How to Fix a Composite Door Replacement Lock
Many homes have composite doors for their stylish good looks with improved security and insulation properties. The majority of problems with these types of doors are caused by a malfunctioning mechanism, and can usually be fixed without the need to replace your composite door.
A locked that is sticky is a frequent issue that occurs when it is difficult to insert or turn the key. This can be easily resolved by oiling the internal mechanisms of your door lock.
Warped Doors
Composite doors are extremely durable, reliable and long-lasting but that doesn't mean they're impervious to damage or issues. There are several common issues with composite doors that can arise, including warping and the inability to open or close your doors in a proper manner. Some of these issues are fixable, while others require more maintenance and work.
Composite and timber doors are susceptible to warping, which happens when the materials bend and change shape over time because of exposure to different temperatures and moisture. This can cause the door to become stiff and difficult to open or close and may also affect its capability to be used as locks. One way to prevent warping is by choosing a good composite door that has a coating or finish that shields it from moisture and UV rays.
Another common issue with composite doors is sticking locks. The lock mechanism and handles can become coated with dirt, dust or other debris making it difficult to lock or unlock the door. In the worst case, this can lead to home security concerns as it's simple for unauthorized people to gain access to your home. This can be avoided by cleaning your composite doors with the help of a damp rag, and then applying graphite lubricant to them every six months.
Water can seep into your home when the drainage system inside your composite door becomes blocked. This is usually the result of the weather seals getting dislodged over time. This means they aren't pushing strongly against the track. Checking that they are correctly positioned and pushing them back in place can help prevent this issue.
In addition, the hinges on your composite doors may drop over time, causing them to become snag. This could be due various reasons, like moisture changes, excessive heating and not closing the doors correctly. To fix this issue, simply adjust the hinges using a hex key, Phillips-head screwdriver or flathead screwdriver. Applying a lithium-based grease the hinges will also help prevent this.
Faulty Locks
Composite doors are sturdy and durable. However, this doesn't mean that they are impervious to damage and issues. Whether it's warping, swelling or a lock that isn't turning, these issues can impact the security of your door and its performance. Fortunately, a lot of these issues can be easily repaired using the right tools and experience.
A problem with locks that are not working is a problem for both uPVC doors as well as composite doors. Composite doors, however, tend to be less prone to problems than uPVC doors due to their construction. The lock itself may need to be replaced or it could be a matter of changing the locking mechanism and oiling the keyhole. To prevent damage, it's best to apply graphite lubricants such as 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 moved out of alignment or the mechanism has gone out of date. In this instance it is crucial to contact a locksmith to ensure that the door and lock are in the correct position.
The main cause of the problem with a lock that is defective on a composite door stems from the swelling of the material used to make the doors. This is usually caused by an increase in humidity or damp conditions. This can result in the locking mechanisms not being able to engage properly.
This could lead to doors becoming difficult to open or close, and can put your home's security at risk.
To avoid this issue, it's important to develop the habit of 'throwing' the handle every time you close and locking your composite door. This will engage all the locking points along the door and not just rely on the latch in the middle 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 working but also increase the energy efficiency of the door.
Sticky Locks
Locks that are stuck are a frequent problem that can affect any type of door. This problem is quickly and easily solved by following a few easy steps. These tips will keep your door lock that is made of composite in good condition.
One of the primary reasons that a lock will become sticky is because the internal components are wearing out. Over time, the metal surfaces of the springs, pins, and tumblers begin to deteriorate, causing friction and a build-up of dirt and grime. composite door frame repair can make it difficult to turn the key, and can also cause damage to the lock.
Using a powdered graphite or a Teflonor PTFE-based lubricant can help avoid these issues. Dry Lube from WD-40 is a favorite and is available in most DIY stores. Use the straw of the bottle to apply some lubricant into the lock mechanism. Then, slide the key through the lock several times to spread the lubricant across the entire lock. Be sure to wipe off any excess lubricant afterward so that it doesn't attract more dirt and debris.
Another crucial aspect to take into consideration is the way you close your composite door. By pounding the door or applying too excessive pressure on the handle could wear out the lock mechanism faster, causing it to stick. Also, keeping the door open for long periods of time can increase the moisture levels in the home, which can cause mould or warping of the door and frame.
It's easy to forget about the locks on your composite doors, provided they work properly. But it's important to check them regularly to ensure they're functioning properly. These tips will ensure your new composite replacement lock is in good working order and your home is safe. If you notice that your locks aren't functioning as they should, it's always recommended to contact an expert locksmith to seek assistance and advice. They will be able to examine the lock and suggest the best method to correct the issue such as repair or replacement.
Key Won't Turn
Composite doors offer a stylish and modern look with enhanced security and insulation properties. They also come with a wide variety of colors and finishes to match your home's style and personality. While composite doors are designed to be durable but they require regular maintenance to ensure they are in top condition. Fortunately that the majority of minor problems with composite doors can be fixed relatively easily for instance, sticky locks or misaligned doors.
Often, composite doors become difficult to lock or open due to a poorly-fitting frame, expansion caused by weather changes, or due to aging of the internal mechanism. In such cases, the most common fixes involve changing the strike plate as well as hinges to ensure that they fit comfortably within the frame and can be opened and locked easily. It is also possible to clean the inside of the locking mechanism to clear any obstructions.
If the key will not rotate in the lock, then the internal locking mechanism may be defective. It must be replaced. This requires expert Locksmith assistance. Christopher the Locksmith provides a quick and easy service, providing you with locks that are similar to yours at a reasonable cost.
The best method to avoid these issues is to keep the door frame and hardware in good working order. This means cleaning them regularly to get rid of dirt and grime, as well as applying a lubricant to the hinges and lock mechanism. To avoid further damage, make use of a lubricant designed specifically for doors and locks.
Another preventive measure you can take is to always place the handle upwards when closing the door using a composite (also called throwing the doors). This will ensure that the locking points of the door are correctly engaged and will reduce the chance of damage or warping.
It is also recommended to replace any composite doors that have an older locking mechanism to the latest Kite Marked high-security cylinder. This will decrease the chance of your composite door being broken into as it has anti-drilling, Anti-bumping and anti-snap security. A lot of insurers require this as a part of your home insurance policy. If your composite doors were damaged during an attempted burglary, it's highly advisable to contact a Locksmith for repair or replacement immediately to avoid further damage.
