How to Fix a Composite Door Replacement Lock

Many homes have composite doors fitted for their stylish good looks, improved security and insulating properties. The majority of issues with these doors are caused by a defective mechanism and can typically be corrected without having to replace your composite door.

A locked that is sticky is a frequent issue that is caused by difficult to insert or turn the key. You can fix this problem by lubricating your door lock's internal mechanisms.

Warped Doors

Composite doors are extremely robust, reliable and durable, but it doesn't mean they're immune to damage or problems. Inability to open your doors correctly are two of the most common problems that come with composite doors. Certain of these issues are easily fixed however others require more work and maintenance.

Warping is a problem for timber and composite doors. This occurs when the materials change shape and bend over time as a result of being exposed to moisture and varying temperatures. This can make the door stiff and difficult to close or open and may also affect its ability to function as an lock. One of the best ways to avoid warping is selecting a high-quality composite door with an outer coating or finish which shields it from UV rays.

The problem of stuck locks is a typical problem for composite doors. The lock mechanism and handles may become coated with dust, dirt or other debris, making it difficult to lock or unlock the door. In the worst scenario, this can cause home security issues as it is easy for unauthorised individuals to gain access to your home. Cleaning your composite doors regularly using a damp, clean cloth and applying a silicone or graphite-based lubricant every 6 months will keep this from occurring.

The drainage systems in your composite doors could also be blocked, which causes water to enter your home. This usually happens because the weather seals have been dislodged and no longer pushing hard against their track. This issue can be avoided by ensuring that they are properly positioned and pushing them back in the correct position.

In addition, the hinges on your composite door panel replacement doors may fall over time, causing them to snag. This could be due to a number of reasons, such as moisture changes, excessive heat and not closing the door correctly. Re-adjusting the hinges with a hex-key, flathead screwdriver and Phillips-head screws will solve this issue. Applying a lithium-based oil to the hinges will also help prevent this.

Locks that aren't working

Composite doors are strong and durable. This doesn't mean they won't be damaged or experience issues. These issues, whether it's warping or swelling or keys that don't turn, can affect the security and performance of your door. Many of these problems can be fixed using the proper tools.

The problem of defective locks is a concern for both uPVC doors as well as composite doors. Composite doors are, however, more likely to have fewer problems than uPVC doors due to their construction. Often, the lock itself might require replacement, or it could simply be a matter of adjusting the locking mechanism and making sure that the keyhole is lubricated. It is important to use lubricants made of graphite on the lock and key cylinder, as opposed to oils-based ones such as WD-40, to prevent damage to these parts.

If your new composite door is difficult to open and close it's likely that the locking points have moved out of alignment or the mechanism has deteriorated. In this situation it is crucial to contact a locksmith to ensure that the door and lock are in the correct place.

The primary reason for an ineffective lock on a composite door stems from the swell of the material used to construct the doors. This is usually due to an increase in humidity or damp conditions. This could result in locking mechanisms not working properly.

This can lead to the doors becoming difficult to open and close, while putting your home security at risk.

To help avoid this issue, it's important to get into 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 rely on the latch in the middle which could leave the top and bottom of your composite door repair doors susceptible to warping and swelling. This will not only guarantee that the lock is in place but also improve the energy efficiency of the door.

Sticky Locks

A lock that is stuck is an issue that can happen on any door. The good part is that this typical issue can be fixed quickly and easily with some simple steps. These suggestions will help you keep your composite door replacement lock in good working condition.

One of the primary reasons why locks get sticky is because the internal components are getting worn out. Over time, the metal surfaces of the pins, springs and tumblers begin to deteriorate, causing 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 Teflon- or PTFE-based lubricant can help prevent these problems. Dry lubricant WD-40 is a very popular choice and can be found at a variety of DIY stores. Make use of the straw in the can to put the lubricant in a small amount into the lock mechanism. Then, slide the key through the lock repeatedly to spread the lubricant around the entire lock. Be sure to wipe off any excess grease afterward, to ensure it doesn't attract dirt and debris.

Closing your composite door is an additional important factor. By pounding the door or applying too excessive pressure on the handle can cause the lock mechanism to wear out faster, which can cause it to stick. Keep the door open for prolonged periods of time to increase the moisture in the house and cause mould and warping.

It's easy to forget about the locks on your composite doors, as long as they work correctly. But it's important to keep them maintained regularly to ensure they're functioning properly. These tips will help you keep your new composite door replacement lock in good working condition and ensure that your home stays safe. If you find that your locks aren't operating as they should, it's best to call in a professional locksmith for advice and assistance. They can examine the lock to determine the most effective solution to fix or replacement.

Key won't turn

Composite doors have a chic modern design and provide enhanced security and insulation. They are available in a variety of colors and finishes to match your home's personality and decor. While composite doors are built to last, they do require regular maintenance to keep them in top condition. Fortunately that the majority of minor issues with composite doors can be resolved relatively easily, such as locked doors that are stuck or not aligned.

Many composite doors are difficult to lock or open because of a poorly-fitting frame, weather conditions or the aging of the mechanism inside. In these cases the most common solution is to adjust the hinges and strike plate to ensure that they fit snugly into the frame and are easily closed and opened. You may also have to clean the locking mechanism to eliminate any obstructions.

If the key won't turn inside the lock, the internal locking mechanism could be defective. It must be replaced. This requires expert Locksmith assistance. Christopher the Locksmith offers a quick, convenient service that includes replacement locks of the same quality at affordable costs.

Keep the door's frame and hardware in good condition to avoid problems. This means regularly cleaning them to remove dirt and grime, as well as applying a lubricant to the hinges and lock mechanism. When using a lubricant, ensure that it is specifically designed for locks and doors to prevent further damage.

Another crucial preventive measure is to always put the handle on when closing the door with a composite (sometimes referred to throwing the door) This helps ensure that the locking points are properly engaged, thereby reducing the risk of damage and warping.

It is also recommended to replace any old composite doors with a security Kite Marked cylinder. This will greatly reduce the chance of your composite doors being smashed into because they come with anti-drill, anti bump and anti-snap safety. Many insurers now require this as part of your home insurance policy. If your composite doors are damaged during an attempted break-in it is recommended to contact a Locksmith immediately to repair or replace it to prevent further damage.