Almost every apartment has a balcony. Owners use it in different ways. Some people prefer to dry their clothes there, others go to smoke or get some fresh air. In any of the options, use the balcony often. But closing the door from the inside is problematic. At the same time, cold, noise or cigarette smoke enters the apartment, which is unpleasant for the other residents. But not everyone knows that in addition to the handle, there is a latch for the plastic balcony door. What is its purpose, types, installation features are discussed in the article.
Purpose of the latch
A magnetic latch on the balcony door will not protect the owner from a thief getting into the apartment. Its purpose is to provide easy cover when going out onto the balcony. This part of the fittings is popularly called the “smoker’s latch.” The point is to prevent smoke from entering the apartment while smoking.
The plastic door to the balcony is equipped with a handle on one side only. Without additional fittings, the door can only be closed inside the apartment. An overhead balcony latch eliminates this inconvenience. When going out onto the balcony, you can close the canvas using the handle-plate, and when entering, you can easily open it. The PVC balcony door latch relieves residents from the unpleasant smell of cigarettes, cold air, and excess noise entering the apartment.
Attention! If the balcony is not glazed, then you should take care of the condition of the latch in advance, before the onset of cold weather.
If a malfunction is detected or if it is skewed, it is worth adjusting the blade or replacing the locking mechanism. In conditions of low temperatures, changing accessories will be uncomfortable and even problematic.
DIY installation and latches
The first step is to choose the right product. Further work does not require any knowledge, which makes it easy to install or replace it yourself. But the presence of some tools is mandatory.
You need to take several screwdrivers, usually a Phillips and a flathead one. You will also need simple pliers. It is advisable to have a screwdriver with different types of attachments.
One of the most important steps is selecting a suitable screw. In such a case, it should not exceed 19 millimeters. If the size is larger, the glass unit can be damaged, and sometimes even completely ruined.
Also read on our website: Fittings for plastic balcony doors - spare parts, components, replacement
Replacing the handle is not at all difficult, so there is no need to stop there. After attaching it, we move on to the next stage.
To do this you will need several screws, the length of which is 30-35 millimeters. We put a metal cylinder on the screw and screw it at the same level as the handle.
Why do the screws have to be this particular length? Here's the thing. If the cylinder takes a certain distance, it is necessary to provide it with a safety margin, just in case. The role of this cylinder is that it holds the door in the closed position and takes on a fairly large load.
Next, when you have installed the cylinder, you need to attach the latch to the door. For convenience, take a marker or pencil. Lean the door against it and determine the approximate location where the cylinder will fit and mark it.
Next you need to do the work step by step:
- It is necessary to screw the top screw and check whether the cylinder fits correctly into the latch. If the measurements were taken correctly, the cylinder should fit into the latch without any obstruction;
- Next, screw in the bottom screw;
- After the work is done, check whether the latch holds the door tightly.
If the latch does not hold the door structure well, then try placing a washer under it and check the result again. If one washer is not enough, you can install several.
Types of latches
The choice of such devices is small. Clamps are available in two types:
- mechanical;
- magnetic.
Mechanical models are more varied. They are difficult to install or change. They are presented in several versions.
Mechanical latches
- Roller is a well-known, popular mechanical latch among users. The operating principle is simple. The roller itself is attached to the end of the blade. The counter part is based on the frame in the form of two hooks on springs. When the roller passes between the hooks, they grab and hold it.
- The halyard latch is strong and durable. The downside is that the latch is part of the locking mechanism. Installation requires complete replacement of the lock, if present. If you install it yourself and lack experience, you can ruin the design. It is difficult to embed the locking mechanism and two rotary handles for the first time.
- Rotary - mechanism in the form of a latch. Easy to install. Can be mounted on both sides. Presented in the form of a rotary bolt. Not popular. If the latch closes unexpectedly, you will need to break or remove the glass unit. In addition, they look out of date - the appearance is unattractive.
There are also regular and hinged mechanisms, depending on what type of door they are attached to.
Magnetic variety
Magnetic clasp is the perfect solution. Easy to install, inexpensive, and functions reliably. The mechanism is simple. An iron plate is attached to the end of the door. A response block with a magnet inside is attached to the frame. When closed, the magnet attracts the metal plate. Able to hold the canvas in strong gusts of wind. A similar principle of operation is presented in many furniture latches.
Unlike mechanical ones, the magnetic latch does not need to be lubricated or the springs need to be changed. If the canvas is distorted, the functionality of the magnetic mechanism will not be affected, unlike a mechanical one. Involuntary opening of the balcony door is eliminated. Closing is possible not only from the inside, but also from the outside, thanks to the double-sided handle.
Advantages of the magnetic mechanism:
- noiselessness;
- reliability;
- long service life;
- ease of installation.
Important! Typically, a plastic balcony structure is already equipped with a latch. When purchasing, it is better to immediately pay attention to this and choose a suitable mechanism for fixation.
Complete set of built-in magnetic latches
The number of items included in the kit varies depending on the manufacturer. The standard package of a magnetic latch for a plastic balcony door with a passive mechanism includes:
- Magnet in a plastic box that is mounted on the frame.
- A metal strip installed in the door leaf.
Some companies supplement the set with screws, as well as handles, depending on the type of fastener. You can purchase the strike plate and magnetic box separately. They differ in profile width: 9, 13, 18 mm.
How to choose a latch for a balcony door
When choosing a suitable latch, it is worth determining for yourself the features of all devices. Roller - durable and does not break. In case of misalignment, the mechanism will have to be adjusted again. If this is not done, the clamps will not grip the roller and the latch will not engage.
The halyard one has the same drawback - if it is skewed, the latch needs to be adjusted. It is also inconvenient because if your hands are busy, it cannot be opened by simply pushing the door.
Magnetic - ideal for plastic doors. Even if skewed, the latch will not break or lose functionality. No force is required to open or close. The magnet attracts the plate, so when choosing a latch, it is better to choose a magnetic latch, as it is the most convenient to use.
It is worth keeping in mind that they are different:
- by type of mechanism;
- according to the installation method.
There are three main types:
- Built-in. The magnet works using a handle built into both sides of the blade.
- Passive. Contains 2 bases - a metal bar and a magnet. The parts of the mechanism are attracted, providing reliable fixation.
- Electromagnetic. Locks the door securely and is often used as the main lock. It costs expensive.
Depending on the mounting method, the clamp can be mortise or overhead. The size of the mechanism must fit the canvas. Too long or short will be inappropriate for standard designs.
How to choose a balcony latch?
The balcony latch is a kind of latch that securely holds the door in the closed position. There are a huge variety of similar products on the market, as well as other types of accessories.
Most often, manufacturers make such fittings interchangeable, that is, different balcony latches for plastic doors can fit many types of balcony doors and windows. Therefore, experts advise choosing just such options so that, if necessary, they can be easily replaced.
In order not to make a mistake when choosing, it is advisable to know some nuances, such as: the model and name of the fittings installed on your door, and the name of the door profile system.
Important! You should also understand that a high-quality part cannot be too cheap, but buying the most expensive option is not always advisable.
Installing a latch for a balcony door yourself
When installing a magnetic lock on a balcony door yourself, it doesn’t matter whether it is wooden or plastic. Installation on metal structures is not recommended. The installation technique for the magnetic and roller mechanisms is approximately the same. The time spent on installation takes no more than half an hour.
To install the clamps, you need the following tool:
- screwdriver;
- drill;
- screwdrivers;
- roulette;
- hammer;
- chisel;
- accessories.
Installing the roller latch
Installation of the roller mechanism begins with installing the roller on the canvas.
- Before installation, you need to unscrew the screw closest to the door handle. Instead, a roller is screwed in. The roller extends beyond the canvas. The hardware for it should be a little longer.
- To install the mating part, you need to mark the position of the roller. Using a ruler applied to the center of the roller, its location is marked. The canvas is covered, the markings are applied to the frame.
- The latch is applied according to the markings and screwed with a self-tapping screw.
- You need to check the exact fit of the roller. You can make sure by opening and closing the door several times. If everything is fine, install the lower self-tapping screw.
Installing a magnetic latch
The magnetic lock is installed in approximately the same way:
- The screw closest to the handle is unscrewed.
- A steel strip is attached in its place.
- The door closes slightly.
- The top and bottom edges of the strip are marked on the frame.
- The counter part with the magnet is screwed on.
No need to ignore the false pen. It is not required for installation, but without it, using the latch is not as convenient. The smoker's handle is installed on the outside of the canvas, in a place where it is more convenient for the owner.
Installation of the locking mechanism is simple. This applies to both roller and magnetic. Sizes are selected individually. Mainly suitable for the profile of standard canvases.
Types of latches
The fittings are available in two types: mechanical and magnetic. In the first case, the most popular are roller clamps. In this case, a roller is installed on the side of the balcony door, and a U-shaped recess is installed on the frame, as a result of which when closing the door, the protrusion must fall into the groove, so it is necessary to carefully adjust the parts.
The second type of latch is magnetic. It is convenient to use and very easy to install, because you do not need to adjust it down to the millimeter, because the fittings adhere to a surface of several centimeters. This type of mechanism operates much quieter than a mechanical one.
Depending on the installation method, the latches are:
- Mortise;
- Invoices.
And depending on the type of device there are:
- Passive type. The most popular and easy to use. It consists of magnetic and metal strips, one of which is attached to the frame, and the second to the canvas;
- Electromagnetic type. A complex device that plays the role of a full-fledged lock for a balcony structure. Rarely used in residential premises, more relevant in storage rooms, vending machines and refrigerated cabinets;
- Built-in type. The fittings open and close using handles located on both sides of the door.
Care
The retainer does not require special care or attention. If you follow the instructions and installation techniques, the mechanism works properly. Even in the event of sagging and distortion of the canvas, the magnetic lock works correctly. If the mechanism is used carefully, without shocks or damage, the latch will also last a long time without additional maintenance.
Installing a magnetic lock on the balcony door will create additional comfort when using the balcony and eliminate unpleasant odors, cold, and noise. This is the simplest and most reliable type of lock for a balcony door made of plastic or wood. Installation on metal sheets is not recommended, but they are not installed on standard balconies.
What problems might there be with the operation of the lock?
If used for a long time, such fittings sooner or later begin to do their job poorly. Sometimes adjustments or even complete replacement are required.
If the handle does not turn well or you hear a squeaking sound, you must use a special lubricant.
Remember that it is not recommended to use other mixtures, since they may contain various aggressive resins and other substances that can damage these parts.
The main reasons for the breakdown of the handle and latch lock include:
- Poor care of products;
- Not careful operation;
- Wear of some fittings;
- Damage to the mechanism;
- Incorrect position of the door itself (misalignment);
- Poor quality materials.
Often, when such parts begin to do their job poorly, many resort to replacing them, but there is no need to rush into this. First check the elements for the presence of lubricant.
Sometimes just cleaning them and applying lubricant is all you need to avoid replacing them and save money at the same time. But when you notice wear and tear on some elements or a breakdown of one of them, it is advisable to replace them, since such repairs may be impractical.
Balcony latches must be given special attention, because they determine whether the door structure can cope with the load. Otherwise, this may lead to damage to both the latch and other elements of the door structure.
