When It's Time For Patio Door Lock Replacement
If your patio door lock isn't operating well, it might be time to replace it. Fortunately, it's a relatively straightforward procedure.
The first step is to identify the kind of lock you own. You can do this by observing the position of the keyway within the lock assembly. Some keys have vertical keyways while others are tilted at 45 degrees.
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 situated behind the property, making it a breeze to hide a ladder or climbing equipment. This makes the security of your patio doors crucial whether you are trying to prevent children from leaving your home or deter a determined burglar.
It is important to familiarize yourself with the locks you have to help you choose the best replacement patio door lock. This will help you identify what type of lock you have, the features it has, and what kind of security it offers. This is a good step to make before you begin shopping for new hardware since it will ensure that your new lock is perfect and is securely fastened.
You can usually identify the kind of lock by looking at the outside of the door frame or the inside of the handle. You can also check the type of lock your door has, in the event that it has a latch or it requires a key to engage the lock.
The most common lock used in uPVC patio doors is a euro cylinder that operates with either the handle or a key. The cylinder is fitted with an internal sleeve that keeps the pin in place and stops it from being removed from the lock. The euro cylinder can provide an amount of security, based on the manufacturer. If the lock has been inspected for anti-snap approval, it will also be able to offer some degree of security. However we at SheffLOCK we always recommend the 3 star diamond accredited (TS007 ULTION) euro cylinder. It offers much more protection from lock snapping.
A mortise lock is a type of steel lock that is incorporated into the frame of the patio door. This type of lock can be found on both wood and aluminum patio doors. They are extremely secure if they are installed correctly since the bolt is embedded into the frame and the intruder has to cut through the patio door frame and window sill to gain access to the lock.
Find out the width of your door
Patio doors are often the most vulnerable entry point into your home. This is especially true if you own lots of glass. Installing locks that are of the highest quality can make your home more secure and will save you money on your insurance. The main types of patio door locks are:
Depending on the style and function you're seeking, there are a number of different locks available. Some locks feature bolts that twist, while others use a lock key and mortise locking systems that have hook latches.
You can determine the thickness of your current patio door using the tape measure across the edges of the door and then record the measurement. It's recommended to measure the thickness of the door frame (known as jamb) in various places and then make use of the smallest measurement to help determine which lock for your patio door type will be best for you.
It is important to measure the opening width before installing the patio door. This is the area that the door will fit in, and it's the size that the manufacturer must have to provide you with a brand new door. If you're not sure of how to measure, ask your supplier for help or refer to our handy guide:
It is also essential to measure the height of the opening, however this can be a challenge in the event that your floor isn't level. You can measure in three places, the centre, both sides and the corners, and then note the smallest measurement in order to determine your height.
Once you have the measurements, you can pick a new lock that will fit your door and your home. You can also install an additional security lock to give you additional security against intruders such as a patlock handle lock, which is designed to prevent the door from being opened if it's not locked or fastened.
A central rail lock with a key is the best option for the highest security. This locks the patio door at multiple points, and only requires one turn of the key. These locks provide a greater level of security and can reduce your home insurance rates.
Check the End-Face Plate
When you are ready to replace your patio door handle you must determine the particulars of the lock you currently have to choose an appropriate replacement. This will ensure that the new handle and spindle fit for the door and that the new latch is able to be secured by the latch's hasp.
You can determine the type of mortise lock you own by looking at the faceplate at the end. This will allow you to identify the type of mortise locks you own. You should also take note of the screw's size to ensure that you get the correct replacement for the screws you have already.
Also, you should 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 your current lock has so that you can 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 away it's difficult to get it caught in the latch hasp and the door won't close properly. This can be fixed by adding washers behind the latch keeper.
If you own a mortise lock E2105 the latch keeper needs to be at least one inch from the frame edge. You may also want to measure the height of your latch holder.
In the majority of cases the latch holder will be slightly higher than the keyway opening of your existing lock. This is to ensure that it doesn't interfere with your sliding door's operation.
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. You should not overtighten the screw because it may damage the lock mechanism and the door. If the latch holder is too tall, you can raise the latch holder by tightening a nut screw on the top of the keeper on the jamb.
Be aware of the screw holes
Certain patio door locks utilize bolts to secure doors, whereas others use keys-operated lock cylinders. Both kinds of locks require regular maintenance to ensure that they function correctly. To help keep your patio door safe, Lowe's offers a wide variety 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 that have hook latches.
Certain homeowners are unable to lock their patio doors due to the latch has fallen down or is not aligned with the strike plate. In some cases, the problem may stem from minor alterations in the door or from water intrusion that has impacted the moveable parts of the lock. In these instances the use of a tiny amount of light oil might be all that's needed for the door to lock.
The best way to begin is by measuring the width of your existing lock. You can use a ruler or tape measure to measure this measurement accurately. This will allow you to select a replacement lock of the correct size. After that, examine the face plate to determine if it is square or round. This is important as it helps you select a new lock that has the correct screw hole.
Also, you will want to note the location of the screw holes in your existing lock. If they are at the top or bottom of the leading edge, then a replacement with an extended bolt is required. Installing a tamper-proof lock with a screw that cannot be removed is an alternative.
After you have decided on the lock type that is the best fit for your door, the process of installation is fairly straightforward. If patio door lock replacement 're not confident installing a patio door lock yourself, it is always recommended to seek professional help. A seasoned locksmith or door hardware specialist can offer expert guidance and assistance, as well as ensure 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.