Patio Doors Locks Replacement: 11 Things That You're Failing To Do
Patio Doors Locks Replacement
Patio door locks are important to help protect your home. By increasing security, they can also help you reduce the cost of home insurance.
You can replace an old or broken lock using some basic tools. Begin by lubricating and cleaning the existing lock. Choose a lock replacement with the correct screw 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 have access. A good lock is a deterrent for criminals, but you can further enhance your home security by installing a surveillance system. The system will notify you when someone tries to break in to your home. You can then take appropriate steps or alert the authorities.
Patio doors are usually located in low visibility areas. This makes them a perfect target for burglars who want to assess the contents of your house without you or passersby being aware. To get around the spring-loaded locks found on patio doors, burglars simply put their hands on the glass and move them up and down in a jerky motion until the lock disengages. Install a security lock on the track and it will stay in place as you shut your door. Other products, like the security pin, work 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 only about picking the best lock, but it's about choosing a lock that is safe, meets your needs and is compatible with your home type. There are many creative patio door locks that will work with your uPVC or French doors however the key is to choose one that blends in with 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 functions correctly. Regular cleaning and lubrication can help to keep your patio door tightly locked and prevent it from jamming or sliding. Use a dry cloth wipe away any dust or debris from the lock, and then apply silicone spray or graphite to give it lubrication. Avoid using oil-based lubricants as they attract dirt and grime.
Check the Existing Lock
The first step to take before you purchase a new lock is to accurately measure your current one. This will ensure that you don't end up purchasing a replacement of the wrong size. front door locks replacement dunstable Repair My Windows And Doors will also ensure that your new lock fits well into the hole you have already. To measure the length and diameter of your cylinder make use of a tape measure and note down the measurements in millimetres. Make sure to exclude the casing and any decorative elements surrounding the cylinder from the 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 types of patio door locks that provide different levels of protection. A basic key-operated lock is the cheapest option but does not offer any protection against intruders. A central rail lock that's key operated offers more security than a basic lock. It can also qualify you for discounts on your home insurance. A multi-point locking system that's fitted to the central rail, where the doors meet, offers greater security than a standard key operated lock and is often police-approved.
Another alternative is a mortise lock which is the most expensive but is reliable and high-quality security. It is usually installed in the middle of the door to keep it from being slid like windows that slide.
If your patio doors already have holes pre-drilled for a deadbolt you will have to drill a new hole and make the hole bigger. This can be a challenge, but it's important to do it correctly so the lock won't cause damage to the door frame.
Check the instructions included with the new lock prior to drilling into the door frame. This will provide you with a step-by-step guide for proper installation. It will also explain how to adjust the lock to an ideal fit and how to secure it correctly. In addition, it will explain how to test the lock to ensure you can be certain 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 issue, it's recommended to contact a professional.
Clean the Lock
One of the most common issues that homeowners have to confront is a lock that isn't working properly. Doors that don't lock can be frustrating and pose a security risk. It's important to know that these problems are often easily fixed by troubleshooting.
Take off the lock handle on the door to the patio. Before you do this make sure to lay down a protective cover such as an old towel or tarp to catch any dirt or cleaning products that may fall in the process. This will make cleaning easier and will protect the door's surface from scratches.
Then, wash the lock mechanism using warm soapy water. If you have an antique lock, this can be a tricky process as you'll require special care to avoid damaging the delicate surface. A toothbrush can come in handy to access narrow spaces and a wire brush may be needed to get rid of any debris or dirt that has remained.
After cleaning the lock, it is time to lubricate all the moving parts. This will reduce stiffness, and ensure that the keyhole and latch will function smoothly. Select a lubricant made of silicone that is specifically designed to be used on door locks.
Certain patio door locks consist of a series pin tumblers which move upwards and downwards. This could cause them to get stuck by dust or other contaminates. This issue can be solved by inserting a pencil or a small amount of lubricant spray inside the lock.
Remember that outdoor door locks can be damaged by corrosion or rust. Lubricating the moving parts of your lock will improve their performance over time and help prevent costly repairs or replacement. The kind of climate and environment in your area will determine the frequency you have to lubricate your locks. The coastal areas, for instance are more likely to have more salt in the air, which can cause corrosion and damage.
Lubricate the moving parts
The best way to ensure that your sliding patio door locks functioning properly is to lubricate them regularly. This will prevent the accumulation of dust and other debris that can cause failure of the lock. Also, you should clean your locks and handles frequently using a product for cleaning to remove any dirt that could be stuck within the mechanism.
It can be difficult to grease your locks since not all lubricants perform the same way. It is recommended to use a silicone spray lubricant or a similar product that can be applied to the lock mechanism. It's important to use the right product that doesn't attract dust or dirt, as this can cause the lubricant to wear away quickly and make the lock less able to operate.
Dry graphite powder is a good option for lubricating your patio door locks. It is easy to use and will help prevent corrosion. You can buy dry graphite lubricant at most hardware stores, or on the internet. It is also available in aerosol form, which makes it easier to apply it to the lock mechanism. The lubricant's solvent quickly dries, leaving behind an evaporation layer of graphite that helps to lubricate without attracting dust or other chemicals.
If you're seeking a long-lasting solution, consider the Teflon-based lubricant. This type of lubricant can provide long-lasting protection against corrosion and does not attract dirt or dust. It is therefore more durable than other kinds of lubricants. It is also possible to use a deicer lubricant that is specially designed to resist cold temperatures and prevent ice from forming.
After you've lubricated the locks, you must test them to make sure they're operating correctly. Close and open the door repeatedly, paying attention to any resistance. If you encounter any problems it's crucial to address them right away before they get any worse.
If you're replacing a mortise latch ensure that the new spindle and handle are compatible with the door's make and model. You'll also need to be cautious about the placement of the keyway in the mortise latch. You'll need to pick the appropriate one for your sliding patio doors. Some are horizontal, while others are at a 45-degree angle.