How to Fix a Composite Door Replacement Lock

Many homes have composite door installed because of their chic appearance, security and insulation 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, which occurs when it becomes difficult to put it in or turn the key. This can be easily resolved by oiling the internal mechanisms of your door lock.

Warped Doors

Composite doors are incredibly robust, reliable and durable, but it doesn't mean they're immune to damage or issues. There are a variety of problems with composite doors that can arise, including warping and inability to open or close your doors correctly. 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 materials bend and change shape due to exposure to fluctuating temperatures and moisture. This could cause the door to be stiff and difficult to open or close, and it could also affect how it functions as an lock. One of the best ways to avoid warping is choosing a good composite door with an outer coating or finish that protects it from UV and moisture rays.

Locks that stick are a common problem for composite doors. This happens when the lock mechanisms and handles become coated in dust, dirt or other debris, making it difficult to open, shut or lock the door. In the worst of cases this could lead to security issues for your home 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 fluid every six months will help stop this from occurring.

The water can get into your home when the drainage system inside the door is blocked. This is typically because the weather seals have been dislodged over time and are not pushing as hard against their tracks. Making sure they are properly placed and then pushing them back into their place will help to prevent this issue.

The hinges on your composite doors could drop over time and cause them to get caught. This could be due to many factors, including moisture changes or excessive heat, as well as not closing the door properly. Re-adjusting the hinges with the help of a hex-key, flathead screwdriver and Phillips-head screws will solve this issue. 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 will never break or have problems. These issues, whether warping or swelling or even a key that won’t turn, can affect the security and performance of your door. Fortunately, a lot of these issues are easily fixed with the right tools and knowledge.

A damaged lock can affect uPVC and composite doors, although composite doors typically experience less of this issue than the case with a uPVC door due to the nature of their construction. It could be necessary to replace the lock or simply alter the locking mechanism, and lubricate the keyhole. It is important to use graphite-based lubricants on the lock and key cylinder, as opposed to oil-based ones like WD-40, to prevent damage to these components.

If you are having difficulty to open or close your composite door it could be because the locking points have become out of alignment. The mechanism of the lock could be faulty. In this situation it is crucial to call a locksmith to make sure that the lock and door are in the correct position.

The most common cause of the malfunctioning lock in a composite door is the expansion of the material used to make the doors. This is caused by the increase in humidity or damp conditions. The locking mechanism may not engage correctly.

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

It's important to develop the habit of 'throwing the handle' when closing and locking your doors made of composite. This will engage all the different locking points down the door, and not rely on the latch in the centre which could cause the top and bottom of your composite doors susceptible to swelling and warping. This will not only ensure that the lock is working but also increase the energy efficiency of the door.

Sticky Locks

A locked that is sticky is an issue that can happen at any door. The good part is that this typical problem can be solved quickly and easily by following the steps below. These tips will help you keep your composite door replacement lock in good condition.

One of the primary reasons why locks get sticky is because the internal components are worn out. Over time, the metal surfaces on the pins and springs of the tumblers' springs and pins begin to wear down, which causes friction and dirt to accumulate. This gunk can cause the key to be difficult to turn, and may cause damage to the lock.

Using a powdered graphite or a Teflon- or PTFE-based lubricant can help prevent these problems. Dry Lube WD-40 is a favorite and is available in most DIY stores. Simply use the can's straw to apply a small amount oil directly into the lock mechanism. Slide your key into and out of the lock several times to distribute the lubricant throughout the lock. After applying the lubricant, wipe off any excess so it does not attract dirt and other debris.

Another important factor to consider is how you shut your composite door. Slamming the door or putting too much pressure on the handle may wear out the lock mechanism faster, which can cause it to stick. Keep the door open for long 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 properly. However, it's essential to check them regularly to ensure they continue to function correctly. These suggestions will help you keep your new composite door replacement lock in good condition and ensure that your home remains safe. It's best to consult a professional locksmith if you find that your locks aren't functioning as they should. They will be able to inspect the lock and recommend the best course of action to address the issue, including repair or replacement.

Key Won't turn

composite door panel replacement doors give a sleek and modern appearance with enhanced security and insulation properties. They also come with a wide range of finishes and colours to suit your home's decor and personality. Although composite doors are made to be durable however, they require regular maintenance to keep them in top condition. The majority of minor issues with composite front door replacement doors can be resolved fairly easily, such as the doors that are stuck or not aligned.

Many composite doors are difficult to lock or open due to a poorly fitting frame, weather changes or the aging of the mechanism inside. In these instances, the most common fixes include adjusting the strike plate and hinges to ensure that they fit snugly within the frame and can be locked and opened easily. It is also possible to clean the inner locking cylinder to remove any obstructions.

If the key will not turn in the lock then the internal locking mechanism may be faulty. It is required to be replaced. This is an issue that requires expert Locksmith assistance. Christopher the Locksmith offers a fast and easy service, providing you with similar locks at competitive prices.

Keep the door's frame and hardware clean to avoid these problems. This means cleaning them regularly to remove dirt and grime, and applying a lubricant on the hinges and lock mechanism. To avoid further damage, make use of a lubricant designed specifically for doors and locks.

Another crucial preventive measure is to always put the handle on when closing a composite door (sometimes known as throwing the door), this helps to ensure that the locking points are properly engaged, reducing the chance of warping and damage.

It is also recommended to replace any composite doors fitted with an older locking mechanism with the latest Kite Marked high-security cylinder. This will decrease the chance of your composite door hinge replacement door being smashed into, because it is anti-drilling, anti-bumping and anti-snap protection. Many insurance companies require this as a part of your home's insurance. If your composite doors have been damaged by an attempted burglary It is highly recommended to contact a Locksmith for repair scratch on composite door or replacement as soon as possible to prevent further damage.