How to Fix a Composite Door Replacement Lock
Many homes have composite doors installed due to their attractive appearance, security and insulation properties. The majority of problems with composite doors are caused by a defective mechanism, which can be corrected without replacing the door.
A lock that is sticky is a common issue that is caused by difficult to insert or turn the key. You can easily solve this issue by lubricating the door lock’s internal mechanisms.
Warped Doors
Composite doors are incredibly durable, reliable and long-lasting but that doesn’t mean they’re impervious to damage or issues. There are many problems with composite doors that can arise, including warping and inability to open or close your doors in a proper manner. Some of these problems are easily fixed, but others require more work and maintenance to resolve.
Composite and timber doors are prone to warping which is when the material is bent and change shape over time due to exposure to fluctuating temperatures and moisture. This can cause the door to be stiff and difficult to open or close, and it can also affect how well it works as an lock. The best method to avoid the warping of the composite door is to choose a high-quality composite door that has a coating or finish that protects the door from moisture and UV radiation.
Another common composite front door replacement door problem is sticking locks. This occurs when the locks’ mechanisms and handles get covered in dirt, dust or other debris that makes it difficult to open, shut or lock the door. In the worst case, this can lead to home security concerns as it’s easy for unauthorised people to gain access to your home. Cleaning your composite doors regularly with a damp cloth and applying a silicone or graphite-based lubricant every 6 months can help to keep this from happening.
The drainage systems inside your composite doors can also become blocked, causing water to seep into your home. This is usually the result of the weather seals getting dislodged over time, which means they aren’t pushing firmly against the track. Making sure they are properly positioned and pushing them back in place can help prevent this issue.
In addition, the hinges on your composite doors may fall over time, causing them to become snag. This can be caused by various factors, such as changes in moisture or excessive heat, as well as not closing the door properly. Adjusting the hinges using a flathead screwdriver, hex-key, and Phillips-head screws will solve the issue. In addition, applying a lithium-based lubricant on the hinges every 6 months can help to keep this from happening.
Faulty Locks
Composite doors are strong and durable. This does not mean that they will never break or experience issues. Whether it’s warping, swelling or a key that cannot turn, these issues can impact your door’s security and performance. Many of these issues can be easily fixed with the proper tools.
Faulty locks are a problem for both uPVC doors as well as composite doors. Composite doors tend to have fewer problems than uPVC doors due to their construction. It may be necessary to replace the lock, or simply alter the locking mechanism and lubricate the keyhole. To avoid damage, it is recommended to apply graphite-based lubricants, like WD-40, on the lock cylinder and the key.
If your new composite door lock replacement door is difficult to open and close, it’s likely that the locking points have moved out of alignment or the lock mechanism has become faulty. In this situation it’s crucial to speak with an expert locksmith to make sure that the door is in the correct position and that the lock works properly.
The primary reason for a defective lock on a door made of composite comes due to the expansion of the material used to make the doors. This is typically caused by an increase in humidity or damp conditions. It can result in the locking mechanisms not working correctly.
This can result in doors becoming difficult to open and close, as well as placing your home security at risk.
It is essential to develop the habit of throwing the handle when locking and closing your doors made of composite. This will engage all the different locking points down the door, and not rely on the latch in the middle which can cause the top and bottom of your composite door panel replacement doors susceptible to swelling and warping. While ensuring the lock is activated and secure, this will ensure the door is secure and improve its energy efficiency.
Sticky Locks
Sticky locks are a common problem that can affect any type of door. This common problem can be quickly and easily solved by following a few easy steps. These tips will help keep your composite door replacement lock in good working condition.
One of the primary reasons that a lock will become sticky is because the internal components are getting worn out. As time passes, the metal surfaces of the pins, springs, and tumblers begin to degrade, leading to friction and the accumulation of dirt and grime. This gunk can cause the key to be difficult to turn and could cause damage to the lock.
Using a powdered graphite or a Teflonbased lubricant, or PTFE, can help prevent these problems. Dry lubricant WD-40 is a very popular choice and is readily available at many DIY stores. Simply use the can’s straw to apply a small amount grease directly to the lock mechanism. Then, slide the key through the lock several times to spread the lubricant across the entire lock. After applying the lubricant wipe off any excess so it doesn’t attract dirt and dust.
Another important factor to consider is how you shut your composite door. The lock mechanism can be damaged faster if you slam the door or apply too much pressure on the handle. Keep the door open for long periods of time to increase the moisture in the house and lead to warping and mould.
It’s easy to forget about the locks on your doors made of composite, so long as they function correctly. However, it’s crucial to check them regularly to ensure they’re functioning properly. These suggestions will help you keep your new composite door replacement lock in good condition and make sure that your home is secure. It’s best to consult 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 modern look with enhanced security and insulation properties. They also provide a wide range of finishes and colours to match your home’s style and personality. Although composite doors are durable they require regular maintenance to stay in good shape. Fortunately most minor composite door problems can be repaired relatively easily for instance, locked doors that are stuck or not aligned.
Often, composite doors become difficult to lock or open because of a poor-fitting frame, expansion due to weather changes, or due to aging of the internal mechanism. In such cases the most frequent solutions involve altering the strike plate and hinges to ensure they sit snugly within the frame and can be locked and opened easily. It is also possible to clean the inside of the locking mechanism to clear any obstructions.
If the key won’t turn in the lock then the internal locking mechanism could be defective. It is required to be replaced. This requires professional Locksmith assistance. Christopher the Locksmith offers a fast and easy service, providing you with like-for-like replacement locks at a reasonable cost.
The best way to prevent these issues is to keep the hardware and the door frame in good condition. It is essential to clean them frequently to get rid of dirt and grime. Then apply an oil-based lubricant. If you are using a lubricant make sure it’s one that is specifically made for locks and doors to prevent further damage.
Another crucial preventive measure is to always put the handle up when closing a composite door (sometimes referred to throwing the door), this helps to ensure that the locking points are properly engaged, reducing the risk of damage and warping.
In the end, it is recommended to upgrade any existing composite doors fitted with an older locking mechanism by installing a new Kite Marked high-security cylinder. This will greatly reduce the chance of your doors being smashed into because they feature anti-drill, anti-bump and anti-snap safety. A lot of insurers require this as a part of your home insurance policy. If your doors made of composite have been damaged by an attempted burglary It’s highly recommended to get in touch with a Locksmith to repair or replace the door immediately to avoid further damage.
