A Productive Rant About Replacement Locks For Patio Doors
Replacement Locks For Patio Doors at Lowe's
Replacing the patio door lock is a straightforward and efficient way to increase the security of your home. However, proper installation and routine maintenance is crucial.
In order to successfully replace a patio door lock it is essential to know what kind of lock your existing one is. The size of the screw hole and type of faceplate on the end will assist you in identifying the type.
Identifying the lock you have
When deciding to purchase new hardware for your locks, it's essential that you be aware of the differences between kinds of locks. This will allow you to locate a replacement suitable for your home and also ensure the safety and security of your home.
The most common lock is one that is a Cylinder lock. It's also known as pin-and-tumbler lock. This type of lock uses combination bottom pins springs, top pins, and top pins to secure the keyhole and plug. Cylinder locks are available in a variety sizes and it is essential to know the exact dimensions and length of the cylinder you currently have before purchasing the replacement.
To determine the size of the lock you have make use of a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the cylinder in place, and then gently pull it out. Then, measure the distance between the outside edge of the cylinder and its inner edge and note this measurement in millimeters.
repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk can then check this number against the measurements of the new lock you're planning to buy. This will ensure that your new lock is the correct size and fits in the existing door lock hole.
A key can also be used to check the size of an existing lock. If the key slides easily into the cylinder, then it's the same size as the rekey kit you need. If the key is unable to slide into the cylinder your cylinder is likely to have a different keyway, and thus cannot be rekeyed in a way that it will accept that brand of key.
It is essential to follow the instructions supplied by the manufacturer with a kit for rekeying. Every kind of lock has specific installation requirements. It is also a good idea to spend the time to thoroughly test the new lock after you have installed it to ensure it is working properly and provides you with optimum security. It is also important to be aware of the additional features of the new lock, as they can impact its ease of use.
Measure the Width
A patio door lock that's not working correctly could lead to serious security problems. It is important to inspect your locks on a regular basis and replace them if needed. This will ensure that they are functioning properly and are safe. It could also help to prevent problems such as a broken latch or keyway. Lowe's has replacement locks that will give your home the security it needs regardless of whether the locks you have are damaged or worn out.
Before you can purchase a new patio door lock, it's essential to determine the dimensions of your existing one. This will help you determine the right size lock to purchase and reduce the risk of buying the wrong lock. fit. To determine this, you'll need take two measurements: the backset length and the case depth. The former refers to the distance between the edge of the lock's face to where the centre of the round hole through which the handle spindle passes through, while the latter refers to the depth of the body of the lock that is visible from the outside of the door.
When choosing the type of lock you want to use it is essential to consider the way you intend to use your doors. If your sliding doors swing horizontally you will need top and bottom tab locks that engages with the strikeplate, preventing it from being lifted or opened. If your patio doors open vertically, you will require mortise latches that have a spring loaded hook latch to provide additional security.
When determining the dimensions of your current lock, it's essential to note the location of the screw holes. Some mortise locks have round screws, while others have square screws. You'll be able to determine the location of the keyway. Some locks have a vertical keyway whereas others are 45-degree angled. Take a picture of the lock using a digital camera to make sure you receive the proper replacement.
After you've taken the measurements and have completed the measurements, it's time to begin looking for a new patio door lock. There are a variety of top-quality products on the internet and many of them are branded with advanced security features to protect your home. It is important to compare locks and read reviews prior to you make a decision. Lastly, don't forget to regularly clean your locks to stop dirt and other debris from interfering with the function of your doors.
Observe the Screw Holes
Patio doors are an important part of your home's security. They must be inspected for signs of wear to ensure they function properly. As time passes, your locks and spindle securing the interior and exterior handles will need to be replaced. A sturdy lock will not only to prevent intrusion, but it will also improve security, energy efficiency and security.
If you're not sure of the exact type of lock that your patio door is equipped with, there are several ways to narrow your search to find an alternative. To begin with, determine the type of keyway that is employed. Rectangular mortise locks with cutouts are typically used on aluminum patio doors, while E2126 and E2079 locks are installed in a recess in the frame of wood or vinyl patio doors. If you have a digital camera, uploading a picture of the lock may aid in determining the type it is.
You can also determine the kind of lock by examining the screw holes. The majority of sliding patio door locks have screw holes that are aligned with the latch keeper mounted on the side jamb, but they're not always the same. For instance there are screws that are larger than others, and may have an alternative threaded end. Some screws also come with washers or a hex nut attached to them, which may affect how they fit into the lock's hasp.
Once you know what type of lock your home has, you can start planning to replace it. The first step is to clean the lock with a damp brush or cloth to remove any dirt or debris that could hinder its operation. Once clean, you can apply a silicone-based oil to keep the locking mechanism smooth and quiet.
After that, it's a great idea to replace the screws with longer ones. This will help you get an improved grip, and install the lock with less effort. After you've completed that it's a good idea test the handle and see how the latch hasp is engaged in the lock.
If the hasp isn't engaging it is possible to install an hex-nut or washer behind it to allow it to catch more of the lip of the door. You could even put a shim on the side of the lock keeper that is on the jamb to see if that can help.
Check the Lock Snib
The snib or mechanism for locking, is located in the handle of the door. The snib can be turned off and on to open or close your patio doors and is the first thing to look at if your locks aren't operating properly. You should also examine the keepers at the top and bottom door frames to see if there is any misalignment or looseness which could cause them to break. Make sure your snib is properly seated and that the lock isn't jammed or otherwise blocked in any way.
The most commonly used patio door locks are steel mortise locks that lock sliding glass doors. Incorporated into the door frame they are available in various designs and are a reliable security measure. Some are designed to hold keys while others feature an oval cutout that makes it simple to lock and unlock.
Another option is a step-on lock that has a thumb-screw design that securely keeps your sliding doors in place without having you to turn the knob or use the key. These locks are often used on older patio doors, but could be a great choice for securing vinyl or wood-framed sliding doors as well.
While you're examining your existing patio door lock, make a note of the kind and size of screw holes it uses to mount the escutcheon plate as well as the body of the lock. This will help you choose an alternative lock that has the correct screw holes for your specific patio door hardware. It's a good idea to examine your strike plate to make sure it's securely secured.
If you have Jason Windows boltlock sliding doors from 2000-2009, make sure the screws that hold the door are secure and not loosened or missing. The screws hold the snib in a partially open "vent" mode to allow airflow, while still encouraging security. They are also essential to stop your lock from being cut. All locks should be cleaned and inspected regularly to prevent dirt, dust, corrosion, or debris from obstructing their operation.
If your snib has broken it could be possible to simply replace the entire strike plate and snib unit. If, however, your snib is simply wrongly aligned, you can fix it yourself by taking the strike plate off with a putty knife, and then backing out the adjustment screw (located between the screw) to move the strike plate up or down until the engagement tongue aligns with the Milgard logo on the snib.