How to Fix a Composite Door Replacement Lock
Many homes have composite doors for their stylish good looks, improved security and insulating properties. The majority of problems with these doors are caused by defective mechanism and can typically be fixed without the need to replace your composite door.
The most frequent issue is a lock that is sticky that occurs when it becomes difficult to put in or turn the key. This issue can be solved by oiling the internal mechanisms of your door lock.
Warped Doors
Composite doors are incredibly robust, reliable and durable however this doesn't mean that they are immune to damage or issues. Warping and inability to open your doors correctly are two of the most frequent composite door problems. Certain of these issues are easily fixable, while others require more work and maintenance.
Warping is a problem for composite and timber doors. This occurs when the materials change shape and bend over time as a result of being exposed to humidity and temperature variations. This can cause the door to become stiff and difficult to open or close and may also affect its ability to be used as a lock. The best method to avoid warping in the door made of composite is to select a top-quality composite door with a finish or coating that protects the door from UV and moisture radiation.
Locks that stick are a common problem for composite doors. This occurs when the lock mechanism and handles are covered in dirt, dust or other debris that makes it difficult to open or close the door. In the worst case, this can cause home security issues as it is easy for unauthorised individuals to gain access to your property. This can be prevented by cleaning your composite doors using a an abrasive rag and applying graphite lubricant to them every six months.
The water can get into your home if the drainage system within your composite door becomes blocked. This is typically a result of the weather seals becoming dislodged over time. This means that they aren't pressing strongly against the track. This issue can be avoided by ensuring that they are properly positioned and then pushing them back into place.
In addition, the hinges on your doors made of composite may be weakened over time, leading them to become snag. This could be due to a number of factors, including moisture changes or excessive heat, as well as not closing the door correctly. To remedy this, you can adjust the hinges using a hex key, Phillips-head screwdriver or flathead screwdriver. Also applying a lithium-based oil to the hinges once every six months will prevent this from occurring.
The locks are not working properly
Composite doors are durable and durable. This doesn't mean they won't be damaged or encounter issues. If it's swelling, warping, or a key that isn't turning, these issues can impact the security of your door as well as its performance. Fortunately, a lot of these problems are easily fixed using the right tools and knowledge.
The problem with locks that are defective can affect uPVC and composite doors, but composite doors are more likely to suffer less of this issue than an uPVC door because of the nature of their construction. The lock itself could require replacement, or it could simply be a matter of changing the locking mechanism and oiling the keyhole. To prevent damage, it's best to use graphite lubricants, like WD-40 on the lock's cylinder and key.
If your new composite door isn't able to open and close it's likely that the locking points have shifted out of alignment or the lock mechanism has become faulty. In this situation it is essential to call an expert locksmith to make sure that the door is in its correct position and that the lock is operating properly.
The primary reason for the problem with a lock that is defective on a composite door comes due to the expansion of the material that was used to make the doors. This is usually due to an increase in humidity or damp conditions and could result in locking mechanisms not being able to engage correctly.
This could result in doors becoming difficult to open and close, while putting your home security at risk.
To prevent this problem, it's important to get into the habit of 'throwing' the handle whenever closing and locking your composite door. This will trigger the various locking points on the door, and not just the latch in the middle that could leave your doors that are made of composite susceptible to swelling and warping. While ensuring the lock is engaged and secure, this will keep the door secure and increase the efficiency of its energy use.
Sticky Locks
Locks that stick are a common problem that can affect any type of door. This problem is easily and quickly fixed by following a few simple steps. These tips will keep your door lock made of composite in good working order.
The internal parts of a lock could wear out, which is one of the most frequent causes of the lock to become sticky. Over time, the metallic surfaces of the pins and springs of the tumblers' pins and springs start to wear down, which causes friction and dirt to accumulate. This gunk can make it difficult to turn the key and may also cause damage to the lock.
Using a powdered graphite, or a Teflonbased lubricant, or PTFE, can help to prevent these issues. WD-40 Dry Lube is a well-known choice and is available in most DIY stores. Simply use the straw in the can to apply a small amount grease directly to the lock mechanism. Then, slide your key into and out of the lock repeatedly to spread the lubricant across the entire lock. Make sure you clean any excess lubricant afterward so that it doesn't attract dirt and debris.
Closing your composite door is a second important aspect. The lock mechanism could be damaged faster when you bang the door or apply too much pressure on the handle. Also, keeping the door open for long durations can increase the amount of moisture in the home, which can result in mold or warping of the frame and door.
While it is easy to take your composite door's locks for granted, as long as they work properly it is vital to maintain them regularly in order to ensure they continue perform as they should. These guidelines will help keep your new door lock replacement made of composite in good working condition and ensure that your home remains safe. It is recommended to speak with an expert locksmith when you find that your locks aren't working as they should. They'll be able assess the lock and recommend the best method to fix the problem, including repair or replacement.
Key Doesn't Turn
Composite doors give a sleek and contemporary look, with improved security and insulation properties. They are available in a variety of colors and finishes to match your home's style and personality. Although composite doors are durable, they require regular maintenance to keep in top condition. Fortunately that the majority of minor issues with composite doors can be repaired with relative ease, such as sticky locks or misaligned doors.
In many cases, composite doors become difficult to open or lock due to a poorly-fitting frame, expansion caused by weather changes, or due to the aging of the internal mechanism. In these instances the most commonly used solution is to adjust the hinges and strike plate to ensure that they fit comfortably into the frame and can be easy to open and close. It is also possible to clean the inner locking the cylinder to eliminate any obstructions.
If the key doesn't turn inside the lock, the locking mechanism is likely to be defective and requires replacement. This is an issue that requires professional Locksmith help. Christopher the Locksmith offers a fast and efficient service, supplying you with like-for-like replacement locks at affordable prices.
The best way to prevent these issues is by keeping the hardware and door frame in good condition. It is essential to clean them regularly to remove dirt and grime, and then apply lubricant. When you use a lubricant make sure that it is specifically made for locks and doors to avoid causing further damage.
Another preventive measure you can take is to always place the handle up while closing a composite (also known as throwing the doors). This will ensure that the locking points of the door are correctly in place and reduce the risk of damage or warping.
repair scratch on composite door is also recommended to replace any composite doors that have an older locking mechanism to an updated Kite Marked high-security cylinder. This can greatly decrease the risk of your composite doors being broken into since they come with anti-drill, anti bump and anti-snap protection. Many insurers require this as part of your home insurance policy. If your composite doors were damaged during an attempted break-in It's highly recommended to contact a Locksmith to repair or replace the door as soon as possible to avoid further damage.