After replacing the old balcony block with a plastic one, many are faced with the problem of closing the door from the outside. Manufacturers do not provide additional accessories; they are not included in the standard package. Installing a magnetic latch on a plastic balcony door will solve this problem.
Do-it-yourself fittings are installed according to the recommendations of specialists
Types of magnetic latches
The fittings are easy to install and use and have a simple design. You need to attach the magnetic latch to the balcony door using self-tapping screws; even a beginner can do this job. According to the installation method, fittings are divided into mortise and overhead.
According to the device, magnetic latches are distinguished:
- passive;
- built-in;
- electromagnetic structures.
When the door is closed, the magnet attracts the metal plate and holds the door.
Passive latches consist of a metal and a magnetic strip. The first is attached to the door leaf, and the second to the frame. This type of installation is the easiest to install.
The built-in design assumes the presence of handles. The latch is cut into the door leaf. Handles are installed on both sides of the door block. The magnetic part is attached to the frame.
The electromagnetic device is classified as a lock. The design is more complex, compared to similar clamps. Saves the balcony door from being broken into.
During operation, many users experience the door leaf shifting to the side, and problems immediately arise with the lock. The magnetic lock works even with a similar unit malfunction.
The fittings can be equipped with fastening consumables
In addition to installing magnetic latches, external methods of fixing the balcony door in the closed position are used. Screws or latches are used most often.
The clamps are easy to install and use and rarely fail
Situations arise in which it is necessary to install an external handle on the balcony door. There are several types of models.
The shell has the simplest design. This handle is mounted together with a magnetic latch. The compact but strong grip allows you to tightly pull the door leaf. The handle is painted to match the door.
Metal or plastic is used in the manufacture of fittings
Plastic fittings are exposed to ultraviolet rays and are quickly damaged. Replacing accessories is easy. To do this, unscrew the fasteners with a Phillips screwdriver or a screwdriver and attach the handle.
The double-sided handle is most convenient to use. Latches do not provide complete tightness for a balcony door, so in an apartment with smokers such models are most popular. The handle pulls the canvas tightly, cutting off the absorption of tobacco smoke into the room.
When closing, the eccentrics enter the striker and clamp the sealing contour
When choosing double-sided models, handles take into account the design of the balcony block and the profile, since some fittings are not compatible with the latter. The outer grip and socket should be small in width. This method will allow you to attach a narrower handle to the outside of the door block.
Installing double-sided fittings completely eliminates the need to install any type of latches. The handle eliminates the possibility of being locked out of the room on the balcony. When installing such accessories, safety is taken into account. If the loggia is not glazed, criminals can easily get into such a home.
Varieties
A latch for the type of door in question is an excellent solution that will not only prevent the door from slamming, but will also protect the glass from breaking or deformation. There are three options for such solutions. Each category has both its advantages and disadvantages.
On a magnet
If we talk about a magnetic solution, a similar mechanism is usually used in kitchen cabinets. Its convenience lies in the fact that such a latch can be mounted in place of the pin that is usually included with such solutions, and a magnetic tongue can be installed on the frame, which will hold the sash when closing. You can find several categories of similar latches on the market, but, as a rule, you usually find an L-shaped bar. It has holes through which it can be easily screwed to the door. Many models have holes in the same place as regular fittings, which makes attaching the bar quite simple. If the latches do not have fastenings, then they can be made using the simplest drill.
In order for the plank to be firmly fixed when the holes match 100% with those on the fittings, you can simply use slightly larger self-tapping screws. A housing is attached to the door frame, inside of which there are magnets. It is usually made of plastic and needs to be attached using self-tapping screws. This latch is very simple in terms of design, which ensures its high reliability. The latch prevents the magnets from rubbing against each other, which extends their service life.
On the video
Another interesting option is a roller-type mechanism. He will be in a special corps. Its reverse side will be supported by a spring. This device is placed at the end of the door to the balcony. It is worth noting that the roller can rotate. There is a special recess in the bar; when the roller is in it, it seems to go deeper into the structure and cannot return to its original position, which allows the door to be fixed. At the same time, opening the door is simple - you just need to push it a little.
It is the sash that cannot open due to the restraint of the spring. Rotary-type structures do not participate in opening, which makes the structure more durable. To install such a latch you need a screwdriver, drill and self-tapping screws. The highlight of such a mechanism will be the need to accurately select the location of the groove and the roller opposite each other. If this is not done, the mechanism will not work. If the roller is mounted crookedly or incorrectly, the door will not close at all. This type of fastener can break if handled incorrectly, which is why it requires proper installation. In addition, it must be periodically checked for damage or distortion.
False
Bevel latches are another fairly common category of mechanical latches. This option is considered traditional. It works in approximately the same way as a roller. The part fits into the recess, and a special spring does not allow it to come out without the use of mechanical force on the part of a person. To open the door normally in such a situation, you should install a special handle equipped with a rotating mechanism. And the bar must be mounted on the double-glazed window frame, after which the latch is placed on the door.
How to choose a magnetic latch for a balcony door
Before placing a magnet on a balcony door, it is important to analyze the segment of fittings on the market and compare the options. When choosing a retainer, pay attention to the following characteristics:
- manufacturer's brand;
- door size and width;
- cut-in length;
- strip width;
- magnet size.
Attention!
Magnetic latches are durable; during operation, it is necessary to wipe the outer parts from dust and dirt and perform a routine inspection. The fittings fail only when the elements are demagnetized. The standard PVC door block is equipped with a latch. When installing, experts recommend learning more about the locking mechanism and immediately installing the best option. The magnetic clamp is purchased from well-known brands. Check the certificate of conformity. The standard package usually includes:
- magnetic latch;
- bar
- screws;
- pens.
Depending on the model, some of the listed elements are purchased separately. When selecting strips, pay attention to the width of the profile; it should not be less than the width of the end of the door leaf. The most common sizes of planks are 9 mm, 13 mm, 18 mm.
Rules for choosing accessories
The fittings differ in terms of quality, but when choosing, it is better not to save money, as this will negatively affect the functionality and reliability of the entire plastic structure. It is also not recommended to purchase products from unknown manufacturers, since such parts do not always have:
- high operating period;
- good quality.
You need to purchase accessories from proven and most popular companies
Since fittings are not just a functional part, but also a decorative part of the structure, its appearance must be taken into account. The modern market offers a wide range of products that differ:
- high comfort;
- attractive appearance.
A plastic door must meet certain requirements.
- Provide protection against burglary.
- Withstand heavy load.
- Has high levels of comfort and stability during operation.
The fittings must match the style of the room
Based on these requirements, when choosing accessories you need to consider:
- door weight (the higher this indicator, the more reliable the fittings are required);
- opening method;
- the ability to adjust each element to improve the functionality of the entire structure.
An example of how a plastic door can open
All fittings are interconnected. This is not to say that one detail is more important than another. If one element fails, the functioning of the entire structure is disrupted. Taking into account all the recommendations presented, the plastic door and its fittings:
- will last as long as possible;
- will fail less often.
How to install a magnetic latch on a balcony door
Before starting installation work, prepare tools and materials. For work you will need a screwdriver, screws and a clamp. Installation of a magnet on a plastic balcony door begins with dismantling the existing panel and locking mechanism:
- Unscrew the screw closest to the handle on the door leaf.
- In place of the dismantled one, fasten the steel strip with a screwdriver using self-tapping screws. Element thickness 1 mm.
- Having closed the door a little, mark the boundaries at the end of the canvas.
- The magnetic part of the latch is attached to the door using self-tapping screws.
If, when purchasing the fittings, the dimensions of the old retainer were maintained, no additional marking work is done, but they are attached to the same place.
Important! Experts recommend purchasing a magnetic fastener that matches the dimensions of the installed fittings. However, if the latch is loose and the sockets have expanded, buy a larger or smaller latch for reliable installation.
A plastic door tends to bend when opening and closing, so misalignment may occur during operation
It is not necessary to install a false handle, but using the magnetic latch without it becomes extremely inconvenient. The shell is attached outside in a place convenient for use.
Like any mechanism, the latch is supplied with instructions for use. If the fittings are used correctly, the plug will last a long time. The skew of the door leaf does not affect the operation of the magnetic latch.
The window does not open: what to do?
As you probably understand, before taking action, you must first determine the cause of the breakdown. In most cases, it is the fittings that fail. That is, the window does not open due to some malfunction of the fittings.
First, try to do some basic steps that may help open the problem window. Press the window sash and at the same time try to rotate the handle to a horizontal position. Under no circumstances should you put too much pressure on her. This can damage the fittings. If the window does not budge, the window lock may be jammed. Here you need to accurately establish the cause. If you do not know how to do this, then, of course, it is better to seek help from professionals. Consult our specialists on this issue right now.
If the reason is in the hinges, then they need to be thoroughly lubricated and the position of the sash adjusted.
Important. It is worth noting that each brand of fittings requires an individual approach when it comes to repair or adjustment
That is why, in most cases, the most correct solution would be to use the services of experienced specialists who will be able to determine the cause of the breakdown and eliminate the problem in the shortest possible time.
If you are prevented from opening a jammed window because it was initially installed incorrectly, then only dismantling the window and reinstalling it will help. What to do in this case? The most correct decision would be to contact the company that installed these same windows.
If the company is reliable and its name is important to it, then it will definitely meet you halfway. This is why it is so important to order the installation of plastic windows from a trusted company.
If the window handle is difficult to turn, and the operation of the fittings is accompanied by creaking and crackling noises, then a full inspection is definitely needed, cleaning the mechanism from dirt, lubrication and adjustment.
Very important advice. It happens that a new house shrinks a lot. Sometimes window adjustments are powerless. In some cases, even dismantling and subsequent installation will not help. That is why do not rush to buy new windows immediately after moving into a new building. There is a possibility that they will have to be thrown away later.
Recommendations from experts
When choosing a magnetic latch, experts recommend finding out how much force is required to open the door. If this parameter is minimal, the fit to the frame will be weak. A slight wind will cause the door block to swing open. If the value is high, the pressure of the plates will be loud and similar to cotton. In addition, this will ensure rapid wear of the seals.
Most models fit the profile parameters. However, when choosing, you should ask the sellers about the compatibility of designs.
In order for the shell handle to last longer, experts recommend gripping not in one area, but changing the position of the hand each time. Constant change of traction prevents breakdown.
If for some reason a person finds himself locked on a balcony, experts recommend not pulling the handle, pushing or hitting the door. These actions inevitably lead to deformation of the door block. And in the future it will generally complicate opening and lead to the need to completely replace the fittings. In such situations, experts advise dismantling the double-glazed window. If it is not possible to carry out the work, then break the lower plastic insert. Replacing a sandwich panel will cost less than installing a new door block.
If, after installing a magnetic latch, the door opens due to a draft, install a second one.
To prevent the door leaf from swinging open due to a slight wind, adjustments are made. With the doors closed, washers are placed between the bar and the counter part.
When choosing a double-sided handle for a balcony door, preference is given to multi-point designs. Such models are equipped with a button or key. If necessary, the door is blocked, which increases the security of the room and prevents intruders from entering the apartment from the loggia.
Preventive inspection of the latch is carried out twice a year: in spring and autumn. No lubrication of the mechanism is required. It is necessary to wipe the latch from dust and dirt with a dry cloth.
For smokers, the use of a magnetic latch is simplified compared to analogues. Mechanical fittings must be held so that the door does not open, and magnetic fittings keep the door closed so that it will not open due to wind.
To ensure a tighter fit, experts recommend installing 2-3 latches at once at different heights. This way the position of the door block will be much tighter and no tobacco smoke will leak out.
The magnetic latch does not require special care, is simple and easy to use. Hardware failures rarely occur. The latch operates without a sharp loud sound, with a smooth movement.
Possible problems and troubleshooting
With magnetic balcony latches, the question of adjustment does not actually arise. Rather, this applies to locks with a mechanical lock.
The most common cause is a weakening spring located on the back of the roller or ball. In this case, you should unscrew the part of the mechanism in which the rotating element is fixed, pull it out, then remove the spring and try to stretch it slightly.
Then reassemble. If your efforts do not bring the desired result, you should try placing one or more washers of suitable thickness under the spring.
Another problem may occur when, due to sagging or distortion of the door frame, the fixing element no longer fits into the groove of the strike plate. In this case, you should first try to adjust the fastening of the hinges, eliminating the resulting distortion or sagging. If this does not help, you will have to reinstall the fixing bar with the groove.
Balcony repair
Arranging a balcony is not an important stage in renovating an apartment. It may also have its original appearance. In this case, it is used to ventilate the apartment or dry clothes. But there is one detail without which its use is not possible - this is the door. It protects the apartment from cold in winter, from dust, street noise and other negative factors in summer. This is the case when the balcony is not glazed. If a frame with glass is installed on it, then the door allows you to separate it from another room. Performs the function of an interior room.
PVC doors are mainly used for balconies. They are easy to install, wear-resistant, durable and reliable. In addition, this design is lightweight, which is perfect for such openings. The door kit includes the leaf and the frame to which it will be attached. As for the accessories, you need to purchase them yourself. Thus, choose the one that you like the most.
