Don't Buy Into These "Trends" About Patio Doors Locks Replacement
Patio Doors Locks Replacement
Locks for patio doors can help to secure your home. By enhancing security, they can also help you save money on home insurance.
You can replace an old or malfunctioning lock with the use of a few tools. Begin by cleaning and lubricating the lock you have. Select a lock replacement that has the proper screw hole size.
Safety Precautions
It's a good idea to replace the lock on your sliding patio door with a new lock if you have an old one. This will keep your patio safe from burglars by ensuring that only you and your family members are allowed access. A good lock is a deterrent for criminals however, you can increase the security of your home by installing a surveillance system. This will notify you when someone tries to enter your home so that you can take precautions or alert authorities.
Patio doors are situated in low-visibility areas and are therefore a target for burglars who want to evaluate the contents of your home without or passersby noticing them. To circumvent the spring-loaded locks that are found on patio doors, burglars simply place their hands on the glass and move up and down in a jerky motion until the lock stops. To stop this you can install a security bar that is placed on the track and stays in place when you slide your door shut. Other products, such as the security pin works by drilling a small hole into the frame of the sliding doors and matching it to a smaller hole drilled in the stationary door. This prevents the doors from being separated.
It's not just about choosing the best lock. It's also about choosing the lock that's compatible with your house type and is able to meet your requirements. There are many creative patio door locks that will be suitable for 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 style of your home.
After you've picked the ideal lock, you must keep your new lock in good condition and ensure it operates properly. Regular cleaning and lubrication will aid in keeping your patio door securely locked and prevent it from jamming or sliding. Use a dry rag to get rid of any debris or dust and then lubricate the lock using graphite or silicone. Avoid using lubricants based on oil as they draw dirt and grime.
Check the current lock
The first step to take before you purchase a new lock is to measure accurately your current lock. This will help you avoid buying a replacement lock that is the incorrect size. This will ensure that the new lock fits perfectly into the existing hole. Use a tape measure to determine the length and diameter of the cylinder. Remember to exclude any decorative elements or the casing's outer layer from your 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 major types of patio door locks, each with different levels of security. A simple key-operated lock is the cheapest option, but it doesn't offer much protection from intruders. A central rail key-operated lock provides more security than a standard lock and can be eligible for a reduction on your insurance for your home. A multi-point locking system that's fitted to the central rail, where the doors meet, offers greater security than a traditional key operated lock and is usually police-approved.
Another option is a mortise lock which is the most expensive, yet is reliable and high-quality security. This type of lock is typically placed in the middle of the door so it cannot be slid open like the sliding windows.
If your patio doors are fitted with holes for a deadbolt it is necessary to redrill the hole and make it larger. It's not an easy task however it's crucial to do it correctly so that the lock does not damage the frame of the door.
Read the directions that came with the replacement lock before drilling into the door frame. You will receive a step-by-step guide to the proper installation. It will also explain the proper way to adjust the lock to make it more secure and fit better. It will also explain how to test the locks to ensure you are certain that they work exactly as they were intended to. This will help eliminate any issues that may arise before they become more serious. If you're unable to fix an issue with the lock, you should to seek professional assistance.
Clean the Lock
A door lock that's not functioning correctly is one of the most frequent issues homeowners encounter. Patio doors that won't lock can be a pain and a security risk. It's a good idea to know that these issues are often easily fixed by troubleshooting.
Remove the locking handle on the door for patio use. Before you do this put down a protective cover such as an old towel or tarp to collect any dirt or cleaning solutions that fall in the process. This will make cleaning much easier and also protect the patio door surface from scratches.
Then clean the lock mechanism with warm soapy water. If you have an antique lock, this could be a tricky process as you'll require special care to avoid damaging the delicate surface. A toothbrush could come in handy to access small spaces and a wire brush could be required to remove any stubborn dirt or debris.
After the lock is clean It's time to grease the moving parts. This will help to prevent stiffness, and the keyhole and latch will operate smoothly. Select a silicone-based product that is specifically designed for door locks.
Some patio door locks are composed of a series pin tumblers which are able to move up and down. This could cause them to get blocked by dust or other pollutants. You can often resolve this problem by inserting a graphite pencil or small amount of lubricating spray into the lock to loosen up any components that are stuck.
It's also important to remember that locks for outdoor doors are exposed to the elements and could be subject to rust, corrosion or other damages. Lubricating the moving parts of your lock can improve their performance over time and help to avoid costly repairs or replacement. The nature of the climate and the environment in your area will influence the frequency you have to lubricate your locks. The coastal areas, for instance are likely to have more salt in the air, which can cause corrosion and damage.
Lubricate the moving parts
Lubricating your sliding patio door locks regularly is the best way to ensure they function properly. This helps prevent the build-up of dust and debris that can cause failure of the lock. It is also recommended to clean your handles and locks regularly using a cleaning product to remove any dirt that may be stuck in the mechanism.
It isn't easy to ensure that your locks are lubricated, as not all lubricants work in the same way. Make use of silicone spray lubricant or a similar one, to apply the lubricant on the lock mechanism. It's important to use a product that will not attract dust or dirt which could cause the lubricant to wear away quickly, making the lock more difficult to operate.
Another option for lubricating your patio door locks is to use dry graphite powder. It is simple to use and prevents corrosion. You can buy dry graphite grease online or at most hardware stores. It's also available in aerosol form, which makes it easier to apply to the lock mechanism. The solvent in the lubricant dries fast, leaving behind an unburnt layer of graphite that offers lubrication and doesn't attract dust and chemicals.
If eastbourne double glazed door lock replacement are looking for an option that is more durable then a Teflon fluid is a good option. This type of lubricant can provide long-lasting protection from corrosion and does not attract dirt or dust. It is therefore more durable than other kinds of lubricants. It is also possible to use the deicer lubricant, which is specially designed to resist cold temperatures and stop the formation of ice.
It is crucial to test your locks after lubricating them. This will confirm that they're functioning properly. Open and close the door repeatedly, paying close attention to any resistance. If you experience any issues, it's important to address them immediately before they get any worse.
If you're replacing a mortise lock, ensure that the spindle and handle match the door's model and the make. You'll also need to be careful about the position of the keyway inside the mortise latch. You'll need to select the right one for your sliding patio doors. Some are vertical, while some are at 45 degrees.