How to Fix a Composite Door Replacement Lock

Many homes have composite doors fitted for their attractive good looks, improved security and insulating properties. The majority of problems with composite doors result from a faulty mechanism, which can be corrected without having to replace the door.

A common issue is a lock that is sticky that occurs when it becomes difficult to put in or turn the key. You can solve this issue by lubricating the door lock's internal mechanisms.

Warped Doors

Composite doors are strong and reliable. They last for a long time. However this doesn't mean they are resistant to damage or issues. There are several problems with composite doors that can occur, including problems with warping and the inability of close or open your doors properly. Certain of these issues are easily fixed and others require more maintenance and work.

Warping is a problem for timber and composite doors. It occurs when materials change in shape and bend over time as a result of being exposed to humidity and temperature variations. This can make the door stiff and difficult to open or close and also impact its capability to function as an lock. One of the best ways to avoid warping is choosing a good composite door with an outer coating or finish that shields it from UV and moisture radiations.

Locks that stick are a common problem with composite doors. The lock mechanisms and handles can become covered in dirt, dust or other debris making it difficult to lock or unlock the door. In the worst case, it can lead to home security issues since it is easy for unauthorized individuals to gain access to your home. This can be avoided by cleaning your composite doors using a an abrasive rag and applying graphite or a silicone-based lubricant on them every six months.

Water can seep into your home when the drainage system inside your composite door becomes blocked. This usually happens because the weather seals have been dislodged over time and are no longer pushing firmly against their tracks. This problem can be prevented by checking that they are properly positioned and pushing them back in place.

In addition, the hinges on your composite doors may be weakened over time, leading them to become snag. This can be caused by a number of factors, including moisture changes and excessive heat as well as not closing the door in a proper manner. Re-adjusting the hinges with a flathead screwdriver, hex-key and Phillips-head screws will solve this issue. Applying a lithium-based grease the hinges will also aid in preventing this.

Faulty Locks

Composite doors are very strong and extremely durable. However, this doesn't mean that they are invulnerable to damage and problems. The issues, be it warping or swelling or keys that don't turn, could affect the security and performance of your door. Fortunately, many of these problems are easily fixed with the right tools and knowledge.

The problem with locks that are defective can affect uPVC and composite doors, although composite doors are more likely to suffer less of this issue than the case with a uPVC door due to the nature of their construction. In most cases, the lock could require replacement lock for composite door, or it could simply be a matter of changing the locking mechanism and making sure that the keyhole is lubricated. To prevent damage, you should apply graphite lubricants like WD-40, on the lock cylinder and the key.

If you're having trouble to open or close your composite door it could be because the locking points have become out of alignment. Or the lock mechanism could be faulty. In this instance 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 correctly.

The main cause of an ineffective lock on a composite door is the swelling of the material used to make the doors. This is caused by the increase in humidity or damp conditions. The locking mechanisms may not be able to engage properly.

This can then result in doors becoming difficult to open and close, as well as placing your home security at risk.

It is important to establish the habit of 'throwing the handle when locking and closing your doors made of composite. This will engage all the locking points along the door, not only rely on the latch at the center which can leave the top and bottom of your composite doors vulnerable to swelling and warping. This will not only guarantee that the lock is engaged but also improve the energy efficiency of the door.

Sticky Locks

Locks that stick are a common issue that can affect any door. The good news is that this frequent problem can be resolved quickly and easily with a few simple steps. These suggestions will help you keep your composite door replacement lock in good working order.

One of the main reasons why locks become sticky is because the internal components are worn out. Over time, the metal surfaces on the pins as well as springs of the tumblers' springs and pins begin to wear down, which causes friction and dirt to build up. This gunk can make it difficult to turn the key, and can also cause damage to the lock.

Utilizing a Teflon or PTFE based lubricant or powdered graphite can help to prevent these problems. WD-40 Dry Lube is a popular choice and is available in most DIY stores. Simply use the straw in the can to apply a small amount of oil directly into the lock mechanism. Then, slide the key in and out of the lock several times to spread the lubricant across the entire lock. After applying the lubricant clean off any excess so that it doesn't attract dirt and dust.

Another crucial aspect to take into consideration is how you shut your composite door. The door being slammed or placing too excessive pressure on the handle can cause the lock mechanism to wear out faster, causing it to stick. Keep the door open for extended periods of time to increase the moisture in the house and lead to warping and mould.

While it is easy to take the locks on your composite door for granted, as long as they function properly It is essential to regularly maintain them in order to ensure they continue function properly. These suggestions will help you keep your new composite door replacement lock in good working condition and ensure that your home stays secure. If you find that your locks aren't operating as they should, it's always best to call in an expert locksmith to seek assistance and advice. They'll be able to inspect the lock and recommend the best way to address the issue and even repair or replace it.

Key Won't turn

Composite doors have a chic modern design and provide increased security and insulation. 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 good shape. The majority of minor issues with composite doors can be fixed relatively easily like sticky doors or misaligned ones.

In many cases, composite doors become difficult to lock or open due to an ill-fitting frame, expansion caused by changes in weather conditions, or due to ageing of the mechanism inside. In such cases the most frequent solutions consist of changing the strike plate as well as hinges to ensure that they fit comfortably within the frame and are able to be opened and locked quickly. You may also have to clean the locking mechanism to eliminate any obstructions.

If the key won't rotate in the lock, then the internal locking mechanism could be defective. It must be replaced. 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 a reasonable cost.

The best way to avoid problems like this is to keep the hardware and the door frame in good condition. It is crucial to clean them frequently to get rid of dirt and grime, and then apply the lubricant. If you are using a lubricant make sure that it is specifically designed for doors and locks to prevent further damage.

Another preventive measure to make is to always put the handle upwards when closing a composite (also known as throwing the doors). This will ensure that the locking points of the door are correctly engaged and reduce the risk of damage or warping.

It is also recommended to replace any old composite door hinge replacement doors with a high-security Kite Marked cylinder. This will reduce the likelihood of your door being broken into because it is anti-drilling, anti-bumping and anti-snap protection. Many insurance companies now require this as a part of your home insurance policy. If your composite door handle replacement doors have been damaged in an attempted burglary, it's highly advisable to get in touch with an Locksmith for repair or replacement as soon as you can to prevent further damage.