look over the contents of your home without anyone else being aware. In order to bypass the locks that are spring loaded for patio doors the burglars put their hands on glass and move them up and down in an jerky motion. To prevent this you can install a security bar that is placed on the track and stays in place when you slide your door closed. There are also other products such as the security pin, which is made by drilling a hole into the frame of the sliding door, and then matching it with a hole drilled into the stationary door, preventing the two 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 requirements and is compatible with the style of your home. There are many patio door locks that will fit your uPVC and French doors. The most important thing is to choose one that is compatible with your existing handles, and complements the style of your home.
After you've picked the ideal lock, it's important to keep your new lock in good condition and ensure it works properly. Regular cleaning and lubrication could aid in keeping your patio door securely locked and prevent it jamming or sliding. Use a dry rag to get rid of any debris or dust and then lubricate the lock with graphite or silicone. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as they can attract dirt.
Check the current lock
Before you purchase a new lock, make sure you precisely measure the lock you currently have. This will help you avoid purchasing a replacement lock that isn't the right size. This will ensure that the new lock will fit perfectly to the hole you have already. Use a tape measure to measure the length and the diameter of your cylinder. Make sure to exclude decorative elements or the casing's outer layer from your measurements. Making assumptions or guessing at these dimensions can result in inaccurate measurements that could compromise the security and function of your new lock.
There are three kinds of patio door locks that offer different levels of security. The basic key-operated locking system is the most affordable option, however it does not offer the same level of protection against burglars. A central rail key-operated lock is more secure than the basic lock and can sometimes allow you to get a reduction on your insurance for your home. A multi-point lock connected to the central rail, where the doors overlap and are more secure than the standard key operated locks and is usually endorsed by the police.
Another alternative is a mortise lock, which is the most expensive, but provides high-quality, reliable security. It is typically installed in the middle of the door to keep it from sliding like windows that slide.
If your patio doors have holes pre-drilled for a deadbolt you will have to drill a new hole and make the hole bigger. It's not an easy task, but it is important to do it right so that the lock will not damage the frame of the door.
Check the instructions that came with the lock replacement before drilling into the door frame. This will provide you with the step-by-step instructions for proper installation. It will also show you how to adjust the lock for an ideal fit and how to secure it correctly. It will also show you how to test the locks to ensure that you are sure they work according to their intended. This will help you eliminate any issues before they become serious. If you're not able to fix the problem, it is recommended to contact an expert.
Clean the Lock
A door lock that isn't functioning properly is among the most common issues that homeowners face. Patio doors that won't lock can be frustrating and pose a security risk. The good news is that it's usually simple to fix these issues with just a some troubleshooting and maintenance.
Remove the locking handle on the patio door. Before doing this put down a protective covering like an old towel or tarp to catch any dirt or cleaning solutions that may fall during the process. This will help with cleaning and protect the surface of your patio door from scratches.
Next, clean the lock mechanism by using warm soapy water. If you have an antique lock, this can be a difficult task as you'll require special care to avoid damaging the delicate surface. door lock repairs can be handy to get into the tight spaces, and a wire brush could be required to remove any debris or dirt that has remained.
After the lock has been cleaned and dry, it's time for lubrication of the moving parts. This will help to prevent stiffness, and ensure that the latch and keyhole will work smoothly. Select a lubricant made of silicone specifically designed for use on door locks.
Certain patio door locks feature pin tumblers which move upwards and downwards, so they can become jammed with dust or other contaminants. This issue can be solved by inserting a pencil or small amount lubricating spray in the lock.
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 will enhance their performance over time and 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 atmosphere which can cause rust and other damage.
Lubricate the moving parts
The best method to keep your sliding patio door locks operating correctly is to grease them regularly. This will prevent the accumulation of dirt and dust which can cause locks to fail. It is also recommended to clean your locks and handles regularly with a cleaning product to remove any dirt that might be stuck within the mechanism.
Lubricating your locks can be tricky since not all lubricants are equal. You should choose to use silicone spray lubricant or another similar product that can be applied to the lock mechanism. It is essential to choose a product that will not attract dust or dirt which could cause the lubricant's surface to wear off quickly, making the lock harder to operate.
Another option for lubricating your patio door locks is to use dry graphite powder. It's easy to apply and will help in preventing corrosion. You can purchase dry graphite online or at most hardware stores. It is also available in aerosol form, which makes it much easier to apply. The lubricant's solvent quickly evaporates, leaving behind a dry layer of graphite which provides lubrication without attracting dust or chemical.
If you're looking for a more permanent solution for your needs, a Teflon lubricant is a good option. This type of lubricant provides durability and protection against corrosion. It also does not attract dust or dirt. It is therefore more durable than other kinds of lubricants. You can also use deicer lubricant which is specifically designed to withstand cold temperatures and stop ice from forming.
After you've lubricated your locks, you must check them to ensure they're functioning properly. Close and open the door repeatedly, paying attention to any resistance. If you experience any issues it's important to fix them right away before they get any worse.
If you're replacing a mortise lock, ensure that the handle and spindle match the door's model and manufacturer. You'll also need to be aware of the location of the keyway inside the mortise latch. Some are vertical and others are bent at 45 degrees and you'll have to choose the right one for your sliding patio door.