If your patio door lock isn't working correctly, it might be time to replace lock on patio door it. It's a pretty straightforward process.
The first thing you have to determine is the kind of lock you own. This can be done by observing the keyway's position on the lock assembly. Some keys have vertical keyways while others are tilted at 45 degrees.
Identifying the Lock You Have
The patio door is among the most sought-after points of access to homes for burglars. This is because it typically opens into an open or ventilating position. It is often located at the back of the home, making it simple to conceal an incline or other climbing equipment. This makes securing your patio doors crucial regardless of whether you wish to prevent children from leaving your property or deter a determined burglar.
You should familiarize yourself with the locks you currently have in order to assist you in choosing the best replacement patio door lock. This will help you identify the type of lock, its characteristics and security level. This is a good step to make before you start looking for new hardware since it will help ensure that the new lock is perfect and is securely fastened.
In many cases, you can determine the type of lock you have by observing the exterior of your door's frame or by looking inside the handle. You can also check the mechanism that locks your door to determine if it has a latch and the need for a key to activate it.
The most common lock used in upvc replacement door locks patio doors is a euro cylinder that is operated by either an handle or a key. The cylinder has an enclosure that holds the pin inside, which keeps it from being removed from the lock. The euro cylinder offers some degree of security, based on the manufacturer and whether 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 locking snapping.
A mortise lock is a steel lock built into the frame of the patio door. This type of lock can be found on both wood and aluminum patio doors. They can be extremely secure if installed correctly as the bolt is recessed into the frame so the intruder has to cut through the frame of the patio door and window sill to gain access to the lock.
Take a measurement of the Width of Your Door
Patio doors are often the most vulnerable points of entry into your home, particularly if they have large amounts of glass installed. Installing locks of top quality will make your home safer and will save you money on your insurance. Patio door locks are typically of two kinds:
Depending on the style and functionality you're looking for there are a number of different locks available. Some locks feature bolts that twist, cylinders that use mortise and lock keys as well as locking systems that use a hook latch.
You can determine the thickness of your existing patio door by using a tape measure to run along the edge of the door and record the measurement. It is also a good idea to determine the thickness of the frame of the door (known as jamb) in several places and then take the smallest measurement to help to determine which lock type is the most suitable for you.
If you're installing a new patio door, then you must measure of the rough opening width. This is the space that the patio door will be able to fit into and the measurement you'll require from the manufacturer in order to purchase an entirely new one. Get help from your supplier or refer to our guide if you're unsure how to measure.
You should also measure the approximate height of your opening however this isn't always easy since the floor of your home may not be level. Try measuring at three different locations, the at the centre and on both sides and then record the smallest measurement to determine the height.
Once you have your measurements, you are able to select a lock that fits your home and door. Installing an auxiliary security locking system will give you extra security against intruders. For instance the Patlock handlelock is designed to prevent doors from being opened if it is not secured or locked.
A central rail lock fitted with a key is the best option to ensure maximum security. It locks the patio door at a variety of points, and only requires one turn of the key. They provide a higher security level than standard locks and should result in a decrease in your home insurance premiums.
Check the End-Face Plate
You must be aware of the specifics of your existing lock to determine the best replacement. This will ensure that the new spindle and handle fit correctly on the door, and that the new latch catches in the latch hasp correctly.
You can tell what kind of mortise lock you have by examining the end-faceplate. This will help you determine what mortise lock you are using. It is also important to note the screw hole size so you can find an alternative that is compatible with your existing screws.
You should also take a look at the location of your current keyway. There are numerous types of patio door locks. It is crucial to know what type of lock comes with to match it with the appropriate keyway opening.
Then, look at the latch jamb of your door to see how to replace a lock on a upvc door 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. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by adding washers or a shim to the back of the latch keeper on the jamb.
If you have an E2105 mortise lock the latch keeper should be at least 1 inch away from the edge of the frame. It is also possible to determine the size of the latch holder to confirm that it is at the proper level.
In the majority of instances the latch holder will be slightly higher than the keyway opening on your current lock. This is to ensure that it does not interfere with your sliding door's operation.
If the latch keeper is too high, you can lower the height by tightening the screw or nut on the bottom. It is important not to over tighten the screw or nut as it could cause damage to the lock mechanism and the door. If your latch holder is too low you can raise it by using a screw or nut on top of the jamb on the door's keeper.
Observe the Screw Holes
Certain patio door locks utilize bolts cost to replace upvc door lock mechanism secure the doors, while others use a key-operated lock cylinder. Both types of locks require regular maintenance to ensure they function properly. To help keep your patio door safe, Lowe's offers a wide range of sliding glass door hardware and locking solutions. You can pick from a wide selection of styles for locks, including bolts with a twist, cylinder locks with a key, and mortise locking systems using a hook latch.
Some homeowners are unable lock their patio doors as the latch has fallen down or is not aligned with the strike plate. In some instances the problem could be due to minor door shifts or water ingress that has affected the moveable parts of your lock. In these instances an oil spray may be all that is required to get your door to lock once more.
Start by taking measurements of the length and width of your existing lock. You can use the ruler or tape measure to accurately measure this measurement. This will allow you to choose a replacement lock of the correct size. Then, take a look at the faceplate at the end to determine if it's round or square. This is important as it allows you to choose the right lock using the correct screw hole type.
Also, you'll need to note the location of the screw holes in your existing lock. If the screw holes are located at the top or bottom of the leading edge, then an extended bolt is required. The other alternative is to install a secure tamper-proof lock using screws that aren't removable.
The installation process is fairly straightforward once you have selected the lock that is best suited to your door. It is always recommended to seek professional assistance when you aren't sure about installing an outdoor lock. A professional locksmith or door hardware specialist can provide professional advice and ensure that your lock has been installed correctly. Your patio door locks can be a secure security option for you and your family members if they are properly maintained.