A Simple Guide To Your Patio Door Handles

If you have patio doors, then you already know the benefits. They make your home look bigger. They improve natural lighting. They even make getting in and out of your home quicker and easier. Yet, like any other door type, patio doors can run into various problems as time goes on. Ask any locksmith in Sheffield how often they fix patio doors, and they’ll let you know how extensive the issues are!

That does not mean you should get rid of your patio doors, though. Instead, it pays to understand where issues emerge most regularly. For most homeowners, problems with patio doors start with their locks and end with the door handles. To help you understand what issues can exist with your patio door handles, read on. This locksmith-approved Q&A prepared by an expert who has completed a City & Guilds locksmith course will help you solve your issues.

Patio Door Handles 101: Every Frequently Asked Question

Locksmiths have noted that in their conversation with customers, the most common queries about patio door handles include:

Are There Different Types Of Patio Door Handles?

There sure are – you can get a whole range of styles for patio door handles. Their functions, features, compatible locks and aesthetics all change depending on what type of patio door handles you buy. What works in one type of patio door might not be suitable for your doors. Some handles come with specific security features included, while others provide basic security but different aesthetics. 

Is There A Single Size For Patio Door Handles?

No, there is not a singular size that you can buy. If you shop around at any kind of store for patio door handles, you will find that there are many sizes that you can buy. In fact, that is part of the confusion. Working out which size of patio door handles you need is one of the first questions you need to answer. Otherwise, you could buy patio door handles which are simply too big (or too small)!

You need to carry out a measurement to understand what size patio door handles you need. Check out our tips below for measuring patio door handles so you can buy the right size of handles. Or, if you would prefer, hire a locksmith; they can measure, supply and fit new patio door handles for you.

Can I Measure My Patio Door Handles Myself?

Definitely – it’s actually quite an easy process to carry out. To measure your patio door handles, you need to measure two parts of the handle itself. 

1. Start by measuring the size of the backplate of your patio door handles. To do this, you should be measuring from the central point of your handle to the centre of the fixing screws.

2. You also need to manage from the central point of the spindle hole in your patio door handles to the central point of the keyhole.

These measurements are very important to get right. You will find that most stores that sell patio door handles have handles broken down by general size. If you can get a measurement within that ballpark figure, you should be able to find compatible patio door handles. If you are unsure, call a locksmith. 

How Do I Tighten/Loosen My Patio Door Handles?

One of the most common reasons for a patio door handle failing to work as it should is that it has become too tight or too loose. Loose patio door handles are more common than tight handles. In fact, the only reason your patio door handles should be too tight is that, after being loose, you have tightened them too much!

Tightening up your handles is just a simple case of using a screwdriver (normally a Philips head screwdriver) to tighten the screws inside the door handle. If the screws will not tighten or the threads have worn out and the screws are just spinning, you might be better off replacing the handle itself. Again, a locksmith can do this for you.

Can I Replace My Patio Door Handle Myself?

Yes, changing the aesthetics of your patio door handles is actually quite easy. Buy a compatible patio door handle and then remove your old handle by removing the screws that we mentioned above. Take these screws out and the handle should fall off without any resistance. When that happens, you now have just to attach your new patio door handle with the screws that come as part of the order. 

Changing your patio door handles should be a simple, quick process. If you are having trouble getting the handle(s) to go on as intended, contact a local locksmith. There could be an issue with the door itself that needs more professional input before you can attach your new patio door handles. 

How Often Should I Check My Patio Door Handles?

We recommend that you carry out an annual review of your patio door handles. Sometimes, the issues can be the result of some basic dirt and debris buildup. Cleaning out the patio door handles as well as tightening them back up can be all you need to make sure they get back to full working order. Make a note to check your patio door handles at least once per year, or hire a locksmith to do so.

Are You Having A Headache With Your Patio Door Handles?

If your patio doors are still causing you issues, it might be time to contact a professional. DIY repairs on patio door handles have a habit of going wrong. The problems can be far more complicated than they first appear. With that being the case, it would be wise to bring in a third-party professional.

By hiring a locksmith, you get the peace of mind of knowing that the problems with your patio door handles are fixed correctly. 

Locksmiths can address the problems that emerge in a timely manner and fix the structural issues or weaknesses. They can also, if needed, replace the patio door handles for you. At the same time, a locksmith can review your locks to verify any other potential issues.

If you are unsure about what to do with your patio door handles, call a locksmith. The sooner you get these problems fixed, the sooner you can get back to enjoying your patio doors instead of worrying about them!