Sliding Patio Door Lock Repair
A secure lock is vital to ensuring the safety and security of your patio door. The good news is that a lot of lock problems can be addressed by preventive maintenance and simple tools.
A latch that is hard to lock could simply require lubrication. To avoid damaging sensitive components, it is important to choose the correct kind of lubricant.
Air leaks and drafts
Over time, a sliding patio door can be subject to normal wear and tear that affects its functionality. Fortunately, a few easy-to-do maintenance tasks can resolve a number of common issues.
Drafts and air leaks around the door frame can cause discomfort in your home, as well as higher energy bills. Air leaks can often be caused by old weather stripping that has worn out or improper door alignment. Replacing the weather stripping and making sure that the door is correctly aligned will resolve these issues, improving the efficiency of your home's energy use.
A track that is stuck on the door may make it difficult to open and close the door. In most cases, this issue is solved by applying lubrication to the tracks and rollers using a silicone-based fluid. It's also a good idea to clean the track on a regular basis to ensure it is free of debris and dirt that can cause friction.
In the final instance, if you notice carpets or rugs with a damp appearance near the sliding patio door This could mean that there is a leak in the water. Water can get into the frame of the door through gaps or cracks caused by an improper installation. These issues can be addressed by replacing gaskets that are defective or seals, and installing an threshold seal or door sweep. In severe instances, it could be required to replace your door.
Glasses that have cracked or shattering aren't just a nuisance. They can also be an hazard to safety and decrease the insulation capacity of the door. Replacing broken glass is a complex task that should be handled by an expert. Contact an expert in your area if you are experiencing any of these problems with your sliding patio doors. You can then enjoy your sliding patio doors with peace of mind. The longer you delay to tackle these issues, the more extensive and costly the damage could be. Sliding patio doors are stylish and a functional addition to your home, but they need regular maintenance to ensure they function smoothly for years to come.
Worn Handle
The hardware for sliding patio doors can be neglected and deteriorated by dust and foot traffic. While some issues can be fixed with DIY solutions some require expert attention to repair or replace. With a little care and attention homeowners can keep their sliding patio doors in good condition for a long time.
Although most sliding patio door locks employ an latch mechanism that is similar to the standard pin tumbler variety found in regular doors, some are different and may have their own unique mechanisms. Glass sliding door latches may jam or snag when foreign objects are stuck between the handle and lock spindle. This type of issue is usually solved by applying lubrication or a pencil to get rid of any debris that has accumulated.
Another common sliding patio door malfunction is the handle becoming difficult to open or loose. This problem usually results from the screws that keep the handle in place coming loose or working their way out completely. The handles can be adjusted by the novice DIYer with the screwdriver that is a basic tool.
A sliding patio door that does not shut properly can cause a lot of inconvenience and, in some instances, can even lead to damage to your home or energy leaks. Tracks for sliding patio doors are usually built to run across the floor. This track can be worn out by dirt, sand, or grit. If this is not addressed, the wear can cause the sliding panel to misalign with the jamb, or lose contact with the track entirely. Sliding patio door jambs and tracks should be cleaned regularly to avoid the accumulation of dirt that could damage or block the movement of the track.
Door runners that slide are also benefited by regular oiling to prevent stiffness and jamming. They are exposed to dust and dirt which can build up in the runners. They must be cleaned and greased as required. It is essential that your sliding doors function properly for your family's comfort.
Faulty weatherstripping
The weatherstripping around the sliding patio door play an important function in keeping unwanted light, air, pests and moisture out. Repair My Windows And Doors is possible to replace your weatherstripping if it is cracked, brittle or hard or does not form an adequate seal. Close the door and observe whether light gets through. A dollar bill can be placed under the weatherstripping for testing. Pull it either way. If the dollar bill easily slides under, it's time to replace the weatherstripping.
Cleaning the mechanism of the lock is essential to ensure its smooth operation and security. Regularly remove and clean the handle, keyway and latch with a home cleaning product. It's also recommended to grease the locks' mechanisms using a silicone-based lubricant to keep them in a smooth state and functioning effectively.
The replacement of the locking mechanism is a relatively easy do-it-yourself project and can be accomplished with the right tools and skills. Knowing the particulars of your current lock, including its name and position of the keyway, is vital to deciding and installing the appropriate replacement. Photograph the lock using your digital camera to relay the details to the supplier of the lock. This will ensure you receive the right type of lock for your patio door.
To replace the lock, unwind the lock that was previously used and then remove the screws that secure it. Then loosen screws that hold the lock strike to the jamb. Move the strike upwards and downwards until the lock latch lines up with it. If the latch on the door does not latch when you close it, the lock might not be aligned correctly with the strike.
Take note of the locations of the mounting holes, direction of swing of the hasp and the size of the strike to help you select the right replacement lock. If you're not sure what to do, call a professional for help or contact your local home improvement store for help. They'll usually guide you to the correct type of replacement lock for your patio door, and also show how to install it.
Broken Lock
A broken lock on your sliding patio door could be a major security problem. It's impossible to keep your home safe when the door doesn't shut and lock properly. A professional locksmith will inspect the lock and fix or replace it if necessary.
In some instances, dirt or debris can block the locking mechanism. Lubricate your lock to help remove any dirt or debris that has impeded the mechanism. This should be done on regularly basis to stop dirt from causing issues with your lock. Typically, this involves using graphite pen to push up and down on the latch of the lock to clear any obstructions. Some people also employ oil-based lubricants, like WD-40, to grease their locks. This should be avoided since the residue from the liquid will attract dust and other debris, which can block your lock.
A mortise lock is the most popular type of lock on sliding patio doors. These locks have keyways cut into the door frame and accept a rectangular-shaped key. A locksmith can identify if the lock you have is standard or has a distinctive design that requires a different type of key. They can also assist you in finding the right replacement.
It's important that you find an appropriate lock that matches your existing lock's dimensions and design when replacing the mortise on a sliding patio door. Most doors feature the name of the manufacturer or name of the door into the corner. This can be useful when communicating with hardware stores and locksmiths about fitting parts. You can also take a picture of your existing lock with digital cameras to capture more detailed information regarding its size and shape.
There are also surface-mount lock options available for patio doors that do not have a mortise lock cutout. These locks are mounted on the frame of the door using an adapter and use the rectangular lock key. Typically, these locks are sold in sets that include an E2105 mortise lock, an escutcheon or housing with a recess plate and a separate hasp. These locks have similar jamming issues to sliding door pin tumbler locks, but they can be repaired just the latch by inserting a graphite pen or lubricant to dislodge any blockages.