Adjusting Locks and Receivers on Doors

Adjusting locks and receivers on doors is not a daunting task if you have a little knowledge. All doors will need some type of adjustment during their lifetime. Palladio Doors and uPVC doors are usually fitted with locks and lock receivers which are adjustable. The hook-bolt lock and receivers which are fitted to Palladio Composite Doors are second to none. The lock itself which is attached to the door has off-set rollers which can be adjusted. The receivers which are attached to the jamb are also fully adjustable.

Images of Adjusting Locks and Receivers on Doors

Here are images of both locks and receivers.

What you need to have to complete adjustments

One very useful set of tools is the Allen Key set. This can be sourced at any good hardware store like Woodies or indeed online. It has many uses besides adjusting doors and we would advise you to have this in your tool kit. A star head screwdriver and WD 40 oil. Get your Allen key, insert it in the receiver and turn it right or left. You will see the receiver move in our out. Move it in to tighten the locking system or out to loosen the system.

The majority of locking systems go through extensive testing and work perfectly in normal weather conditions. When the weather changes to either very cold conditions or extremely hot weather you may need to adjust the receivers to accommodate expansion or contraction. That is the reason all good doors are fitted with adjustable receivers and hinges. If you experience any problems during extreme temperature fluctuation it may be best not to make any adjustments until the extreme spell passes.

Bowing & Thermal Movement

All Composite Doors, uPVC Doors and Wood Doors experience thermal movement and bowing. This is usual in any country where external and internal temperature changes. In Europe most countries have four seasons, and in each of these seasons the temperature changes. So, all doors will experience thermal movement. The great feature of Composite Doors and uPVC Doors is that they are fitted with adjustable lock receivers and adjustable rollers on the lock itself. The tolerance of bowing and thermal movement is up to +/- 5mm in length and +/- 3mm in width. Tightening or slackening off the receivers will compensate for any bowing. That is the reason for all the adjustments on the locks and receivers.

Closing Doors – Important Information

When it comes to maintaining the integrity of your Palladio door, one crucial aspect you can control is how you close it. This simple action can prevent potential warping or bowing damage that often results from improper closure. With composite doors, such as a Palladio, it’s essential to pull the handle up—commonly referred to as “throwing the handle”—once the door is shut. This ensures that all locks are fully engaged, providing a secure seal against water ingress and safeguarding against future damage.

Failing to close your door properly leaves it precariously resting on a latch that only secures the middle portion. This oversight allows both the top and bottom of your door to become vulnerable to warping or swelling, particularly in fluctuating temperatures. By consistently throwing the handle each time you close your door, you’re not just securing your home; you’re also taking a proactive step in preserving your investment and avoiding costly repairs down the line.

Incorporating this simple habit into your routine can save you significant money over time by preventing unnecessary wear and tear. So next time you close your Palladio door, remember: a small action today can lead to substantial savings tomorrow!