Patio Doors Locks Replacement
Patio door locks can be helpful to protect your home. By increasing security, they can also help you reduce the cost of home insurance.
You can replace an old or damaged lock using the use of a few tools. Begin by cleaning and lubricating the lock. Then, select a replacement lock with the proper screw hole size.
Safety Precautions
It's a great idea to replace your sliding patio door lock with a brand new one in the event that you have an older one. This will help keep your patio safe from burglars by ensuring that only you and your family members are allowed access. A good lock is a deterrent to criminals, but you can further enhance your home security by installing a surveillance system. It will alert you when someone is trying to gain entry into your home and allow you to be aware or alert the authorities.
Patio doors are usually located in low visibility areas. This makes them a perfect target for burglars looking to look over the contents of your house without anyone else being aware. To get around the spring-loaded locks found on patio doors, burglars simply place their hands on the glass and move it up and down in a quick motion until the lock is disengaged. To stop this from happening, you can install security bars that are placed on the track and remains in place when you slide your door shut. There are also other products like the security pin that works by drilling a hole in the frame of the sliding door and matching it with a hole that is drilled into the stationary door, thus preventing the doors from being separated.
It's not just about picking the best lock. It's also about choosing the lock that's compatible with your house type and will meet your needs. There are numerous innovative patio door locks that will work with your uPVC or French doors however, the most important thing is to select one that matches the handles you have already installed and matches the aesthetics of your home.
After you've chosen the perfect lock, it's important to keep your new lock in good condition and ensure it works properly. Regular cleaning and lubrication can aid in keeping your patio door securely locked and stop it from jamming or sliding. Use dry rags to remove any dust or debris and then lubricate the lock using graphite or silicone. Avoid using oil based oils, as they may draw dirt.
Check the current lock
The first step to take before purchasing a replacement lock is to measure accurately your current one. This will help you avoid purchasing a replacement of the wrong size. It will also ensure that your new lock fits perfectly into the hole that is already. To determine the length and diameter of the cylinder, make use of a tape measure and write down the measurements in millimetres. Make sure to remove the casing and any decorative elements surrounding the cylinder from the measurements. If you try to guess or estimate the dimensions, it could result in mistakes that could compromise the security and function of your new lock.
There are three types of patio door locks that provide different levels of security. A basic key-operated lock is a cheaper option but does not offer much protection from intruders. A central rail lock that's key operated offers more security than a basic lock. It also qualifies you for discounts on your home insurance. replace upvc door lock mechanism -point locking device that's fitted to the central rail, where the doors meet, offers even more security than a standard key operated lock and is usually police approved.
A mortise lock is a different option. It is the most expensive, however, it provides top-quality, reliable security. It is usually installed in the center of the door so that it cannot be slid open like the sliding windows.
If your patio doors already have holes pre-drilled for a deadbolt, you'll need to redrill and make the hole bigger. This can be a challenge but it's crucial to do it right so that the lock doesn't harm the door frame.
Before drilling into the door frame, make sure you read the instructions included with the replacement lock. You will receive a step-by-step guide for the correct installation. It will also provide instructions on how to adjust the lock to ensure a tighter fit and how to secure it correctly. It will also explain how to test the locks to ensure you are certain that they work as intended. This will help to eliminate any problems before they become serious. If you're unable to fix the problem, it is recommended to contact an expert.
Clean the Lock
One of the most common issues that homeowners have to face is a door lock that doesn't work correctly. Patio doors that refuses to lock can be frustrating and pose a security risk. It's a good idea to know that these issues are usually easily fixed by troubleshooting.
Remove the locking handle from the door to the patio. Before doing this put down a protective covering like an old towel or tarp to collect any dirt or cleaning products that may fall in the process. This will make cleanup easier and protect the surface of the patio door from scratches.
Then, wash the lock mechanism with warm soapy water. This is a challenging process if you have an old lock. You'll need to take special care not to damage the delicate surface. A toothbrush can be handy to reach the small spaces and a wire brush could be required to remove any stubborn dirt or debris.
Once the lock is clean It's time to grease the moving parts. This will help reduce stiffness and help the keyhole and latch work smoothly. Choose a silicone-based product specifically made for door locks.
Some patio door locks consist of a series of pin tumblers which are able to move up and down. This can cause them to be stuck by dust or other contaminates. This problem can be resolved by inserting a pencil, or a small amount lubricating spray in the lock.
Be aware that locks for outdoor doors could be damaged by corrosion or rust. Lubricating the moving parts of your lock can improve their performance over time and prevent costly repairs or replacement. The type of environment and climate in your area will determine the frequency at which you should lubricate your locks. In coastal areas, there is more salt in the air which can cause rust and other damage.
Lubricate the moving parts
Lubricating your sliding patio door locks frequently is the best way to ensure they function properly. This helps prevent the build-up of dust and debris which can cause locks to fail. It is also recommended to clean the handle and locks regularly using a cleaning solution to get rid of any dirt or grime that could be accumulating in the mechanism.
It isn't easy to grease your locks because not all lubricants function the same way. Use silicone spray lubricant, or a similar product, to apply the lubricant on the lock mechanism. It is essential to choose an item that does not attract dust or dirt which could cause the lubricant to wear away quickly, making the lock less able to operate.
Dry graphite powder lubricant is another great option for lubricating your patio door locks. It's simple to apply and can help to prevent corrosion. You can purchase dry graphite from the internet or at many hardware stores. It is also available in aerosol form, which makes it much easier to apply. The lubricant's solvent quickly evaporates, leaving a dry layer of graphite which provides lubrication without attracting dust or other chemicals.
If you're looking for an alternative that lasts longer, it is recommended that Teflon oil is a great choice. This type of lubricant provides durability against corrosion and won't attract dust or dirt making it more durable than other lubricants. You might also consider a deicer lubricant, specially designed to stand up to frigid temperatures and avoid freezing.
It's important to test your locks after lubricating them. This will confirm that they're functioning properly. Try closing and opening the door several times and be aware of any resistance or sticking. If you encounter any problems it's important to fix the issue before they become worse.
If you are replacing a mortise lock, ensure that the spindle and handle are in line with the door's model and make. You'll also have to be careful about the position of the keyway inside the mortise latch. Some are vertical while others are inclined at 45 degrees, so you'll need to pick the correct one for your sliding patio door.