Sliding Door Locks | Different Sliding Door Lock Options Available 

Sliding doors can be an excellent, aesthetically pleasing addition to any home. Whether you opt for internal or external sliding doors, they are a practical choice that can save space, let in natural light and create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas. As well as their visual appeal, sliding patio doors in particular need a secure lock to keep your home and its contents safe, but are there many options to choose from?

This guide will explore the locks available for sliding doors, as well as tips to make your doors more secure. We will also discuss how you can change the locks on your sliding doors, and you can maintain them to keep them working for longer.

What Locks are Available for a Sliding Door? 

The lock that your sliding door has depends on the manufacturer you choose, and whether you choose an internal or external option.

Internal Sliding Doors

Typically, internal sliding doors don’t have locks, as privacy and security aren’t a main concern when compared to external sliding doors. However, there are internal sliding doors with lock options if extra security is of importance, especially if the doors are located in an office or general commercial areas.

External Sliding Doors

For patio sliding doors, security is key. At Vufold, our Supreme external sliding doors are fitted with a multi-point locking system, alongside a three-star anti-drill and anti-snap cylinder, prioritising your safety and security. Similarly, our Status aluminium external sliding doors are PAS 24 accredited and include high-security interlocks for your peace of mind.

In some cases, you may be able to choose a lock that suits you, such as code locks and smart locks.

View our Supreme aluminium sliding patio door range here.

Can You Change the Locks on a Sliding Door? 

If your lock becomes damaged, it is possible to replace the lock on your sliding door. Our sliding doors come with a 15-year guarantee against manufacturing faults, including your lock, to keep your home safer for longer.

If you need to change your sliding door lock, you should check the surrounding area of the door for damage to ensure the new lock can be fitted correctly. Position your new lock so the holes align, and insert the new lock with the screws it came with.

How Can I Maintain My Sliding Door Lock?

Maintaining your sliding door locking mechanisms can extend the lifespan of your door and make wear and tear easier to identify. Make sure you prioritise the cleaning of the tracks and lock with a damp cloth, lubricate any moving parts and routinely check for wear and tear to keep your sliding door lock in working condition for longer.

If the lock starts to feel a bit stiff, try applying a silicone or oil-based lubricant to prevent rust and ensure a smoother operation. Avoid using an oil-based lubricant on the tracks and rollers to prevent more dust gathering. Routinely check for wear and tear, and tighten any loose screws. If you notice any immediate issues, try to remedy them as soon as possible to protect your home’s security.

Both our Status and Supreme aluminium sliding patio doors come with state-of-the-art locking systems, complete with a 15-year guarantee if any issues should occur. Start building your bespoke Status and Supreme sliding doors today.

Explore our Status aluminium sliding doors here.

How Do You Make a Sliding Door Burglar-Proof? 

As well as ensuring your sliding door is fitted with a high-quality lock, there are other ways that you can ensure your sliding doors are more likely to deter intruders.

Install Blinds 

A simple yet effective trick, installing blinds on your sliding doors can deter intruders by limiting their ability to scope the inside of your house. Blinds can hide the presence of people and pets, making intruders less likely to enter your home.

Invest in a Strong, Secure Lock 

Some sliding doors contain locks that are easy to bypass, making them a target for burglars and intruders. When choosing external sliding doors, ensure you opt for a reputable manufacturer who places safety and security high on their priorities; our sliding patio doors are fitted with high security locking systems to keep your home and its contents safe and secure.

Install Alarms 

Attaching sensors to your sliding door can ensure that you are alerted if someone tries to force entry into your home.

Install Cameras 

Alongside sliding door locks, placing cameras above your patio door can be a great deterrent, and can make it easier to identify intruders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install a sliding door lock myself, or should I hire a professional? 

It is easy to install a simpler, more standard lock yourself; our external sliding doors at Vufold come with all the parts you need, including your locking system, as well as easy to follow installation instructions to ensure your sliding door is fitted securely.

Can I replace my existing sliding door lock with a different type? 

Yes, you can usually replace your existing lock with a new one, but it all depends on the style of your door and the dimensions of the new lock to guarantee compatibility. If you want to install a smart lock, it is worth checking if your sliding doors can support one before purchasing.

Why is my sliding door lock sticking or hard to operate?

There are various reasons why your sliding door lock may be difficult to operate, such as debris buildup, worn components and misalignment through incorrect installation. If you check these elements and your door is still sticking, consider seeking the opinion of a professional.

How can I fix a misaligned sliding door lock? 

If your sliding door lock is misaligned, it will need adjusting appropriately. Loosen the screws holding the lock in place and move it up and down as needed to ensure it is in line.

Are multi-point locking systems better for sliding doors? 

Multi-point locking systems are considered the smarter choice for external sliding doors, as they provide better security and resistance to forced entry. Multi-lock sliding doors also offer more enhanced weather resistance, creating more of a seal between the door and the frame.

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