Patio Doors Locks Replacement
Patio door locks can help to secure your home. They can also help save money on insurance for your home by increasing security.
With just a few tools, you can replace a lock that is old or damaged. Begin by cleaning and lubricating the existing lock. Select a lock replacement that has the correct screw size.
Safety Precautions
It's a good idea to replace the lock on your sliding patio door with a brand new lock if you have an old one. This will help keep your patio safe from burglars by ensuring that only you and your family members are allowed access. Installing a surveillance system will not only ensure your home is more secure but will also stop criminals from entering your home. It will notify you when someone attempts to break into your home and allow you to be aware or alert the authorities.
Patio doors are situated in areas that are not visible and are therefore a target for burglars who want to evaluate the contents of your home without you or other people noticing them. To circumvent the spring-loaded locks that are found on patio doors, burglars simply put their hands on the glass and move them up and down in a quick motion until the lock disengages. To stop this you can put in a security bar that is fixed to the track and remains in place when you open your door shut. There are other options 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 into the stationary door, which prevents the doors from being separated.
It's not only about choosing the right lock. It's also about picking locks that are compatible with the style of your home and is able to meet your requirements. There are a variety of lock options for patio doors that can be fitted to your uPVC and French doors. The key is to choose one that is compatible with the handles you have already installed, and matches the aesthetics of your home.
After you have picked the right lock for your patio door, it's essential to keep it in good condition and ensure that it works properly. Regular cleaning and lubrication will keep your patio door secured securely and stop it from jamming or sagging. Use a dry cloth remove any dust or debris from the lock and apply silicone spray or graphite to give it lubrication. Avoid using oil based greases, as they could draw dirt.
Check the Existing Lock
The first thing to do before purchasing a replacement lock is to accurately measure your current one. This will help you avoid buying a replacement lock that is the wrong size. It will also ensure that your new lock is a good fit in the hole you have already. To determine the length and diameter of your cylinder, employ a tape measure, and write down the measurements in millimetres. Be sure to exclude any decorative elements and the outer casing from your measurements. If you make assumptions or guess these dimensions, it can result in mistakes that could compromise the security and functionality your new lock.
There are three types of patio door locks that offer different levels of security. The basic key-operated locking system is the least expensive option, however it doesn't provide the same protection against burglars. A central rail key-operated lock provides more security than a basic lock and can sometimes qualify you for a discount on your home insurance. A multi-point lock connected to the central rail in which the doors overlap, offers more security than the standard key operated locks and is often approved by the police.
A mortise lock is an alternative option. It is the most expensive option, but it offers high-quality secure security. It is typically installed in the middle of the door to keep it from sliding like windows that slide.
If your patio doors already have holes pre-drilled to accommodate a deadbolt, you'll have to drill a new hole and make the hole bigger. It's not an easy task, but it is important to do it correctly to ensure that the lock does not damage the door frame.
Check the instructions that came with the new lock prior to drilling into the door frame. This will give you an easy-to-follow guide to installation. It will also explain the correct way to adjust the lock to make it more secure and fit better. Additionally, it will describe how to test the lock to ensure that you are sure that it is working as you intended. This will help to eliminate any problems before they become serious. If you're unable to fix the problem, it is best to call an expert.
Clean the Lock
A door lock that's not functioning properly is among the most frequent issues homeowners confront. Whether it's a key that doesn't turn or a latch that doesn't engage, or a handle that won't lift patio doors that don't lock can be extremely frustrating and can be a security risk. It's important to know that such issues are often easily fixed by troubleshooting.
Start by removing the locking handle from the patio door. Before doing this, however, lay down a cover like an old towel or tarp to catch any dirt or cleaning solutions that fall in the process. This will make cleaning easier and also protect the surface of the patio door from scratches.
Then clean the lock mechanism by using warm soapy water. If you have an old lock, this could be a tricky process as you'll need to take special care to avoid damaging the delicate surface. A toothbrush could come in handy to reach the small spaces and a wire toothbrush may be needed to get rid of any debris or dirt that has remained.
After the lock is clean, it's time to lubricate the moving parts. This will prevent stiffness, and the keyhole and latch will function smoothly. Choose a silicone-based lubricant that is designed for use on door locks.
Certain patio door locks feature a series of pin tumblers which move up and down, so they could 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.
It is also important to keep in mind that outdoor door locks are exposed to the elements and can be prone to corrosion, rust or other damages. Lubricating regularly the moving parts of your lock will help them perform better over time, and reduce the necessity for costly repairs or replacement. The type of environment and climate in your area will influence the frequency at which you should lubricate your locks. The coastal areas, for instance, tend to have more salt in the air that can cause corrosion and other damages.
Lubricate replacement door lock moving parts
Lubricating your sliding patio door locks regularly is the best way to ensure that they function correctly. This prevents the build-up of dust and debris which could cause failure of the lock. You should also clean the handles and locks regularly using a cleaning solution to get rid of any dirt or grime that may be trapped in the mechanism.
Lubricating your locks can be a challenge since not all lubricants are created to be the same. Make use of silicone spray lubricant or a similar one, to apply the lubricant on the lock mechanism. Use a lubricant that won't draw dirt or dust. This will prevent the lubricant from wearing off quickly, making the lock less able to operate.
Another option for lubricating your patio door locks is to use dry graphite powder. It's simple to apply and helps to prevent corrosion. You can buy dry graphite oil at many hardware stores, or on the internet. It's also available in aerosol form, which makes it much easier to apply. The solvent in the lubricant dries fast, leaving behind a layer of dry graphite that provides lubrication and does not attract dust or other chemicals.
If you're seeking a long-lasting solution, you can try a Teflon-based lubricant. This type of lubricant can provide long-lasting protection from corrosion and will not attract dirt or dust. It is therefore more durable than other kinds of lubricants. It is also possible to use deicer lubricant which is specifically designed to withstand cold temperatures and prevent ice from forming.
It is crucial to test your locks after lubricating them. This will confirm that they're working properly. Try opening and closing the door several times and paying attention to any resistance or sticking. It is crucial to fix any issues as soon as you can before they become worse.
If you're replacing mortise locks, be sure that the spindle and handle match your door's model and the make. The position of the mortise lock's keyway is also crucial. Some are vertical and others are inclined at 45 degrees and so you'll need to pick the correct one for your sliding patio door.