Replacement Patio Door Handle
Handles for patio doors are a critical component of security for your home. It's important that you address any issues with your patio lock as fast as you can in order to ensure your home is secure.
To begin to begin, you need to identify the lock on your patio door that you have already installed. This will allow you to determine the kind of lock replacement you should order.
Identification
The lock that you have on your patio door plays a key part in the operation and security of your home. As time passes, it may be damaged or worn out and require replacement. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as an unfastened latch or handle, or a failure to turn the handle spindle in a proper manner. The majority of homeowners can repair their patio door lock on their own.
Start by identifying the type of lock you own. You can identify the type of lock you have by examining how the small lever of the actuator on the handle is connected to the latch hasp, or by examining it directly. This is crucial because the type of lock that you require will depend on the style of your patio doors and the specific issue with the lock.
Aluminum patio doors are usually equipped with mortise locks which feature an opening that is rectangular. They can also be found on vinyl and wood patio doors. These locks are typically positioned in a recess in the frame of the patio door, and are fitted with rectangular screw holes. You can also take a picture with a digital camera, and send it to the manufacturer. This is a great method to ensure that your new patio door lock will work well with your existing lock.
Top and bottom tab designs of locks are commonly found on patio doors that are older. These locks are more secure than sliding bolt locks as they enclose the door frame to stop the door from being raised or forced. Sliding bolt-style locks are usually more frequent on newer patio doors, as they use a metal slide bolt that retracts into a strike plate for additional strength and security.
You can add a second lock to your patio door to improve security. Simply replace the knob that is in place with one that is compatible with a keyed locking system. This is a great way to keep your pets, family members and other belongings secure and stop intruders from accessing your patio doors, particularly when you live in an area with high crime rates.
Cleaning
If a patio door lock is working correctly, it holds the door securely against unwanted intruders and weather elements. Outdoor door locks, as all hardware, require periodic oiling and cleaning to prevent them from becoming stiff and unable to work effectively. The good news is that cleaning is easy, simple, and affordable and can be completed by any homeowner.
A door that is squeaky is typically caused by dust and dirt accumulation within the mechanism. Baking soda and vinegar are a quick solution that can be used to break up grime, making it easier to clean the door with a toothbrush or sponge. It's a good idea, during this cleaning process to make use of a compressed air bottle to blast away any stubborn dirt.
To prevent squeaks after cleaning, a thin layer of lubricant should be applied to the keyhole, latch and other moving parts. Make sure to not apply too much of the lubricant, since too much can trap dirt and interfere with functionality.
After lubrication is complete, the lock should be tested to confirm that it is functioning properly. If the lock still squeaks it could be due to a small misalignment between the frame and hinges. If this is the situation it is crucial to correct the problem before it gets worse by altering the lock points and the door to align with the frame.
It can be a major issue when your uPVC handle doesn't move, especially if it leaves you vulnerable to intruders or the elements. This problem could be caused by a range of causes that range from minor changes in the weather, to a lack of maintenance on movable parts. If the issue is dealt with promptly the door can be restored to its original functionality. The best way to safeguard your home is to take care of your uPVC doors and locks through proper cleaning and care.
Lubricants
Rust, dust or debris can cause problems with the locking mechanisms of your patio door. They can be difficult to open and latch. In these instances, lubrication will be required to solve the problem. You should clean your lock mechanisms before applying lubricant. The lubricant that you use should not have an oily base as they draw dust particles and could cause further problems for your patio door. Dry lubricants can be found in hardware stores and these are perfect for lubricating the lock mechanism.
Generally speaking, the best lock lubricant is powdered graphite. Locksmiths have used it to lubricate metal components for years because it does not attract dust, as opposed to liquid fluids. repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk has a waxy consistency and stays inside the lock to provide long-lasting lubrication. Graphite can be safely used and applied again to ensure that the lock is running smoothly.
If you are looking to lubricate your lock, you should first clean it with a penetrating cleaner like WD-40. After cleaning, you can apply a dry lubricant to the cylinder, keyhole and the lock mechanism. This will help the lock function smoothly and prevent it from becoming stuck or jamming.
In most hardware stores, you will get a good silicone spray from various brands. This type of lubricant is the best and is available in different sizes. It will also protect your lock from rust. People used to use WD-40 or other oils on things with small moving parts before dry lubricants were made available. However, this method can cause dirt to build up and damage your lock.
If your patio door handles are difficult to open or close, you might need to replace the lock assembly. This problem is usually caused by loose screws, rust, or a misalignment of the latch hasp. The process of replacing the locks is relatively easy and requires little effort. If you are not sure how to go about it then you can call an expert company to get advice and assistance.
Installation
The patio door lock is among the most crucial elements of your home's security system. A lock of high-end quality that is in good working condition will help protect your family and possessions safe from unwanted intruders. Regular inspection and maintenance can ensure that the lock is operating properly. If you notice any problems with your patio door lock, it is recommended to seek professional assistance. A door hardware specialist or locksmith can offer the expert advice you need to ensure your replacement patio door lock will be correctly installed.
You will need to identify the handle on your patio door. The keyway is the hole that keys fit into to unlock and lock the door. When purchasing a new lock, you can accurately describe the keyway by taking a digital picture.
You should also take note of the type and size of the lock. Different types of locks come with different mounting holes, directions of swing and the sizes of the hasps. These information will help you determine the type of patio door lock you should purchase for your sliding door.
Surface mount locks, such as the ones that are shown here by Cal-Tech, are easy to install and will work on all sliding patio doors. They do require screws to remove the old handle, but once the screws have been removed, you can replace it with the new surface mount lock.
Steel mortise locks are the most common on wooden and aluminum patio door frames. They are placed in a small pocket cut into the frame. They are more difficult than other patio door lock types to replace, but with a bit of time and effort, you are able to do it.
It is important to know the exact dimensions of your mortise lock so that you can replace it with a comparable one. Most mortise locks are the same dimensions overall, but there are some key differences. The primary distinction is that certain mortise locks have keyways that are vertical and others have keyways that are angled at 45 degrees.