When It's Time For Patio Door Lock Replacement
If your patio door lock isn't functioning correctly, it could be time to replace it. It's a simple process.
The first step is to determine the kind of lock you've got. This can be done by observing the position of the keyway on the lock assembly. Certain keyways are vertical, while others have an angle of 45 degrees.
Identifying Your Existing Lock
The patio door is a popular point of entry for burglars. It is because the patio door is usually in an open or ventilating state and is situated behind the home, making it easy to conceal a ladder or climbing equipment. This makes securing your patio doors important whether you are trying to prevent children from leaving your property or deter a determined burglar.
You should be familiar with the locks you currently have to help you choose the most suitable replacement patio door lock. This will let you identify what type of lock you have, the features it comes with and the type of security it offers. This is a good step to make before you start looking for new hardware because it will help ensure that your new lock fits perfectly and is securely fastened.
You can often identify the type of lock by looking at the exterior of the door frame or the inside of the handle. patio door lock replacement can also look at the locking mechanism of your door, whether it has a latch and if a key is required to activate it.
The most commonly used lock on uPVC patio door is a euro-style cylinder that can be operated with either a handle or a key. The cylinder has an internal sleeve that keeps the pin and prevents it from being removed from the lock. The euro cylinder offers an appropriate level of security, based on the manufacturer and if the lock has passed accredited anti-snap tests, however here at SheffLOCK we recommend a diamond 3 star accredited TS007 ULTION euro cylinder because it provides more protection from the most recent methods of locking snapping.
A mortise is a steel locking system that is incorporated into the frame. This kind of lock can be found on both wood and aluminum patio doors. They can be extremely secure if installed correctly, as the bolt is embedded into the frame and the intruder has to cut through the frame of the patio door and window sill to gain access to the lock.
Measure the Width of Your Door
Patio doors are often the most vulnerable entry points into your home, especially when they have a lot of glass. A good quality lock will make your home more secure and could even reduce the cost of your insurance policy. The main types of patio door locks are:
There are a myriad of lock options depending on your design and function. Some locks feature bolts that twist, cylinders that use mortise and lock keys as well as locking systems that have a hook latch.
Use a tape measure along the edge of your patio door to record the thickness. It's recommended to determine the thickness of the door frame (known as jamb) in various places and take the smallest measurement to determine which patio door lock kind is most suitable for your needs.
If you are installing a new patio door, then you must take a measurement of the opening width rough. This is the opening the patio door will be able to fit into and the measurement you'll require from the manufacturer in order to purchase the new door. If you're not sure of the best way to measure the area, ask your provider for assistance or consult our helpful guide:
It is also important to determine the height of the opening. However, this can be difficult in the event that your floor isn't level. You can take measurements in three locations in the middle, the centre as well as both sides and corners, and then take the smallest measurement to get your height.
Once you have your measurements, you are able to select the lock that best fits your home and door. Installing an auxiliary security locking system will give you additional protection from intruders. For example the Patlock handlelock is designed to prevent the door from being opened if not secured or locked.
For the highest level of security, a central rail key-operated lock is a great option. This bolts the door of your patio into the frame at multiple points and requires 1 turn to lock them all together. These locks offer a higher security and may reduce the cost of your home insurance.
Examine the end-face plate
If you're looking to replace your patio door handle it is important to determine the specific details of your current lock to determine the right replacement. This will ensure that the new handle and spindle are a perfect fit for the door and that the new latch will catch in the latch hasp.
First, examine the end-face plate to determine whether it is round or square. This will help you determine what mortise lock you have. It is also important to note the screw size to ensure that you get a replacement that fits your existing screws.
You should also take a look at the position of your existing keyway. There are numerous types of patio door locks. It is important to know which type your lock has in order to match it to the correct keyway opening.
Next, examine the latch keeper on your door jamb to determine how close it is to the frame's edge. If the latch keeper on the door jamb is far back it will be difficult to grasp the latch hasp. The door will not close properly. This can be corrected by putting washers behind the latch keeper.
If you have mortise locks E2105 The latch keeper needs to be at least 1 inch from the frame edge. You may also want to measure the height of the latch holder to ensure it is at the right level.
In the majority of cases, the latch holder is usually higher than the keyway opening on your existing lock. This is so that it will not interfere with the operation of your sliding door.
If the latch keeper is too high, you can reduce the height by tightening the screw or nut at the bottom. Do not overtighten the screw or nut as it could damage the lock mechanism and the door. If the latch holder is too tall, you can raise the holder of your latch by tightening the nut or screw on the top of the keeper on the jamb.
Observe the Screw Holes
Certain patio door locks employ bolts to secure doors, while others use a key-operated lock cylinder. Both types of locks require regular maintenance to function properly. Lowe's offers a wide selection of sliding glass door locks and hardware to help secure your patio door. You can select from a wide selection of styles for locks, including bolts with twist, cylinder locks using a key and mortise locking systems using hook latches.
Some homeowners are unable to lock their patio doors because the latch has fallen off or is not aligned with the strike plate. In some instances, the issue may be caused by small door movements or water ingress that has affected the moveable parts of your lock. In these situations just a little light oil could be all that's needed to make the door lock.
The best way to begin is to measure the width of your existing lock. You can use a ruler or tape measure to accurately measure this measurement. This will allow you to choose the replacement lock that is the right size. After that, examine the faceplate on the top to determine if it's round or square. This is important because it helps you choose the right lock using the correct screw hole type.
It is also important to be aware of the location of the screw holes in your current lock. If they are at the top or bottom of the leading edge then a new lock with an extended bolt is essential. Installing a tamper proof lock with non-removable screw is an alternative.
After you have selected the kind of lock that is the best fit for your door, the process of installation can be quite simple. If you are not comfortable installing a patio door lock yourself it is highly recommended to seek out professional help. A professional locksmith or door hardware expert can offer professional advice and ensure that the 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.