13 Things About Replacement Locks For Patio Doors You May Not Have Known

· 6 min read
13 Things About Replacement Locks For Patio Doors You May Not Have Known

Replacement Locks For Patio Doors at Lowe's

Replacing the patio door lock is a simple and effective method to improve the security of your home. However, proper installation and routine maintenance are essential.

It is crucial to know the type of patio door lock you are using to replace it effectively. The size of the screw hole as well as the kind of faceplate at the end will assist you in identifying the kind of lock you are replacing.

Identifying the lock you have

When deciding to purchase new lock hardware it is crucial to understand the differences between various types of locks. This will enable you to choose a lock that is suitable for your home and ensure its safety and security.

The most common lock is one that is a Cylinder lock. It's also known as pin-and-tumbler locks. This style of lock uses a combination of top pins, bottom pins, and springs in order to keep the key hole and plug secure. Cylinder locks come in a variety of sizes, and it is important to determine the exact length and diameter of your current cylinder prior to buying a replacement.

To determine the width take off the screws that hold the cylinder in position and carefully pull it out. Then, measure the distance between the outer edge of the cylinder and its inner edge and record this measurement in millimeters. You can then check this number against the measurements of the new lock you're planning on buy. This will ensure that the new lock is of the right size and fits into the hole in the door lock.

A key can be used to test the dimensions of a lock that is already in use. If the key slides easily into the cylinder, then it is the same width as the rekey kit that you require. If the key will not slide into the cylinder, the cylinder may have a different keyway, and therefore, it is not rekeyable to accept the same brand of key.

It is recommended to follow the instructions of the manufacturer included with a kit for rekeying and each lock has its own unique set of installation requirements. It is essential to test the new lock thoroughly after installation to ensure it operates correctly and provides maximum security. It is also crucial to be aware of any additional features your new lock may have because they could affect how easy it is to operate.

Take a measurement of the Width

A broken patio door lock could cause serious security issues. It is essential to check your locks frequently and replace them if necessary. This will ensure that they're operating properly and are secure. It could also help prevent issues such as a broken latch or keyway. If your locks are damaged or worn out, damaged, you can find replacements at Lowe's that will provide the security your home needs.

Before you buy a new patio door lock, you need to determine the dimensions of your current one. This will give you an idea of the size you need to buy and avoid the risk of buying a lock that doesn't fit. There are two measurements you need to accomplish this that are the backset and the depth of the case. The former refers to the distance from the edge of the lock's face to the centre of the round hole that the handle spindle passes through and the latter refers to the depth of the lock's body that can be viewed from the outside of the door.

It's also important to consider the way you will be using your doors before deciding on the type of lock you need. If your sliding doors swing horizontally, you'll need top-and-bottom tab lock that engages with the strikeplate and prevents it from being lifted or opened. If your patio doors are vertically oriented, you'll need to opt for mortise locks that have an attached hook latch that provides additional security.

When determining the dimensions of your current lock, it's essential to note the position of the screw holes. Certain mortise locks feature round screws while others have square screws. You'll be able to determine where the keyway is. Some have a vertical keyway, while others are angled at 45 degrees. It is a good idea to take a photo of the lock that is in use with your digital camera prior to attempting to take it off to ensure that you get the correct replacement.

After you've measured your home, it's now time to search for a new patio door lock. On the internet, you'll find a variety of top-quality locks. Many of the brands have sophisticated security features that safeguard your home. Selecting the right lock is an investment in the security of your home and security, so it's essential to shop around and read reviews prior to making a purchase. Also, make sure to regularly clean your locks to prevent dirt and debris from affecting the functionality of your doors.

Be aware of the screw holes

Patio doors play a crucial part in protecting your home. They must be examined for signs of wear and tear to make sure they're working correctly. Over time the spindle and locks that connect your interior and exterior handles could need to be replaced. A durable lock will not only prevent unwanted entry but will also improve security, efficiency and safety.

There are a variety of ways to narrow your search for a new lock, if you don't have the specific type. First, you must determine the type of keyway that is employed. Aluminum patio doors are usually equipped with a mortise locks with a rectangular cutout, while E2126 or E2079 locks are set in a recess within the frame. Uploading a picture of the lock using your digital camera will help you determine the type of lock you have.

You can also determine the type of lock by examining the screw holes. The screw holes on the majority of sliding patio door locks line up with the latch keeper that is placed on the side jamb. However they're not always identical. Some screws may be longer than others or have a different threaded finish. Some screws also come with washers or a hex nuts attached to them, which can affect the way they fit into the lock's hasp.


Once you have a good idea of the type of lock you have you can begin preparing to install the new lock. The first step is to clean the lock using a soft cloth or brush to get rid of any debris or dirt that could be affecting its operation. Once the lock is clean, you can use a silicone-based grease to keep it smooth and quiet.

It's a great idea replace your old screws with longer ones. This will help you to get more grip and also install the lock with less effort. Once you've finished it's a good idea to test the handle and observe how the latch hasp engages inside the lock.

If the hasp does not engage it, you may need to install a washer or hex-nut to it to make it catch more of the door's lip. You could also add a shim to the side of the lock keeper's side on the jamb to see if it can help.

Check the Lock Snib

The snib, or lock mechanism, is located within the handle of the door. The snib can be disengaged and engaged to open or close your patio doors, and is the first thing you need to look for if your locks aren't operating correctly. Also, check the keepers on the top and bottom of the door frames for any misalignment or looseness that could cause them to break. Make sure that your snib is properly seated and that the lock isn't snagged or otherwise blocked in any way.

The most common patio door locks are made of steel mortise latches that hold your sliding glass doors in place. They're installed in the door frame and come in different styles which makes them a great security measure. Some are designed to fit keys, while some have an oval cutout for simple locking and unlocking.

A step-on lock that is a thumb screw is a different option. It holds your sliding door in place without the need to turn the knob. These locks are often found on older metal-framed patio doors, but they can be a great choice for securing vinyl or wood-framed sliding doors too.

If you look over your current patio lock, note the type and size of the screw holes used to fix the escutcheon and lock body. This will allow you to choose a lock that has the appropriate screw holes. It's an excellent idea to examine the strike plate to ensure that it's aligned with your lock's body and securely secured.

If  door locks replacement bedford  boltlock sliding doors between 2000 and 2009, ensure the screws that hold the door are secure and not missing or loose. These screws hold the snib in a partially open "vent" mode, which allows airflow, while still encouraging security. They are also important to stop your lock from being smashed. All locks must be maintained and cleaned regularly to avoid dirt, dust, corrosion or debris from obstructing their operation.

If your snib broke it is possible to replace the entire strikeplate and snib. If your snib is just misaligned, you can easily fix it yourself by taking off the strike plate using a putty knife and backing out the adjustment screw (located between the screw) to shift the strike plate up or down until its engagement tongue is aligned with the Milgard logo on the snib.