When It's Time For Patio Door Lock Replacement
If your patio door lock isn't working correctly, it could be time to replace it. Fortunately, it's a relatively easy process.
The first thing you have to determine is the type of lock you have. This can be done by observing the location of the keyway in the lock assembly. Some keyways are vertical while others are at a 45-degree angle.
Identifying Your Lock's Existing Lock
The patio door is a frequent point of entry for burglars. It is because the patio door is normally in an open or ventilating mode and is located at the back of a property, making it a breeze to conceal the ladder or other climbing equipment. It is essential to ensure the security of your patio door whether you want to keep children from leaving the home or deter an intruder.
To assist you in selecting the ideal patio door lock replacement, you should familiarise yourself with your existing locks. upvc door locks replacement exeter Repair My Windows And Doors will help you identify the type of lock, the features and security level. This is a good step to take prior to shopping for new hardware because it will help ensure that your new lock is perfect and is securely fastened.
In many cases, you can determine the type of lock you have by observing the outside of your door's frame, or checking the inside of the handle. You can also check the mechanism that locks your door, whether it has a latch or the need for a key to open it.
The most popular lock that is found on uPVC patio door is a euro cylinder that can be operated by a handle or a cylinder key. The cylinder has an enclosure that holds the pin inside and stops it from being removed from the lock. The euro cylinder can offer an appropriate level of security depending on the manufacturer and if the lock has passed the accredited anti-snap tests, however here at SheffLOCK we always recommend a 3 star diamond accredited TS007 ULTION euro cylinder as it offers far greater security against the most modern methods of lock snapping.
A mortise lock is a type of steel lock built into the frame of the patio door. This style of lock can be found on both aluminum and wood patio doors. They are extremely secure if installed correctly as the bolt is recessed into the frame so the intruder must cut through the patio door frame and window sill to access the lock.
Find out the width of your door
Patio doors are often the most vulnerable entrance point to your home. This is especially true if you own a lot of glass. Installing locks of high quality will make your home safer and you could save money on insurance. Locks for patio doors are generally of two kinds:
Based on the design and function you're seeking, there are a number of different locks available. Some come with twisting bolts, cylinder locks that use mortise locks and keys, and others with hook latches that are spring loaded.
You can measure the thickness of your existing patio door by using a tape measure that you run along the edge of the door and record the measurement. It's also a good idea to take measurements of the door frame (known as jamb) in several places and take the smallest measurement to help determine which patio door lock kind is best for you.
If you are installing a new patio door, then you should take a measure of the rough opening width. This is the space that the door will fit into and is the size that the manufacturer will need to supply you with a new door. Ask your supplier for assistance or consult our helpful guide if you're not certain how to measure.
You should also take a measurement of the opening's rough height however, this can be a challenge as the floor of your house may not be level. You can measure in three places, including the centre and both sides and note the smallest of these to calculate your height.
Once you've got your measurements, you can choose a lock that fits your home and door. Installing an auxiliary security locking system will provide you with additional protection from intruders. For instance a handlelock from Patlock is designed to block a door from being opened if not secured or locked.
A central rail lock fitted with a key is the best option for the highest security. The lock bolts the patio door into the frame at multiple points, and requires only one turn of the key to secure them all. They offer a greater security level than standard locks and will result in a reduction in your home insurance costs.
Examine the End-Face Plate
If you're ready to replace the handle on your patio door, you need to identify the specific details of the lock you have currently to determine an appropriate replacement. This will ensure that the new handle and spindle fit on the patio door and that the new latch can catch in the latch hasp.
You can identify the type of mortise lock you have by examining the end-faceplate. This will allow you to identify the mortise lock type you own. It is also important to note the size of the hole in order that you can find a replacement that matches up with the screws you have already.
It is also important to examine the location of your existing keyway. There are numerous types of patio doors locks. It is important to know which type your lock has in order to match it with the appropriate keyway opening.
Next, examine the latch keeper on your door jamb to see how close it is to the edge of the frame. If the latch keeper is too far back, it's going to be difficult to get it caught in the latch hasp, and the door won't close properly. This can be corrected by adding washers behind the latch keeper.
If you own an E2105 mortise lock the latch keeper must be approximately 1 inch from the edge of the frame. You may also want to measure the height of your latch holder.
In most cases, the latch holder will be a bit higher than the keyway opening on your current lock. This is to ensure that it does not interfere with the sliding door's operation.
If your latch keeper is not at the right height, you can lower it by inserting an nut or screw into the bottom of the keeper and tightening it. It is important not to over tighten the screw or nut as it could damage the lock mechanism and the door. If the latch holder is too high you can raise the holder of your latch by tightening a nut screw located at the top of keeper, on the jamb.
Pay attention to the Screw Holes
Certain patio door locks employ bolts to secure the doors, whereas others use the key-operated lock cylinder. Both types of locks require regular maintenance to function properly. To ensure the security of your patio door, Lowe's offers a wide range of sliding glass door hardware and locking solutions. You can choose from a range of styles of locks, including bolts that turn and cylinder locks that utilize mortise locks and keys with spring-loaded hook latch.
Some homeowners have trouble getting their patio door to lock because the latch has dropped or isn't aligned with strike plate (also known as the jamb for the door). In some instances the problem could be caused by minor door shifts or water ingress that has affected the moveable parts of your lock. In these instances, a little light oil might be all that's required to get your door to lock again.
The best place to start is to measure the width of your current lock. You can use a ruler or tape measure to measure this measurement accurately. This will allow you to select the replacement lock that is the right size. Next, observe the end face plate to determine whether it is round or square. This is important because it will help you choose a new lock with the correct screw hole.
Also, you'll need to note the location of the screw holes in your existing lock. If they are on the top or bottom of the leading edge, then a replacement with an extended bolt will be required. The other option is to install secure tamper-proof lock using screws that aren't removable.
The process of installing the lock is simple once you've selected the lock that's ideal for your door. It is recommended to seek professional assistance if you are unsure about installing the patio lock. A professional locksmith or door hardware specialist can provide professional advice and ensure that the lock has been installed correctly. If you take care of it the patio door locks will prove to be an effective and reliable security feature that will protect you and your family safe from intruders.