How to Fix a Composite Door Replacement Lock
Many homes have a composite door installed due to their attractive appearance, enhanced security and insulation properties. Most problems with these doors are caused by a faulty mechanism and can often be corrected without having to replace your composite door.
A lock that is sticky is a frequent issue that is caused by difficult to insert or turn the key. This issue can be solved by oiling the internal mechanisms of your door lock.
Warped Doors
Composite doors are incredibly durable, reliable and long-lasting however this doesn't mean that they are immune to damage or problems. Inability to open doors correctly are two of the most common composite door problems. Some of these issues are repaired, while others require more maintenance and work.
The doors made of wood and composite are prone to warping which happens when the material is bent and change shape because of exposure to different temperatures and moisture. This can cause the door to be stiff and difficult to open or close, and it could also affect how it functions as a lock. The best method to avoid the warping of the door made of composite is to select a high-quality composite door with a finish or coating that shields the door from UV and moisture radiation.
Another issue that is common to composite doors is sticking locks. The lock mechanism and handles are susceptible to being covered in dirt, dust or other debris, making it difficult to lock or unlock the door. In the worst cases it can cause security issues for your home as it's simple for unauthorized people to gain access to your home. This can be avoided by cleaning your composite doors with a damp rag and applying graphite lubricant on them every six months.
The drainage systems inside the doors made of composite can become blocked, which causes water to leak into your home. This is typically because the weather seals have been dislodged over time and are not pushing as hard against their track. Verifying that they are positioned and pushing them back into their place will help to prevent this issue.
The hinges on your composite doors could drop over time and cause them to get caught. This could be due to a variety of factors such as moisture changes, over heating, or not closing the doors correctly. Re-adjusting the hinges with a hex-key, flathead screwdriver, and Phillips-head screws will solve this issue. Also, applying a lithium-based oil to the hinges every 6 months can help to keep this from happening.
Locks that aren't working
Composite doors are sturdy and durable. However, this doesn't mean that they will never be damaged or encounter issues. Whether it's warping, swelling or a lock that cannot turn the way it should, these issues could affect the security of your door as well as its performance. Fortunately, a lot of these problems can be fixed with the right tools and expertise.
The problem of defective locks is a concern for both uPVC doors and composite doors. Composite doors are, however, more likely to be less troublesome than uPVC doors because of their construction. Often, the lock itself might require replacement or it could be a matter of adjusting the locking mechanism and lubricating the keyhole. To prevent damage, it is recommended to apply graphite lubricants like WD-40, on the cylinder of the lock and key.
If your new composite door is difficult to open and close, it's likely that the locking points have shifted out of alignment or the mechanism has become faulty. In this situation it is essential to speak with a locksmith in order to ensure that the lock and door are in the correct position.
The most common cause of the malfunctioning lock in a composite door is the swelling of the material used to construct the doors. This is caused by increased humidity or damp conditions. The locking mechanism may not be able to engage properly.
This can then result in doors becoming difficult to open and close, as well as the security of your home at risk.
To avoid composite door glass replacement www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is important to establish the habit of 'throwing' the handle when you're closing and locking your composite door. This will engage all of the locking points that are located down the door and not just rely on the latch at the center which could leave the top and bottom of your composite doors prone to swelling and warping. This will not only guarantee that the lock is engaged but also increase the energy efficiency of the door.
Sticky Locks
A sticky lock is an issue that can happen on any type of door. This common problem can be quickly and easily solved by following a few easy steps. These suggestions will help keep your door lock made of composite in good condition.
One of the primary reasons that a lock will become sticky is because the internal components are worn out. Over time, the metal surfaces of the springs, pins and tumblers start to degrade, leading to friction and a build-up of dirt and grime. This gunk can cause the key to be difficult to turn, and may cause damage to the lock.
Using a powdered graphite or a Teflonbased lubricant, or PTFE, can help prevent these problems. Dry Lube from WD-40 is a well-known choice and can be found in many DIY stores. Utilize the straw of the can to apply a small quantity of lubricant into the lock mechanism. Slide your key into and out of the lock a few times to distribute the lubricant throughout the lock. After applying the lubricant clean off any excess so that it doesn't attract dirt and debris.
Another important aspect to think about is the way you close your composite door. By pounding the door or applying too excessive pressure on the handle could damage the lock mechanism more quickly, causing it to become stuck. Keep the door open for long periods of time to increase humidity inside the house and cause warping and mould.
While it is easy to take the locks on your composite door for granted, as they function as they should, it's essential to maintain them regularly in order to ensure they continue work correctly. These guidelines will ensure that your new composite lock is in good working order and that your home is secure. If you notice that your locks aren't working as they should, it's recommended to contact an expert locksmith to seek advice and assistance. They can examine the lock to determine the best solution for you, whether it's repair or replacement.
Key won't turn
Composite doors have a chic modern appearance and offer enhanced security and insulation. They are available in a variety of colours and finishes to complement your home's style and personality. While composite doors are built to last but they require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. Minor issues with composite doors can be fixed relatively easily like the doors that are stuck or not aligned.
Most often, composite doors are difficult to lock or open due to a poorly-fitting frame, expansion caused by weather changes, or due to the aging of the mechanism inside. In these instances the most frequent solutions involve altering the strike plate and hinges to ensure they sit snugly within the frame and can be opened and locked easily. You may also need to clean the inner locking mechanism to remove any obstructions.
If the key won't turn inside the lock, the internal locking mechanism may be faulty. It is required to be replaced. This is a situation that requires professional Locksmith help. Christopher the Locksmith provides a quick and efficient service, supplying you with similar locks at competitive prices.
The best way to avoid these issues is to keep the hardware and the door frame in good condition. It is crucial to clean them regularly to remove dirt and grime. Then apply the lubricant. To avoid further damage, use a lubricant that is specifically designed for doors and locks.
Another important preventive measure is to always hold the handle in the middle when closing the door with a composite (sometimes known as throwing the door) This helps ensure that the locking points are correctly engaged, thereby reducing the risk of warping and damage.
In the end, it is recommended to replace any composite doors fitted with an older locking mechanism with a new Kite Marked high-security cylinder. This will greatly reduce the chances of your doors being broken into as they come with anti-drill, anti bump and anti-snap safety. A lot of insurers require this as part of your home insurance policy. If your doors made of composite have been damaged in an attempted burglary, it's highly advisable to get in touch with a Locksmith to repair or replace the door immediately to avoid further damage.