Conservatory Door Lock Repairs
Conservatory door locks are an essential component of the security of your home. It is crucial to call a locksmith as soon as they start to fail.
Luckily, most repair work for door locks on conservatories are relatively simple and easy to carry out. The most common issues are: Floppy handles, hinges that are sagging, mechanisms and locking issues are a few of the most frequently encountered issues.
Broken or damaged locks
Securing your conservatory doors properly is a top priority. If you notice your lock is damaged or defective, contact an expert to get it fixed as soon as possible. This will help stop any possible break-ins or damage to property.
If your lock isn't opening or closing as it should, the first thing to check is if there's something wrong with the hinges. You may have to tighten them in order to stop the door from sliding. If this doesn't solve the problem, then there could be a problem with the latch or bolt, that will require to be replaced.
Another common problem is that your key doesn't turn inside the cylinder. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including dirt or dust that has accumulated in the lock. If this is the case, try clearing away any debris and then applying lubricant to allow the mechanism to move again.
It's possible that the key is not aligned correctly and isn't turning in the cylinder. This is more likely with older locks that have seen a lot of wear and wear and tear. In this situation, it is best to leave the repairs to an expert. They will be able to conduct an extensive assessment of the issue and fix it accordingly.
If your uPVC locks are damaged it is possible to replace the entire mechanism. This is a difficult job and should only by done by professionals. To accomplish this you must remove the handle, detach the spindles and handles and then loosen the mechanism. Then, you need to measure the main dimensions of the mechanism to ensure that you purchase an appropriate replacement that will fit.
Your lock may not open or close due to a multipoint locking system that is not working properly or an anchor or security bolt that has become stuck. This requires the assistance of a professional and may require disassembling the entire lock.
Sagging Hinges
Many door sag problems are caused by loose frame screws or hinge screws. If tightening the screws do not solve the problem, you can add reinforcements that ensure that the hinges remain in their place. You can use wood veneers, pennies, popsicle sticks or even a thin piece of cardboard to fill the gap between the frame and the hinge. If you are unable to find an appropriate material to fill in the gap, you can use longer screws. They will be able grasp studs deeper and will provide more support.
After you've put in your shims then screw the hinge back into position. Make sure to tighten the screws a few times at one time. Be conservatory repairers not to overtighten them and damage the hinges or frames. Test the door to make sure that it is closing and latching correctly. If you've solved the sagging issue You may also think about adding a third hinge to distribute the door's weight more evenly and prevent future issues.
If the sagging is due to a misaligned jamb You can use longer screws to draw the jamb tighter. To do this, you must remove the screw that is on the lock-side of the hinge. Replace it with a longer one that extends beyond framing. Repeat the process with any screws remaining on the hinge.
Another possibility is that the strike plate may be placed in an incorrect position. This could cause the frame to rub against the door, leaving scratches and making it difficult for latches. Try sanding the edges of the strike plate with your hand or with an orbital sander to smooth out the rough area.
Floppy Door Handle Mechanism
Over time, the screws that secure your door handle mechanism can be loose, causing it to feel loose. This is not only inconvenient but can be an issue for security as it may indicate that the internal mechanisms aren't engaging properly to stop your home from being invaded. A door handle that is loose can also be difficult to operate as you may have to exert more pressure when trying to secure it.
Luckily, this is usually an easy fix. Find the screw that is holding the barrel portion of the handle and tighten it. You could also try loosening the screws and see if it realigns the handle back into the horizontal position.
It is also possible to grease the spring inside your uPVC handle. You can do this job easily with WD40 or regular grease.
After you have removed the door handle and taken it apart you should be able see if there are any loose or missing screws. You can tighten loose screws using a screwdriver or replace them if damaged or broken. After cleaning the screw heads, you can use an alcohol-soaked towel to wash away any oil-based residues. You can then apply a threadlocker to the screws to ensure they remain securely in the correct position.
In certain situations, it could be necessary for the entire uPVC lock mechanism to be replaced. In this instance you should choose a handle set that have been approved by the manufacturer. For example you can use a Sold Safe SS301 or a Kitemark 2*. This will help to ensure that your conservatory remains as secure as is possible and will help prevent burglaries.
It is recommended to have your locks regularly serviced by a locksmith who is certified. This will keep them in good condition and reduce the possibility of developing defective components. It is also recommended that you upgrade your handles and locks to a higher security level while you're doing so. This will prevent unauthorized entry, and improve the security of you and your family.
Locked out
If your key turns and spins inside the lock, but the door isn't opening, you could be locked out. Call a professional before you attempt to alter the lock. They will be able to gain access to your door without causing damage to it or the lock, and will have replacements locks on hand. Sometimes, this issue is caused by an inconsistency in the alignment of the door and can be corrected easily with a few adjustments through hinges. Sometimes, this issue can be caused by a broken lock that has to be replaced.
Do not force your conservatory door open, as this could cause damage to the lock or mechanism, and you could be locked out.