When It's Time For Patio Door Lock Replacement
If your patio door lock isn't functioning properly, it may be time for a replacement. It's a pretty simple process.
The first thing to do is determine the type lock that you own. This is done by looking at the keyway's position on the lock assembly. Some keyways are vertical, while others have a 45-degree angle.
Identifying the lock you have
The patio door is a frequent point of entry for burglars. This is because it usually opens to an open or ventilating position, and is usually located behind the home, making it simple to conceal the ladder or other climbing equipment. This makes the security of your patio doors essential regardless of whether you wish to keep children from leaving your home or deter an intruder who is determined to break into your home.
You should familiarize yourself with the locks you currently have to help you choose the most suitable replacement patio door lock. This will allow you to determine what kind of lock you have, the features it comes with and the type of security it offers. This is a crucial step to consider before purchasing new hardware. It will ensure that the new lock is correctly fitted and securely secured.
You can often identify the type of lock by looking at the exterior of the door frame or the inside of the handle. You can also determine the type of locking mechanism your door is equipped with, if it is equipped with a latch, or if it requires a key for activation of the lock.
The most popular lock used in uPVC patio doors is a euro cylinder that is operated with a handle or a key. The cylinder is fitted with an enclosure that holds the pin inside and stops it from being removed from the lock. The euro cylinder can offer a certain level of security based on the manufacturer and whether the lock has passed accredited anti-snap tests, however here at SheffLOCK we always recommend a diamond 3 star certified TS007 ULTION euro-cylinder as it offers more protection against the latest methods of locking snapping.
A mortise is a steel locking mechanism that is integrated into the frame. This kind of lock can be found on both aluminum and wood patio doors. If installed correctly, they can be very secure since the bolt is set into the frame. This means that an intruder will need to cut through the frame of the patio door or window sill prior to gaining access to the lock.
Find the Width of Your Door
Patio doors are often the most vulnerable points of entry into your home, particularly in the case of large quantities of glass installed. Installing locks of high quality will ensure your home is secure and could save you money on insurance. The most popular types of patio door lock are:
Based on the style and functionality you're looking for there are many different lock options available. Certain locks come with bolts that twist, while others use mortise and lock keys, and locking systems that have hook latches.
You can check the thickness of your existing patio door by using the tape measure along the edge of the door and record the measurement. You can also determine the thickness of your door frame (also called a jamb), and make use of the smaller measurement to determine the ideal patio door lock.
You should determine the width of your opening prior to installing a patio door. This is the area the door will be able to fit into and is the measurement that the manufacturer must have to supply you with a door. If you're unsure of what size to choose the area, ask your provider for advice or see our handy guide:
It is also important to take a measurement of the opening's rough height however, this isn't always easy since the floor of your house might not be level. You can measure in three places, including the at the centre and on both sides, and record the smallest of these to calculate your height.
Once upvc door locking mechanism replacement have the measurements, you can select the lock that will work with your door and home. You can also install an additional security lock to provide additional security against intruders such as a patlock handle lock, which is designed to stop the door from being opened even if it's locked or latched.
For the highest level of security, a central rail key-operated lock is a great option. It locks the patio door at multiple points, and requires only one turn of the key. These locks provide a greater security and may reduce the cost of your home insurance.
Examine the end-face plate
You need to know the precise details of the lock you have in order to determine the best replacement. This will ensure that the new handle and spindle will fit correctly on the door, and also that your new latch is secured in the correct hasp of the latch.
You can tell what kind of mortise lock that you have by examining the faceplate at the end. This will help you identify the mortise lock type you have. You should also note the screw size to ensure that you get a replacement that fits the screws you have already.
It is also important to take a look at the location of your current keyway. There are several different types of patio door locks and it is vital that you know what type your lock is currently using to be able to match it with the correct keyway opening.
Examine the latch keeper at the edge of the jamb of your door. If the latch keeper is too far from the frame, it's difficult to get it caught in the latch hasp and the door will not close properly. This can be corrected by adding washers behind the latch keeper.
If you have mortise lock E2105, the latch keeper needs to be at least one inch from the frame edge. You may also want to measure the size of the latch holder to ensure it is at the correct level.
In most cases, your latch holder will be slightly higher than the lock's keyway. This is to ensure that it does not interfere with the operation of your sliding door.
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. Do not overtighten the screw because it may damage the lock mechanism and the door. If the latch holder on your door is too low you can raise it using an nut or screw at the top of the jamb on the door's keeper.
Be sure to check the screw holes
Certain patio door locks employ bolts to secure the doors, while others utilize the key-operated lock cylinder. Both types of locks need regular maintenance to function properly. Lowe's has a variety of sliding glass door locks and hardware to secure your patio door. There are a variety of lock styles, including bolts that twist and cylinder locks that make use of mortise and key locks with spring-loaded hook latch.
Some homeowners are having trouble getting their patio door to lock because the latch has dropped or isn't aligning with the strike plate (also called the jamb of the door). In some instances, the issue may be caused by small door movements or water ingress which has affected the movable parts of your lock. In these instances the use of a tiny amount of light oil may suffice for the door to lock.
Begin by taking measurements of the width and length of the lock you currently have. You can use tape measure or a ruler to precisely measure this measurement. This will allow you to choose the replacement lock of the correct size. Then, look at the end face plate to determine whether it is square or round. This is important because it lets you choose the right lock using the correct screw hole type.
You will also want to notice the position of the screw holes on your current lock. If the screw holes are on the top or at the bottom of the leading edge then an extended bolt is required. The other alternative is to install a lock that is tamper-proof and has screws that are not removable.
The installation process is relatively straightforward once you have selected the lock that's ideal for your door. It is recommended that you seek professional assistance when you aren't sure about installing an outdoor lock. An experienced locksmith or door hardware expert can provide expert guidance and advice as well as make sure that your lock is properly installed. Your patio door locks could be a reliable security feature for you and your family if they are properly maintained.