Hello readers! I don’t write much about doors and door hardware in particular. But we receive many questions about certain locks for plastic doors, the nuances of selection and repair. That's why this article was born.
First of all, it will be useful to those who have decided to replace an old lock and are looking for a new one. Below I will tell you what types of locks there are, how they differ, and, of course, how you can repair an old lock so as not to replace it with a new one. I hope the information will be useful.
Features of locks for PVC doors
It is impossible to embed a locking mechanism designed for a metal, wooden, or any other door into plastic; such an operation is guaranteed to damage the door leaf. In this regard, there are special locks on the market for doors made of plastic. Such devices have a special body size that matches the width of the profile, which allows the locking mechanism not to rest against the glass unit or filler.
As a rule, mortise locks are installed in plastic panels, which allows you to maintain the attractive and aesthetic appearance of the entire structure. However, if there is a need to provide additional protection against burglary, rim locks can also be installed.
Where are the locks installed?
The lock (its locking device) can be either separately located - not combined with the door locking mechanism, or integrated into the locking device, which makes its use more convenient and does not require any design changes to the door.
The first time a lock is used is extremely rare. Requires a change in the door design and is practically not used in plastic balcony doors.
The second one is widespread and there are a lot of manufacturers who produce replacement balcony handles with a built-in lock.
The lock can be installed both outside and on the side of the room. Usually it is enough to install only from the side of the room. Moreover, the lock may not be fully functional, but have a push-button or leaf lock, which prevents the door handle from turning, both from the living room and from the outside.
If the goal is to prevent a child or animal from opening the lock, this is quite enough, but if we are talking about protecting against unauthorized entry through the balcony, of course, it is better and more reliable to use a cylinder mechanism with keys.
In this case, you can open the door with a key from the side of the balcony, and from the side of the room it is locked either with a push-button or a leaf lock. This scheme is also used very rarely, since it is meaningless.
Exceptionally rare cases when the entrance to a room is arranged through a balcony - rather relates to the commercial use of premises on the first floors of buildings, when balconies are converted into vestibules or additional space.
Types of locks installed on PVC doors
There are many types of locking mechanisms on the market.
When choosing them, it is necessary to proceed from where the blade is installed, what requirements are imposed on the reliability of the lock and many other factors. As already noted, the lock on a plastic door can be either mortise or padded. Locking devices may differ in various design features that determine their functionality. Let's look at the main types of locking mechanisms installed on plastic doors.
Single-point locks have only one locking point and do not provide reliable protection and a tight fit of the door to the leaf. The door does not fit tightly, since the single-point lock presses it only at the insertion point, that is, exactly in the middle of the structure.
Multi-point locks are a locking mechanism used to securely lock plastic doors with two or more points to achieve the greatest burglary protection. The locks have two or more points of contact with the box (two or more locks), which ensures the reliability of the structure, as well as the tight fit of the canvas to the box.
The locking devices are separated from each other and are driven by a special movable tire. Thanks to this design and the tight fit of the canvas to the frame, excellent sound insulation is achieved. In addition, heat does not escape from the room.
The locking mechanism does not allow the canvas to sag and the structure does not become loose. The considered locks for plastic doors are equipped with a standard type cylinder or levers.
Depending on the material of manufacture, locks for plastic doors can be partially plastic or completely metal. Metal options are the most widespread because they have greater strength and improved consumer qualities. It is recommended to choose metal.
Depending on the type of locking mechanism (single-lock or multi-lock), the options for locks and latches differ. The single-locking mechanism is equipped with a latch and a bolt, a latch and a roller, or a separate bolt and a latch.
The first option works as follows: when you turn the handle, the trunnions enter the corresponding strips and the canvas is pressed against the box. The key extends the bolt and locks the lock.
Multi-locking mechanisms are divided into two main types: driven by a handle or driven by a cylinder
The second option simultaneously extends the trunnions and closes the bolt when turning the key. There are also lever and cylinder locks. The lever lock contains steel plates that are moved using protrusions on the key. Such locking mechanisms are more reliable than cylinder ones.
The cylinder lock works on a different principle. A larva is installed inside it, in which the pins are located. When you turn the key, the required combination is formed and the mechanism opens. A cylinder lock is easier and cheaper to replace, since only the cylinder needs to be replaced, while a lever lock requires replacing the entire mechanism.
There are also electronic and electromagnetic locking mechanisms. A distinctive feature of such locks is a special opening and locking mechanism. In order to open the lock, an electromagnetic pulse is required, which will turn off the magnet. Such options are used in sports clubs and office premises. When opening and closing, the mechanism does not wear out, which ensures its long-lasting operation.
An interesting feature of some electronic locks for plastic doors is that they can transmit information to a computer device about who, when and how many times entered the room. For this purpose, special electronic keys are programmed, the use of which is monitored by the system. This function can be used to find out if an organization's employees are late.
This locking mechanism is compact and is an excellent replacement for the conventional mechanical version. A special feature of an electromechanical lock for a plastic door is that it can be opened using an electronic key, a control panel, or a regular key.
Algorithm of operation of Roto DoorSafe 600 locks
Closing (drive) of the lock can be done in two ways - with a handle or with a key, the client chooses the option that is convenient for him.
Key driven
Roto DoorSafe C locks with a key drive are locked when the key is turned - at this moment, locking occurs at all points at once.
Until the key is turned in the lock, the door is kept closed only by the central latch. It can be opened by pressing the handle both from inside and outside.
Photo: Roto door lock drive from a cylinder *In this version of the lock, a door that is not locked with a key will not fit tightly to the frame and there may be air blowing in the corners of the door.
The cost of a lock without a cylinder and a handle for a door 2 meters high with extensions and 4 mushroom-shaped pins made in Turkey starts from 3,000 rubles; multi-point locks driven by a cylinder of European brands cost from 5,000 rubles.
Handle drive
Locks of the Roto DoorSafe H modification have a two-stage operating principle:
The lock and all additional locks are locked when the handle is lifted up 45° from the inside or outside.
Photo: Roto door lock drive from the handle* Complete locking of the lock and handle occurs after turning the key.
The handle-driven door is always pressed tightly against the frame and ensures complete tightness and high thermal insulation.
The cost of a multi-point lock driven by a handle without a cylinder and a handle for a door 2 meters high with extensions and 4 mushroom-shaped pins starts from 800 rubles, while locks of European brands in the retail network have a price from 3000 rubles.
What type of lock should I choose?
The choice of a lock for plastic doors is made depending on what goals the consumer is pursuing. The first selection criterion is the size of the lock, which is determined by the type of door into which it will be built. Once the size is determined, you can decide which lock is needed - single-point or multi-point.
A single-point lock for a plastic door is installed in those leaves that separate rooms inside a building where burglary protection is not required and there are no temperature changes. In a situation where a closer is not installed, you should install a door with a latch, additionally selecting a push mechanism.
When installing a closer, you should choose a latch with a roller mechanism so that you do not have to set the closer to make a strong bang when closing the door. With this arrangement, you won’t need a push handle; a regular one will do. The door will be locked in the closed position thanks to the closer, and not the roller.
A multi-point lock on plastic doors is installed if the door is located between a cold and warm room, and also when it serves as an external door. If the door is not properly pressed, drafts cannot be avoided.
If the door is installed as an external door, it will not be able to withstand sub-zero temperatures when using a single-locking device. Ice will accumulate on the lower and upper corners, the pressure at the edges will worsen, but in the center it will remain the same, as a result the canvas will be subject to deformation. With the help of additional trunnions, the multi-locking mechanism will much better press the blade along its entire height.
Electronic lock type
A new type of lock that has appeared on the market relatively recently. To open such a lock, a remote control, key fob, electronic card or chip are used.
Such a lock is usually installed on a plastic door when designing a private house.
The main advantage of such a mechanism is its ease of use. It is believed that such locking devices are quite reliable. But at the moment of a power outage, the door will become an insurmountable barrier.
A distinctive point is the ability to transfer information to a computer about the number of visits. Such systems are still used in large companies and factories, which allows you to find out which employee arrived and left at what time.
Installation of locks
It is important not only to choose the right lock for a plastic door, but also to install it correctly.
If the installation technology is not followed, problems with the operation of the mechanism will begin and the lock will not perform its main function. The best solution is to entrust the work to a professional who is well versed in the process, knows the technology for installing locks and the design of a specific mechanism. An ordinary consumer is unlikely to be able to quickly and without practical training master the process of installing a lock for a plastic door, so it is better not to waste energy and nerves and entrust the work to a professional.
As an important nuance, it should be noted that replacing a lock is not difficult, unlike its installation, which is due to the design features. The procedure can be easily performed independently using a regular screwdriver.
To summarize, it should be noted that the correct choice of a lock for a plastic door depends on the conditions under which it will be used. If the choice is made correctly and the installation is done efficiently, the mechanism will serve for many years without breakdowns.
Source: o-dveryah.ru/zamki/dlya-plastikovykh/
Sealing small cracks
To repair cracks and scratches you will need a cleaner, filler and liquid plastic.
Instructions:
- Defects, cracks and the area around should be washed with soapy water and wiped dry.
- Next, the defect is treated with a cleaner. You don't need much of it since it acts as soil.
- We fill the defect with liquid plastic and level the surface with a rubber spatula if the crack is large or polish it with a paper napkin if it is small.
Do not use colored fabric or synthetic napkins with Cosmofen liquid! Only paper ones, since Cosmofen dissolves paint and synthetic fabric.
Manufacturers of locks for plastic doors
The most common locks on the Russian market are from the following companies:
- Apex;
- Calais;
- Guardian.
A lock for a plastic door from Apex costs approximately 600-700 rubles (at the time of publication). The company primarily produces multi-locking devices. All products of the Chinese manufacturer are certified in Russia. It is produced in accordance with GOST and is durable (all products are designed for more than 200 thousand opening and closing cycles).
The cost of locks from the Turkish company Kale is slightly higher (approximately 1,000 rubles). Just like the previous company, Kale is engaged in the production of multi-point locks. The products are made from high-strength materials that are not subject to corrosion. All devices have a high class of burglary protection.
The Russian company Guardian produces a wider range of locks for plastic doors. The average cost of one product is 550 rubles. The manufactured products are certified. The model range is constantly changing, adapting to the needs of customers.
Each manufacturer gives a factory guarantee for its products, which indicates the quality of the products.
Level castle
This type of lock is rarely installed on a plastic door. It is more suitable for wooden or metal doors. The locking mechanism itself is opened with a key.
A lever-type lock consists of plates with rectangular teeth. They allow the plates to line up in the desired order, which is unique to each product.
The main advantages of such a lock are its low price and prevalence. The main disadvantage is low resistance to hacking. It is also worth noting that if you lose the key, it will not be possible to replace only part of the lock. That is, the entire mechanism will have to be changed completely.
Installation of an electromagnetic lock
To connect an electromagnetic lock, an electrical connection is required. Installation of the device is carried out as follows:
As with the installation of other types of locks, at the first stage the holes are marked for subsequent fastening of the device. The electromagnetic lock consists of two parts that fit tightly to each other, so marking must be carried out as accurately as possible, and in turn - first one part, then the other;
It is recommended to install the device at the top of the door at the corner.
- holes are drilled in the marked places, the depth of which is equal to the size of the mounting screw; both parts of the electromagnetic lock are installed and fixed;
- Each lock comes with connection instructions, according to which the electrical wires are installed and the terminals are connected;
- at the last stage, the connection to the power source is made and the functionality of the mechanism is checked. If any problems are found, steps 3-5 need to be checked and corrected if necessary.
If desired or necessary, you can connect additional devices to such a lock, for example, a closer or a video intercom.
Types of locking mechanisms
There are 2 types of PVC door lock: mortise and overhead. The mortise lock is most often used, as it preserves the external aesthetics of the canvas.
Types of locking mechanisms:
- Level plates - the device consists of a different number of plates.
- Cylinder - the mechanism in appearance resembles a cylinder in which pins move sequentially.
- Electronic - they are closed using a chip, key fob, etc.
- Electromagnetic - in addition to the electronic device, they have magnets that hold the door leaf closed.
- Multi-locking - the locking device consists of various elements that differ in type.
Most often, electromagnetic and multi-locking devices are installed on plastic sheets, because they are the strongest for small-sized products.
All locking mechanisms for PVC sheets also partially differ from similar devices, which are smaller in size and lighter.
Small locks are suitable for PVC sheets. These devices can be divided into:
- Cylinder mechanisms of small dimensions.
- Latch handles with a key that ensures reliable fixation (the most popular option, preventing a child from opening the lock).
- Magnetic latching handles that securely hold the sash using a special magnetic element.
- Roller latches. During closing, the spring is weakened, and the roller falls into a special groove, fixing the sash.
Please note that locking mechanisms for balcony doors are not as strong as possible. To provide additional protection against intrusion, you will need to install a security alarm, especially if the apartment is located on the ground floor.
What are there for sliding sashes?
Sliding door hardware can consist of a single handle or a handle and a lock. To open the sash, there is a boat handle that cuts into the canvas. If you need a lock, you can purchase a kit that includes a handle and a locking device.
The handles are equipped with a plastic gasket, which makes them very easy to install and dismantle. Features of the fittings include the presence of a finger handle, which provides the ability to grip the end of the sash in case it is completely embedded in the wall. These pens can have different shapes and colors.
When choosing a locking mechanism for a balcony door leaf, it is necessary to take into account all the advantages and disadvantages of a particular product, depending on the goals and needs of the owners.
Installation of a multi-point lock
Multi-point locks represent an entire door locking system. It consists of the following elements:
- the main mechanism, which can be of a crossbar or non-crossbar type;
- auxiliary roller or flange lock;
- a frame connecting all elements of the lock into a single system;
- movable bus;
- additional trunnions.
Due to the complexity of the device and the high precision during installation, it is not recommended to install the lock on your own.
Locks for plastic doors are quite varied. Some of them can be installed independently (mortise lever or cylinder, electromagnetic, etc.), while others (multi-port) only with the help of specialists. Each lock is unique in its own way and has a high degree of security. For long-term and uninterrupted operation of the device, it is recommended to purchase locks from the most well-known manufacturers.
Source: furni-info.ru/zamok-dlya-plastikovyh-dverej.html
Types of locks
Of the locking devices used that can be installed in a PVC balcony door, the most common are locks with a cylinder mechanism.
They are widespread and are installed both on entrance metal or wooden doors, and on interior doors that do not require special complexity or increased secrecy for the lock. This is exactly what most locks adapted for balcony doors belong to. The principle of operation of the cylinder mechanism is that inside the drum - the locking cylinder - there are spring-loaded cylinders located in one or three planes, which, when the key is inserted, take a certain position and their protrusions do not interfere with the rotation of the key in the cylinder.
This system can have very high degrees of secrecy, preventing it from being opened by selecting a key or using all kinds of master keys, but the main advantages are the very small size and interchangeability of the lock cylinder, which can be replaced without disturbing the design of the entire door as a whole.
The second type is level locks. The principle of their operation is fundamentally different from the operation of a cylinder mechanism.
The locking element of the lock, the latch, is activated mechanically by turning the key inserted into the keyhole, which lifts the spring-loaded plates with protrusions on one or both sides and thereby releases the latch of the lock for its free extension or, on the contrary, closing.
This type of lock is characterized by more bulky dimensions, is installed exclusively in the body of the door itself, and in the event of a breakdown of the mechanism or loss of the key, the door cannot be opened without breaking the structure.
According to the degree of fixation, locks are single-point - when the locking is performed at one point - usually at the point of extension of the standard lock latch.
Usually this is sufficient for doors that do not play a significant barrier function, and for multi-locking doors - in which fixation occurs at several points (usually three) by extending the lock bolt in the area of the door handle and at the upper and lower points of the door.
The use of a safe-type multi-locking mechanism, in which crossbars secure the door in four directions, is practically not used in balcony doors, since the unreliability of the door structure itself makes the use of such locks pointless.
Replacing the lock and cylinder of plastic entrance doors
Constant use of the door may sooner or later lead to the need to replace the lock or cylinder. There are different reasons why a lock may fail. This could be wear and tear, damage to the door mechanism or frame, etc.
The most common type of locks has a larval mechanism. They are not very expensive and effective. They are also easy to repair. Locks with this device do not need to be completely changed. It is enough to change only the main part.
The larva itself is a brass or steel form with pins inside. When you turn the key, the correct position of the pins is selected and the lock opens.
Electromechanical lock
This type of lock has several types of protection. Most often these are electronic protection and latch. The lock design provides for the presence of crossbars. But you can open it either with a key or using an electronic device (key fob, card, etc.).
An electromechanical lock for a plastic door is quite expensive. And yet, it is much more reliable than conventional electronic or mechanical locks. Such locks are often used in banks and various storage facilities.
Lock service life
The life cycle of mechanisms of this kind is influenced by several factors. They can increase or, conversely, shorten the service life of the device.
The material from which the lock is made. Locks can be made entirely of metal or have plastic elements.
Workmanship. As a rule, cheap models have a reduced service life.
Regular lock maintenance. It is necessary to lubricate the elements and change them if necessary.
Careful operation. There is no need to put extra effort or put pressure on the lock. Do not allow open bolts to hit the box. This can lead to damage to the cylinder or the entire lock.
Weather influence. If the door is located outdoors, the mechanism may be affected by precipitation, wind and low temperatures. Ice formed in the lock can damage the mechanism and make it unsuitable for further use.
Use only original keys. Factory keys are made from quality materials.
The number of openings and closings of the lock during the day. Repeated operations lead to rapid wear of internal elements.
Hacking attempts. Attackers won't care much about keeping your lock in working order.
To feel safe and ensure the reliability of your front door, you sometimes need to change the lock cylinder. The frequency of replacements will correspond to the frequency of exposure to the factors we have indicated.
Advantages of a plastic window
Other advantages of PVC windows include their durability. The service life of such structures can reach 15-20 years. In addition, PVC windows do not require serious maintenance. The tightness of the joints is another advantage of plastic window structures. Due to this feature, you can significantly reduce the cost of heating the room. Another advantage is fire safety, which is due to the properties of PVC. Finally, such window designs do not emit any harmful substances that negatively affect human health and the environment. The environmental friendliness of these structures is confirmed by numerous certificates.
Rice. 2. Plastic windows will last for 15-20 years.
Heat saving
One of the first and main advantages of replacing old windows with new plastic analogues is providing the required level of heat conservation. Due to this, owners of houses and apartments can significantly save on the maintenance and heating of their property. Plastic windows can significantly reduce heat loss due to the tightness of the joints and the use of double-glazed windows. Thanks to the filling of the double-glazed chambers with special gas, cold street air does not enter the room. This is also facilitated by the presence of several external and internal sealing contours.
Rice. 3. Plastic windows allow maximum heat retention in the house.
Noise insulation
PVC windows provide not only the proper level of heat conservation, but also sound insulation
This is especially important for apartments and houses that are located near busy city highways. In old ordinary windows there are always cracks through which any noise immediately enters the room, preventing you from resting during the day and getting a good night's sleep at night. Installing plastic windows with double glazed windows allows you to enjoy good rest both at night and during the day
In addition, installing a plastic window prevents dust and exhaust gases from entering the room, which negatively affect people’s health.
Installing plastic windows with double glazing allows you to enjoy complete rest both at night and during the day. In addition, installing a plastic window prevents dust and exhaust gases from entering the room, which negatively affect people's health.
Rice. 4. Replacing a regular window with a plastic one will allow you to forget about street noise.
Easy to care for PVC windows
The advantages include the ease of maintenance of metal-plastic windows. In order to keep PVC windows clean, it is enough to wash them with regular detergent at least once a week. Moreover, unlike old wooden windows, plastic profiles do not require “sealing” for the winter. And in the spring they do not have to be repainted and treated with special compounds to protect them from deformation. It is possible that sometimes for high-quality operation of this window structure, lubrication of the tilt-and-turn fittings will be necessary. This is usually done 2 times a year during the period of changing the winter/summer regime.
Rice. 5. Plastic windows do not require special care.
Safety
As mentioned above, metal-plastic windows do not have a negative impact on people's health. They are not subject to adverse external influences and do not emit any harmful substances into the atmosphere. Moreover, PVC is a self-extinguishing and highly flammable material. Accordingly, it is susceptible to possible fire. The use of special anti-burglary fittings also allows for complete protection of an apartment or house from possible intrusion by intruders. Multi-chamber double-glazed windows are almost impossible to break, so bars will have to be installed on the windows of the first floors.
Rice. 6. Plastic windows effectively protect the house from intruders.
Plastic window design
The fifth advantage of PVC windows is their design. Thanks to the versatility of these designs, they can be used harmoniously in any interior style. In addition, metal-plastic windows have an aesthetically beautiful appearance. In this case, PVC windows can have different sizes and colors. Additionally, this design can be made in various shapes. In practice, not only standard rectangular PVC windows are used, but also round, arched and many other options. It is thanks to all of the above advantages that PVC windows are considered the most popular glazing option in all developed countries.
Rice. 7. Plastic window configurations.
Replacing the lock
Locks for plastic doors have standardized sizes. Therefore, in most cases you will not have to bother with its adjustment. However, there are several features that should be taken into account. The lock or cylinder must be installed correctly, otherwise the mechanism simply will not perform its functions. Figuring out exactly how to install such devices is quite difficult.
Therefore, it is better to leave this to the professionals. The craftsmen will be able to quickly determine the need to replace the entire lock and will carry out all the work efficiently and in the shortest possible time.
Source: remont-okna-voronezh.ru
Cylinder lock
This type of mortise lock for a plastic door is also rarely used. First of all, it is intended for installation on metal and wooden doors.
The basis is the lock cylinder for a plastic door and cylindrical pins. You can open such a lock using a key with slots on the working part. When the key is turned, the pins are positioned in the correct combination and the lock opens.
If the key to such a lock is lost, the entire mechanism does not need to be changed. Only the larva changes.
Types of faults
Plastic doors are a reliable design with high thermal insulation characteristics, but sometimes troubles happen with them.
Types of breakdowns:
- the lock or handle is broken;
- the handle is difficult to turn or, conversely, dangles;
- the sash does not fit, the fittings require adjustment;
- the awnings were loose.
Many of these problems can be fixed yourself.
If the design is under warranty, call a repairman; if the owner tries to repair the metal-plastic product himself, the warranty will be canceled.
Eliminating the problem with poor door opening
If the plastic entrance door no longer opens/closes as expected, it may have sagged and needs to be adjusted. To adjust the canopies, pry it up, open the cap on the hinge, remove the decorative trims, and adjust the canopy with a hexagon.
If the sash squeaks, it is necessary to lubricate the awnings with thick lubricant.
It is not possible to tighten the screws because their seats have expanded and the threads are turning. Let's fix this problem:
- we change the bolts to longer ones and of a larger diameter (if necessary, you will need to drill holes in the metal plate of the hinge);
- We compact the planting nests with wooden chips;
- We move the loops to another place, slightly shifting their location up or down.
If you save money and order a door with weak hinges that cannot withstand the load, they can be replaced with more powerful ones. You can buy awnings for plastic entrance doors at any window company.
The handle is loose, the locking mechanism is faulty
During operation, the screws that secure the handle may become loose. Repairing a loose plastic door mechanism is very easy to do yourself. At the base of the handle there is a vertical decorative plate covering the fasteners. We turn it to a horizontal position, pry up the plate, pulling it slightly toward ourselves, and turn the plate to a horizontal position. Access to the fasteners is open, use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten the bolts, and return the trim to its place.
If the handle breaks, we purchase a new one from the window company. The square rod for the fitting groove is standard for all handles; pay attention to the material from which it is made. We unscrew the broken product from the balcony door, insert the square into the fitting groove, and fasten it with bolts.
If the handle is intact, but turns with difficulty, it is necessary to lubricate all moving elements of the fittings.
If the locking mechanism is broken, you need to figure out whether a separate element can be replaced or the entire mechanism needs to be replaced. To more accurately determine the extent of the damage, we call a specialist from a window company.
Aluminum reinforced handles cost 2-3 times more than plastic ones, but they will pay for themselves, since they are almost impossible to break.
Pros and cons of metal-plastic balcony doors
The popularity of metal-plastic products is caused by a number of objective factors, the most important of which are listed below:
Weak sensitivity to weather conditions
The material from which the frame and canvas are made does not fade, does not deform in the sun, easily tolerates severe frosts, does not allow moisture to pass through, and does not corrode.
Good thermal and sound insulation
The features of the frame and glass unit, which contain an air gap inside, as well as the presence of a rubber seal between the canvas and the frame, help retain heat in the room and significantly reduce the level of external noise.
Easy to care for
On the smooth surface of PVC, dust is retained less than on wood, so a plastic balcony door always looks neat and well-groomed. If dirt appears on the plastic, it can be quickly removed with a sponge and any cleaning agent - polyvinyl chloride is not afraid of chemicals and aggressive substances.
Functionality
Thanks to special fittings, the sash can open in several positions, providing access to the balcony or performing the function of ventilation. The amount of inclination can be adjusted to achieve the necessary supply of fresh air from the street into the room.
Plastic doors are not afraid of heat and cold, therefore they are used on any balcony, regardless of the degree of its thermal insulation
Skeptics attribute low environmental friendliness to PVC doors, due to the fact that when exposed to high temperatures from direct sunlight, plastic releases formaldehyde. The presence of elements harmful to health is typical for cheap products made using handicraft methods. Serious manufacturers strictly adhere to GOST standards, therefore they produce environmentally friendly products.
The only objective drawback of metal-plastic doors is their standard appearance. Despite several design solutions, the plastic sheet with frame looks quite simple, which limits their use in some designer interiors.
Castle repair
Let's look at how to fix a broken lock on plastic doors with your own hands. We remove the door handle, use the method described above to get to the bolts, unscrew them, and remove the handle. The door handle is inserted into the fitting groove using a square fastener.
There are two types of locks used on plastic entrance doors: with and without a latch. The latch holds the door in the closed position, preventing it from opening due to wind or touch.
Latches are:
- halyard, triggered by pressing the handle;
- roller in the form of a hinge mechanism - to open the door, you need to pull it towards you.
There are locks:
- single-lock – have one closing point, do not provide sufficient pressure of the sash to the frame;
- multi-locking or crossbar - provide protection against burglary and a more plastic door.
Multi-point locks provide high sound insulation and thermal insulation; the sash is tightly connected to the frame.
Multi-point locks are more expensive, but they provide high sound and thermal insulation due to the tight fit of the sash and protect it from sagging when closed due to locking elements located at several points.
A multi-point lock for plastic doors consists of a main and additional locking mechanism, a solid bolt and a tire that moves all elements of the system. Such a lock can be with a rebated push or roller latch.
Lock repair may include replacing the core, latch, or individual locking elements. You can replace the lock yourself by purchasing components and seeking advice from specialists.
Bottom line
PVC entrance doors are the optimal solution for creating an aesthetic, practical and safe exit to the garden, terrace or backyard. But only if equipped with a specialized multi-point lock, ensuring complete tightness and burglary resistance. Although home security is achieved through a set of measures, a door that is resistant not only to accidental vandalism, but also to “professional” break-ins is the most important “outpost”.
The profile thread on the forum contains a lot of useful information about door structures and locking hardware. You can read about window automation in the thematic material. An overview of the features of portal door systems is also useful. The video is about a house with non-standard architecture, which is harmoniously emphasized by PVC entrance doors.
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Replacing the lock on the balcony door
We change the lock and handle with our own hands. Stages of replacing a lock for plastic doors:
- Open the sash and unscrew the screws.
- Turn the decorative plug on the base of the handle horizontally and unscrew the bolts holding the handle.
- Remove the lock and handle.
- We measure the length according to the old drive, aligning the holes for the handle pin.
- We prepare the lock, install it in the groove, you can hammer it into the hole with gentle blows using a rubber hammer.
- We install the handle, tighten the bolts, and cover the fasteners with a plate.
- After installing the lock, the first turn of the handle always occurs with force.
- Lubricate the necessary elements of the lock and fittings. The door is ready for further use.
Can't turn the handle
If the door is hanging on one hinge and you can’t turn the handle, it means the door to the balcony was opened in two modes at once. You can fix this problem yourself within a few minutes. We find the opening blocker at the end of the sash; it looks like a tongue, located in the middle at the end; by pressing, we bring it to a horizontal position. We press the sash tightly against the frame, turn the handle to the ventilation mode, and then to the opening mode. The sash will fall into place, the handle will turn properly.
How to dismantle an old lock
If the lock on the balcony door is jammed or stops working correctly, it urgently needs to be changed. But before you do this, you must properly dismantle the damaged structure without causing defects on the door covering. The whole process will consist of the following algorithm:
- Preparation. We select the necessary tool to remove the broken structure. We will need a screwdriver, a screwdriver, and possibly pliers. If you still have instructions from the built-in lock, then take a look at it, because it may contain useful information.
- Removing fasteners. We unscrew all the screws and self-tapping screws that hold the cylinder. For this purpose, a Phillips screwdriver or a screwdriver with an attachment corresponding to the size of the screw head is suitable.
- Removing the lock. After unscrewing the clamps, remove all the linings and remove the old core from the well.
We simply install a new cylinder in this place and secure everything again. In most cases, only the cylinders are replaced, so no additional work to repair the entire lock structure is required.
Dismantling a broken mortise lock in a PVC door on a balcony Source nikastroy.ru
