Sliding Patio Door Lock Repair
A safe lock will ensure the security and safety of your patio door. The good news is that a lot of lock issues can be fixed with preventive maintenance and the most basic tools.
For example, a latch that is difficult to lock might simply need lubrication. To avoid damaging sensitive components, it is important to choose the correct kind of lubricant.
Drafts and air leaks
Over time, a sliding patio door may be subject to normal wear and tear that can affect its performance. Fortunately, a few simple maintenance tasks can solve a variety of common problems.
A common issue is drafts and air leaks around the door frame, which can lead to discomfort in your home, as well as higher energy costs. Air leaks are often caused by weather stripping that is worn out or a door that isn't properly aligned. Replacing the weather stripping, and ensuring that the door is properly aligned can solve these issues, thereby increasing the efficiency of your home's energy usage.
A sticky track on the door may make it difficult to open or close the door. This can often be resolved by lubricating both the tracks and rollers with a silicone-based grease. It's also a good idea to clean the track on a regular basis to keep it free of dirt and debris which can cause friction.
Lastly, if you notice damp carpets or rugs near the sliding patio doors, this could indicate that there is a water leak. Rugs and carpets that are damp could be caused by a range of things, including improper installation that causes cracks or gaps in the door's frame which allows water to enter. The problem can be solved by replacing faulty gaskets or seals, and then installing a threshold seal or door sweep. In severe circumstances, it may be necessary to replace your door.
Lastly, cracked or shattered Repair My Windows And Doors isn't just an eyesore -- it can cause injury to people and affect the door's insulating capabilities. Replacing damaged or broken glass is a complicated job that should only be done by a professional. If you're having any of these issues with your sliding patio door contact a local contractor for repairs or replacements. In this way you'll be able to enjoy your sliding patio door with peace of mind. The longer you wait to tackle these issues, the more costly and long-lasting the damage will be. Patio doors that slide open are stylish and a practical addition to your home, but they require routine maintenance to operate smoothly for the long haul.
Worn Handle
The sliding patio door hardware can be neglected and worn out by foot traffic and dust. While some problems are easily fixed with DIY solutions while others require professional assistance to repair or replace. With a little care and attention homeowners can keep their sliding patio doors in great working order for many years.
While 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 can be stuck or snag if foreign objects are stuck between the handle and lock spindle. This type of issue is usually solved by lubricating or using a pencil to eliminate any debris that has built up.
The handle itself may malfunction, causing it to be difficult to open or to loosen. The reason for this is usually the screws that keep the handle in place coming loose or working their way out completely. The handles can be tightened by the novice DIYer with an ordinary screwdriver.
A sliding door that does not shut properly can cause major issue and in certain instances could result in energy leaks or damage to your home. Sliding patio doors are typically constructed with a bottom track that runs along the floor, and the track may suffer wear from dirt, sand or grit. If left unchecked, this wear could cause the sliding panel to be misaligned with the jamb or lose contact with the track altogether. Cleaning the sliding patio door tracks and jambs frequently will stop accumulation of dirt that can damage the track or stop it from moving.
Door runners that slide can are also benefited by regular oiling to prevent stiffness and jamming. They are exposed to constant flow of dirt and dust that could work their way into the runners and should be cleaned and lubricated as needed. Keeping your home's sliding doors working properly is essential for the safety of your family and yourself So, be sure to fix any issues as soon as you notice them.
Poor weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is an important part of a sliding patio door that helps keep out unwanted moisture, light and air. You may have to replace your weatherstripping when it's damaged, cracked, brittle or hard or has stopped forming a tight seal. A simple test is to close the door and check whether light shines through. A dollar bill can be put under the weatherstripping for testing. Pull it either way. If the dollar bill slides easily under the weatherstripping, it's time to replace the weatherstripping.
It is important to keep the lock mechanism clean to maintain its smooth operation and safety. Take the handle, keyway, and latch, and scrub them with a household cleaner. You can also lubricate the lock mechanisms with the lubricant based on silicone. This will ensure they continue functioning smoothly.
With the right tools and information, replacing the locking mechanism can be a simple do-it yourself project. Understanding the specifics of your lock, including its name and location of the keyway is essential to accurately choosing and installing the appropriate replacement. Take a picture of the lock using your digital camera and send the information to the locksmith. This will ensure that you receive the right type of lock for your patio door.
To replace the lock, remove it and remove any screws that hold it in place. Then loosen the screws that secure the strike of the lock to the jamb. Move the strike up or down until it's positioned in a place where the latch of the lock will be aligned with it when the door is shut. If the latch on the door isn't latching when you close it, the lock might not be aligned correctly with the strike.
Take note of the locations of the mounting holes and the direction of the hasp's swing and size of the strike to help you choose the best replacement lock. If you're not sure how to proceed, ask an expert or visit your local home improvement shop to help. They can help you choose the right replacement lock for your patio, and also show you how to install it.
Broken Lock
A broken lock on your patio door could be a serious security issue. If your door does not close and lock properly, it is impossible to keep the home secure. A professional locksmith will inspect the lock and fix or replace it if necessary.
In some instances the locking mechanism may become obstructed by dirt or debris. If this is the case, you can lubricate the lock to help dislodge whatever is preventing it. This should be done on regular basis to prevent dirt from causing issues with your lock. Typically, this involves using a graphite pen to push up and down on the latch of the lock to remove any blockages. Some people also employ oil-based lubricants like WD-40, to lubricate their locks. This should be avoided as the residue from the liquid will attract dust and other debris, clogging your lock.
A mortise lock is the most popular type of lock for sliding patio doors. These locks feature keys that are that is cut into the frame and accept a rectangular-shaped key. A locksmith can help determine if your lock is standard or has a unique design that may require an alternative type of key. They can also help you locate a replacement.
If you're replacing mortise locks on your patio door sliding it is crucial to find one that is compatible with the current lock size and design. A lot of doors have the name of the manufacturer or the name of the door on the corner. This can be useful when communicating with locksmiths and hardware stores regarding the exact parts. You could also take a photograph of the lock you have currently using a digital camera to capture more specific information about its size and shape.
Surface-mount locks are also available for patio doors which do not have mortise cutouts. These locks are affixed to the frame of the door using an adapter, and utilize keys that are rectangular in shape. Typically, these locks are sold in assemblies consisting of an E2105 mortise latch, an escutcheon or housing with a recess plate and a separate hasp. They can jam same as sliding door pin tumblers but you can repair the latch by putting in graphite or lubricant.