When It's Time For Patio Door Lock Replacement
If your patio door lock isn't working well, it might be time for a replacement. It's a pretty easy procedure.
The first step is to determine the kind of lock you have. This can be done by looking at the position of the keyway in the lock assembly. Some keys have vertical keyways while others are bent at 45 degrees.
Identifying the Lock You Have
The patio door is a common point of entry for burglars. This is because it typically opens to an open or ventilating position, and is often located at the back of the home, making it simple to hide a ladder or other climbing equipment. This makes securing your patio doors essential, whether you want to prevent children from escaping your home or deter a determined burglar.
It is important to familiarize yourself with the locks you currently have to help you choose the most suitable replacement patio door lock. This will allow you to identify what type of lock you currently have, the features it has, and what kind of security it offers. This is a crucial step to make prior to purchasing new hardware. It will ensure that the new lock is correctly fitted and securely secured.
You can usually determine the kind of lock by looking at the exterior of the door frame or the inside of the handle. You can also examine the mechanism that locks your door, if it has a latch or the need for a key to open it.
The most commonly used lock in uPVC patio doors is a euro-cylinder that operates with either a handle or keys. The cylinder is fitted with an internal sleeve that keeps the pin in place and stops it being removed from lock. The euro cylinder may provide some degree of security based on the manufacturer and if the lock has passed a reputable anti snap testing but here at SheffLOCK we recommend a diamond 3 star certified TS007 ULTION euro cylinder as it offers more protection from the most recent methods of snapping locks.
A mortise is a locking mechanism that is incorporated into the frame. This style of lock can be found on both aluminum and wood patio doors. They can be very secure if installed correctly, as the bolt is recessing into the frame, so the intruder must cut through the frame of the patio door and window sill in order to gain access the lock.
Take note of the width of your door
Patio doors are the most vulnerable entry point into your home. This is especially true if you own lots of glass. Installing locks of high quality will ensure your home is secure and you could save money on your insurance. The most common types of patio door locks are:
There are a variety of lock options based on design and functional requirements. Some locks have bolts which twist, cylinders that use mortise and lock keys as well as locking systems that use a hook latch.
Use a tape measure along the edge of your patio door to record the thickness. It's also a good idea to measure the thickness of the frame of the door (known as jamb) in various places, and use the smallest figure to help determine which lock for your patio door type will be best for you.
If you are installing a new patio door, then you must take a measurement of the rough opening width. This is the area the door will fit in, and it's the size that the manufacturer must have to supply you with a brand new door. If you're unsure of the best way to measure you need to ask your supplier for help or refer to our handy guide:
It is also important to measure the approximate height of your opening however, this can be tricky because the floor of your house might not be level. You could measure in three areas including the center, both sides and the corners, and then note the smallest measurement to get your height.
Once you've got your measurements, you are able to select a lock that fits your door and home. Installing an auxiliary security locking system can provide you with additional protection from intruders. For instance the Patlock handlelock is designed to prevent the door from being opened if not secured or locked.
A central rail lock fitted with a key is the best choice for the highest security. This locks the patio door at multiple points, and requires only one turn of the key. They offer a greater level of security than standard locks and will result in a reduction in your home insurance premiums.
Check door locks replacement wokingham repairmywindowsanddoors -face plate
You must know the exact details of the lock you currently have to select the appropriate replacement. This will ensure that the new handle and spindle fit for the door and that the new latch can catch in the latch hasp.
You can determine the type of mortise lock you own by looking at the faceplate at the end. This will help you determine the mortise lock type you own. You should also take note of the screw's size to ensure that you find a replacement that fits the screws you have already.
Also, you must check the position of your current keyway. There are several different types of patio door locks, and it is vital that you know what type the lock you currently have to ensure that you find the appropriate keyway opening.
Then, look at the latch keeper on the door jamb to determine how close it is to the edge of the frame. If the latch keeper on the door jamb is too far back it will be difficult to catch the latch hasp. The door won't close properly. This can be corrected by putting washers on the back of the latch keeper.
If you own an E2105 mortise lock the latch keeper should be at least 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 so that it doesn't interfere with the operation of the sliding door.
If your latch keeper is not at the right height you can lower it by putting a screw or nut into the bottom of the keeper and tightening it. Be careful not to over tighten this screw, as it could damage the lock mechanism or the door. If your latch holder is too low you can raise it by using a screw or nut at the top of the keeper on the door jamb.
Make sure you check the screw holes
Many patio door locks use locks bolts to secure the door, while others have a key-operated cylinder. Both types of locks require regular maintenance in order to function properly. To help ensure the security of your patio door, Lowe's offers a wide selection of sliding glass door hardware and locking solutions. There are a variety of lock styles, including bolts that twist, cylinder locks that use mortise and key locks with spring-loaded hook latches.
Some homeowners are unable to lock their patio doors as the latch has fallen off or is not aligned with the strike plate. In some cases, the problem may stem from minor alterations in the door or water intrusion that has affected movable parts of the lock. In these cases an oil spray may be all that is required to get your door to lock once more.
Start by measuring the width and length of your existing lock. A tape measure or ruler can be used to accurately determine the measurement and enable you to select a replacement lock that is the correct size. Next, observe the end face plate to determine whether it is round or square. This information is crucial as it allows you to select an appropriate lock that has the right screw hole.
Also, you will want to note the location of the screw holes in your existing lock. If the screw holes are at the top or the bottom of the leading edge then an extended bolt is required. Another option is to install a secure tamper-proof lock using screws that aren't removable.
After you have decided on the type of lock that is most suitable for your door, the process of installation can be quite simple. If you are not comfortable installing a patio door lock on your own, it is always recommended to seek professional help. A seasoned locksmith or door hardware specialist will be able to provide expert guidance and assistance as well as make sure that your lock is properly installed. With proper care your patio door locks will prove to be an effective and reliable security feature that can ensure that you and your family are secure from burglars.