Types and features of the lock and fittings intended for installation on a balcony door

A plastic door on the balcony will reliably protect the room from the penetration of cold air, dust and extraneous sounds from the street. The use of such a door is convenient and practical; it does not require periodic repainting of the surface in its maintenance, and its service life is much longer than that of a wooden door. But in order for the plastic door to perform all the functions assigned to it for a long time and flawlessly, it is necessary that it be correctly adjusted and have strong and reliable fittings. The main components used for fittings for plastic structures are the handle and the lock. It depends on their quality how long the door will last and how comfortable it will be to use it.

• Features of balcony door handle
• Features of the latch of the plastic door
• Exterior balcony handle
• Problems of operating a lock on a balcony door

The main characteristics that it must meet:

• the degree of wear resistance;
• maximum strength;
• aesthetic appearance;
• compliance with quality standards;
• optimal price.

High-quality and reliable fittings cannot be cheap, but the “price-quality” correspondence must be observed.

Why do you need a castle

Installation of locks on doors leading to the balcony is necessary in the following cases:

• when there are small children in the house - to prevent them from going out onto the balcony without parental supervision;
• when the apartment is located on the first or upper floors and the balcony is not additionally equipped with glazing or grilles - for entry through the door of "uninvited guests", simply thieves;
• when extremely inventive and intelligent animals live in the house (usually large dogs) who easily learn to open doors by pressing the handle with their paws.

To protect yourself, your loved ones and pets, it makes sense to change the door handle for a handle with a lock. Unlike latches, which fix the closed position of the balcony door, but do not prevent its free opening, both from the side of the room and from the side of the balcony, the lock completely prevents this possibility.

There are several possible designs. All of them are adapted for installation in a metal-plastic balcony structure, allow you to change the handle with a lock yourself, and differ only in minor technical details.

PVC balcony door fittings

The service life of a plastic door on a balcony depends on the quality of the fittings.

Constipation is divided into the following types:

• turning;
• swing-out;
• parallel-sliding;
• rotary with a lock;
• swing-out with a lock;
• swivel with two handles;
• swing-out with two handles.

What the fittings should be depends on the size of the entire structure that forms the exit to the balcony. The larger the door, the heavier it is. If the door has large dimensions, it is recommended to use the parallel-sliding type of hardware. In this case, the structure will not sag and thereby retain its density.

The main hardware for a balcony door includes:

• loops;
• doorhandle;
• sealant.

Hinges

Door hinges are the most important part of the hardware, with which the door leaf is attached to the frame. During the manufacturing process, the manufacturer must take into account the dimensions of the door leaf and the type of door lock that will be used.

The most commonly used standard hinges made of anti-corrosion metal are suitable for both windows and doors. They are able to withstand a weight of 130 kilograms.

The balcony block is completely assembled in production. It is enough for the customer to give the dimensions. You don't have to hang the door on the hinges at home. If the door is large and weighs more than 130 kilograms, you will need to use special hinges that can cope with the increased load capacity.

If the warranty period that the manufacturer gives for his product has expired, the door does not fit snugly against the frame due to the fact that the hinges have ceased to function, the following settings must be made:

1. Using the hinges, you can adjust the position of the canvas to the opening.
2. Raise or lower the door along the opening by turning the bolt located in the lower hinge. To do this, first remove the protective cap. When turning to the right, the door leaf rises, turning to the left - it goes down.
3. You can move the door leaf from left to right using the second bolt located near the bottom hinge. Located from parallel to the door. By turning the screwdriver with a hexagonal head to the right, the lower corner of the blade is pulled closer to the hinge. At this time, the opposite corner is lowered. By turning the screwdriver to the left, the upper corner is raised. It is possible to adjust the position of the door leaf with the bolt located near the upper hinge only when the door is fully open.

Important! If the plastic door stops working during the warranty period specified by the manufacturer, in no case should you undertake repairs yourself. It is recommended to call company employees to carry out repair work.

Doorhandle

The handle constantly receives a lot of stress, driving the entire mechanism. If you use this element correctly, then it will serve for a long time without problems.

Handles are of the following types:

• made according to the traditional principle;
• with an inserted lock;
• having a button;
• double-sided equal;
• double-sided mixed;
• push;
• seashells.

Door handles with built-in keyholes or pushbuttons are most often chosen by customers with small children. They will not let the little ones open the door.

Shells are attached only from the outside of the door leaf. With their help, you can tightly close the door, leaving the balcony.

Double-sided multi-sized handles are mounted in the canvas to close the balcony both from the side of the room and from the balcony platform. Such handles, unlike conventional ones, have a lock, the center of which is located slightly away from the edge of the sash.

Situations arise when the handle stops functioning. You can repair it yourself without contacting the service, depending on the type of malfunction:

1. Loose handle is easy to repair. To do this, turn the plate under the handle and tighten the screws. After that, the lining must be reinstalled.
2. To replace a broken handle, you will need to completely unscrew the screws and remove parts of the part. A new handle is installed instead. Screw the screws back in and tighten tightly. After that, the plate is rotated to the position in which it was originally.
3. If the handle turns poorly, it means that dirt has got into the mechanism; the door is slack and does not adhere well to the frame. In this case, the situation can be corrected by adjusting the mechanism or lubricating it. It is not worth worrying about the breakage of the handle, since it is serviceable and does not require additional repair.
4. Often the constipation "pops up" if, when leaving the balcony, the user does not pay attention to its position. When you turn the handle into ventilation mode with the door open, the blocking will work. To fix everything, you need to press the spring-loaded tab and turn the handle vertically.

Sealant

Do not think that ordering a balcony door made of the most expensive profile and a double-glazed window that provides high thermal insulation will be enough to protect the room from the cold in winter. In this case, the seal is of great importance.

It is an elastic band with a raised profile. It is installed in recesses that are located along the diameter of the door or window profile.

When the door is closed, the seal is tightly pressed against the frame, which performs the following functions:

1. The room is completely isolated from the penetration of extraneous noise and smell, street dust, moisture during rain, and drafts.
2. Serves as protection from cold or hot air at the appropriate time of the year. Thanks to this, a favorable microclimate is maintained in the room.
3. Protects metal fittings from the accumulation of condensation.

For the manufacture of seals, materials are used in the production of which toxic substances are not added. They can be used for a long time without fear of deformation. The gaskets have excellent resistance to both high and low temperatures. In addition, it is not affected by ultraviolet rays.

For the manufacture of this part of the fittings, the following materials are used:

• polyvinyl chloride;
• ethylene propylene rubber;
• thermoplastic elastomer;
• vulcanized rubber;
• silicone.

In order to choose a seal, you must first study what material it is made of and calm down how long it will serve. This is done during the preparation of an application for a balcony block or before making a replacement on its own.

The cheapest is black EPDM. Due to the low cost of the product, it is most often bought. But for good functionality, it must be treated with a substance containing silicone twice a year.

Thermoplastic and regular gray rubber are equally popular. The most reliable among the seals is the silicone seal. It is easy to look after him. Such a seal lasts longer than usual. The balcony block looks very aesthetically pleasing and light. The price of a silicone seal is high, so not everyone can afford such a piece of hardware.

The following signs indicate that you need to change the seal:

• a draft is felt from the side of the balcony door:
• the noise of a vehicle passing by the apartment was heard;
• cracks appeared on the seal;
• metal fittings are covered with condensation;
• mold and mildew have formed on the seal.

Some of these problems are eliminated by adjusting the flap position. Most often, a complete replacement of the seal is made.

The procedure is as follows:

1. The seal is carefully removed from the profile grooves.
2. The groove is completely cleaned of dirt accumulated in it.
3. A special glue is applied in the corners, which will help to securely fix the seal.
4. Each joint of the seal is glued to create a tight seal when the door is closed.

Hardware for organizing micro ventilation

Additional accessories include fittings for micro-ventilation of the room. It is necessary if a plastic balcony door is used. This is explained by the fact that when changing wooden windows and doors to pvc, a person gets tightness and high thermal insulation of the room. But at the same time, the room does not receive the required amount of fresh air. A sufficient amount of air enters the room with the help of the micro-ventilation mechanism.

Important! The lack of air circulation in the room leads to an uncomfortable condition among the people living there. Immunity weakens and the body becomes susceptible to infection by viruses and bacteria. The person becomes lethargic and weak.The room itself becomes a breeding ground for fungal spores, viruses and bacteria.

Thanks to special fittings, the door leaf forms a small gap, which lets fresh air into the room. In this case, the handle is fixed in the middle, between vertical and horizontal, position, lowering the upper edge of the canvas to form a few millimeters of the gap.

If desired, the customer can order a special climatic valve in the application, which is inserted by the manufacturer into the profile of the door block. This mechanism works automatically, regulating the amount of fresh air that enters the room.

Varieties of locks

Of the locking devices used, which can be installed in a PVC balcony door, the most common are locks with a cylinder mechanism.

They are widespread, and are installed both in entrance metal or wooden doors, and on interior doors that do not require special complexity or increased secrecy for the lock. This is 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, spring-loaded cylinders are located in one or three planes, which, when the key is inserted, take a certain position and do not interfere with the rotation of the key in the cylinder with their projections.

More on the topic How to fix plastic windows?

This system can have very high degrees of secrecy, preventing its opening 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 disrupting the structure of the entire door as a whole.

Lever locks are the second type. The principle of their operation is fundamentally different from that of the cylinder mechanism.

The locking element of the lock is a latch, it is activated mechanically when the key inserted into the keyhole is turned, which with projections on one or both sides raises the spring-loaded plates and thereby releases the latch for its free extension or, on the contrary, for closing.

This type of locks 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 a key, it cannot be opened without violating the structure of the door.

Given the fragility of the structure of PVC metal-plastic doors, the installation of such locks in balcony doors is very rare and is usually not provided either by their design or by the manufacturers.

According to the degree of fixation, locks are single-point - when locking is performed at one point - usually at the point of extension of the standard latch of the lock.

Usually this is sufficient for doors that do not play a significant barrier function, and multi-point ones - 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 multi-point safe-type mechanism, in which the crossbars fix the door in four directions, is practically not used in balcony doors, since the unreliability of the door design itself makes the use of such locks meaningless.

Exploring the "window muscles"

Lesson 1. Basic elements

Sash fittings scheme

Almost any hardware for PVC windows, which is responsible for setting the sash in motion (it is not for nothing that it is figuratively called "window muscles"), is created according to a single scheme. All components can be conditionally divided into two groups - basic and additional.

The main part of the fittings provides:

• pressing the sash to the frame at several points;
• blocking the opening of the sash from the outside;
• opening the sash in a pivot position;
• opening of the sash in the tilted position.

Sometimes the folding element is not included in the design. This reduces the cost and simplifies the hardware complex, but reduces the functionality of the window - now you cannot put it on airing.

List of the main elements of the fittings:

Lesson 2. Additional elements

The mechanism for PVC windows can include not only basic, but also additional fittings. Usually, the presence of such elements allows the sash to be opened in different modes for ventilation, or increases the comfort of using the system as a whole.

Separate hardware elements are responsible for additional operating modes.

The most common types of additional elements are:

Naturally, this list is not complete - other mechanisms can be used to expand the functionality of the structure. But even these details will be enough to make the use of your PVC window safe and as comfortable as possible.

Lesson 3. How to choose quality fittings?

High-quality fittings are a guarantee that the window will open easily, close reliably and will not require adjustment for at least several years. But here's how to distinguish quality products from those that fail ahead of time?

I would highlight the following parameters for selecting a reliable mechanism:

1. Manufacturer. Oddly enough, but here the brand can almost always be considered a guarantee of a certain quality. Roto, Maco, Siegenia aubi, WinkHaus fittings are, perhaps, the “four pillars” on which the market stands. Such brands as Vorne, GU, Axor, Geviss and some others are also good, but according to the subjective impression they are still inferior to the grandees. Nameless Turkey and nameless China - this is the economy on quality and comfort.

Hardware complex from WinkHaus - one of the leading manufacturers in this industry

A good hardware mechanism cannot be cheap. Ideally, the price of fittings is about 10-15% of the total cost of the window. If the ratio is lower, there is a risk that the mechanism simply will not “pull out” the loads and will fail prematurely.

The hinge is experiencing the most serious load, therefore, its resistance to deformation should be maximum.

1. Carrying capacity. For a regular window, about 100 kg per hinge is enough, for wide sashes, multi-chamber glass units and a heavy profile, at least 130 kg per hinge. Almost all manufacturers provide this, so that problems with the top or bottom hinge only arise when there is a serious overload.
2. Anti-corrosive coating. It is highly desirable to purchase products with multilayer rust protection from a chromium-nickel composition. The higher the protection period declared by the manufacturer, the better.

Metal parts must be coated with a protective compound - otherwise they will rust very quickly

1. Burglary resistance. Standard locks make it relatively easy to "squeeze" the sash from the frame from the outside, gaining access to the lock. That is why for the private sector, the first and last floors, it is better to purchase anti-burglar fittings. It usually includes mushroom or hook pins, reinforced strikers, and inner plates to prevent drilling out of the lock.

Photo showing the engagement of the anti-burglary mushroom pin and the reinforced striker

Where locks are 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 structural changes to the door.

The first use of the lock is extremely rare. Requires a change in the design of the door and is practically not used in plastic balcony doors.

The second is widespread and there are a lot of manufacturers who produce removable balcony handles with a lock built into them.

The lock can be installed both outside and from the side of the room. Usually, installation only from the side of the room is sufficient. Moreover, the lock may not be fully functional, but have a push-button or petal lock, which excludes turning the door handle, both from the side of the dwelling and from the outside.

If the goal is to prevent a child or animals from opening the lock, this is quite enough, but when it comes to protecting against outsiders from entering through the balcony, of course, it is better and more reliable to use a cylinder mechanism with keys.

The cylinder mechanism can be located both inside the room - in this case, when the lock is locked, it is completely impossible to open the door from the outside, from the balcony, or from the inside.

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 blocked by either a push-button or a petal lock. This scheme is also used very rarely, since it makes no sense.

The extremely rare cases when the entrance to the premises is arranged through the balcony are more likely related to the commercial use of premises on the first floors of buildings, when balconies are converted into vestibules or additional areas.

When adjustment of a plastic balcony door is required

The price of a plastic balcony door is quite high, but buying an expensive high-quality model does not save you from frequent cases of breakdowns of the mechanism. It's all about its frequent use, leading to a decrease in the tightness of the sash.

Plastic door installation process

In addition, the glass unit provides excellent sound insulation and PVC guarantees durability. However, it is these materials that noticeably make the structure heavier, as a result of which it begins to sag under its own weight and ceases to close tightly. As a result, a noticeable draft appears in the room, and the insulation of the balcony does not help.

The normal position of the plastic door is as follows:

• if the door is open, it does not move on its own;
• no sash displacement;
• the leaf is firmly pressed against the door frame profile.

Installing the lock

It is not difficult to install the lock with your own hands. In time, this manipulation will take no more time than replacing a broken door handle.

For installation, it is necessary to select the necessary door handle in the store, equipped with either a cylinder lock with keys, or a simple latch, it is desirable that the name of the manufacturer of this handle and the fittings that is installed on the doors coincide.

After that, you need to remove the old handle without a lock. All you need is a cross screwdriver. At the base of the handle, a decorative plug is pulled towards itself and rotated by 90 °.

Two self-tapping screws are unscrewed, fixing the handle, the handle together with the square pin is pulled out, and a handle with a lock is installed in its place. It is screwed on with old self-tapping screws, or supplied with the handle, the decorative plug is returned to its place.

The only condition is the coincidence of the holes for the self-tapping screws. It is advisable to remove the dimensions between the centers of the holes on the old handle before buying a handle. But in the overwhelming majority of cases, the sizes of handles with locks are standardized and are suitable for installation on almost any model of accessories.

Can't turn the handle

If the sash is hanging on one hinge and it is not possible to turn the handle, then the door to the balcony was opened in two modes at once. You can fix this problem yourself within a few minutes. We find an opening blocker from the end of the sash, it looks like a tongue, it is located at the end in the middle, by pressing, we bring it to a horizontal position. Press the sash tightly against the frame, turn the handle to the ventilation mode, and then to the opening mode. The sash will snap into place, the handle will turn properly.

Let's summarize

Installing a lock in balcony doors allows, in some cases, to increase comfort, prevent accidental door opening and relieve additional mental stress inherent in suspicious and anxious people, especially if they leave their home for a long time, going on vacation or on a business trip.

Not being a panacea for burglar thieves, a lock in a door handle is sometimes useful, at least its presence does not spoil either the appearance of the door or its functionality.

Source: sambalkon.ru/osteklenie/dveri/zamok-na-plastikovuyu-balkonnuyu-dver.html

Types of locks

Locks for plastic doors are mortise and overhead. Mortise mechanisms are mainly used, which do not spoil the appearance of the door leaf.

According to the locking mechanism, locks are:

• levers - the closing mechanism is formed by several plates;
• cylinder - the face of the lock is a cylinder in which the pins move in a certain order;
• electronic - closed with a key fob, chip, and so on;
• electromagnetic - in addition to the electronic mechanism, they are equipped with magnets that hold the door in a closed position;
• multi-point - at the heart of the locking mechanism there are several elements of different types.

For plastic doors, in most cases, electromagnetic and multi-point locks are used, since with a small design they provide maximum reliability.

All locks for plastic differ from their counterparts in small size and lightweight construction.

Locks installed on balcony doors can be distinguished into a separate category. The lock of the plastic balcony door should be small. In this regard, the following types of products can be used:

• cylinder locks with a small mask;
• latch handles with additional key fixation (installed on most balcony doors);
• magnetic handles-latches. The door is fixed by the action of a strong magnet;
• catches on casters. The roller is under the influence of a spring. When the door is closed, the spring is weakened, and the roller enters the groove specially circled for it, thereby fixing the door.

Balcony locks are not reliable. For additional protection of the apartment from "vents" it is recommended to install a burglar alarm.

Lock selection criteria

Before installing the lock on the door, it is necessary to decide for what purpose its installation is carried out and only then stop at the choice of one type or another. It is also important to consider the size of the locking mechanism, which depends entirely on the type of door leaf installed.

A single-locking mechanism should be installed on those structures that do not need additional protection and where there are no sudden temperature drops. If there is no door closer on the door, then it is recommended to purchase a sash with a latch latch by purchasing an additional push device for it. If the door closer is installed on the canvas, then it is recommended to install a roller latch.

Thus, it will be very easy to open the door, and the presence of a closer will fix it in the closed position.

It is advisable to install a multi-locking mechanism if a plastic door separates a cold and warm room. With the help of this type of construction lock, a reliable clamp will be provided from all sides, because the system is additionally equipped with pins and special strips.

Plastic door lock manufacturers

On the Russian market, the most common locks of the following companies:

• Apex;
• Calais;
• Guardian.

A lock on a plastic door from Apex costs approximately 600-700 rubles (at the time of publication). The company is mainly engaged in the production of multi-stop devices. All products of the Chinese manufacturer are certified in Russia.

It is produced in accordance with GOST, it is distinguished by its durability (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. Products are made of high-strength materials that do not corrode. All devices have a high level of protection against burglary.

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 lineup is constantly changing, adjusting to the needs of customers.

Each manufacturer gives a factory guarantee for their products, which speaks about the quality of the products.

Repair of possible breakdowns of fittings

With fittings, during operation, various kinds of problems may arise. Among all the possible difficulties, the most common are two.

1. If the latch does not fix the position of the door, then a pair of metal washers can be added under its cylinder. If the fixation is correct, but even the lightest wind blows the doors off, another latch should be added.
2. A common problem is a tight latch, which makes it difficult to open and close doors. To get rid of such a problem, it is recommended to lubricate the mechanism with oil.

Correct installation, reduces the likelihood of a latch problem

Sagging doors

To deal with this nuisance, you need to adhere to the following algorithm.

1. Place a mark in the place where the door leaf clings to the frame.
2. Move the door to the opposite side.
3. Using a hex wrench, turn the screw located on the upper hinge clockwise - continue until it is firmly pressed.
4. Carry out similar actions with the lower loop.

The hinges can be adjusted horizontally and vertically

Loss of tightness due to deterioration of the insulation

Fixing this problem is easy enough.

1. First you need to buy a new seal. It should be the same as the spoiled one.
2. The old seal should be removed from the groove with any tool at hand, such as a screwdriver, and put a new one in its place.
3. For better fixation, rubberized glue can be added to the groove.

The seal is a short-lived hardware that needs to be replaced periodically.

Problems opening, closing doors

This problem often occurs when the handle malfunctions, because it:

• pulled too tight;
• does not fully rotate.

To fix the problem, make the horizontal adjustment of the hinges. If there is a malfunction of the handle with a core, you should:

• dismantle every detail of it;
• check how the pin is attached (it connects the handle and the core).

If the connecting pin has any defects, it must be replaced. In some cases, the entire handle needs to be replaced.

If you can't solve the problem on your own, it is better to call the wizard

Installation of an electromagnetic lock

Electricity supply is required to connect the electromagnetic lock. The device is installed as follows:

• as with the installation of other types of locks, at the first stage, the holes are marked for the subsequent fastening of the device. The electromagnetic lock consists of two parts that are tightly adjacent to each other, therefore, the 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 in the upper part 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 is accompanied by a connection instruction, according to which electric wires are started and terminals are connected;
• at the last stage, the connection to the power source is made and the operability of the mechanism is checked. If any problems are found, then steps 3-5 must be checked and, if necessary, corrected.

If desired or necessary, additional devices can be connected to such a lock, for example, a door closer or video intercom.

Installation of a multi-point lock

Multi-point locks are a complete door locking system. It consists of the following elements:

• the main mechanism, which can be of a bolt-on or bolt-free type;
• auxiliary roller or flange lock;
• shtulp, connecting all elements of the castle into a single system;
• movable tire;
• additional trunnions.

Due to the complexity of the device and high accuracy during installation, it is not recommended to install the lock on your own.

Locks for plastic doors are quite diverse. Some of them can be installed independently (mortise lever or cylinder, electromagnetic, and so on), while others (multi-port) only with the help of specialists.

Each lock is unique in its own way and has a high degree of protection. For a long and trouble-free operation of the device, it is recommended to purchase locks from the most famous manufacturers.

Source: furni-info.ru/zamok-dlya-plastikovyh-dverej.html

Installing a latch on a plastic balcony door

Not so long ago, wooden frames were used to glaze window openings and balconies. Such designs had their drawbacks, which over time manifested themselves more and more.

Today, with the development of modern production technologies and the advent of new materials, windows can be varied.

The classic wooden version of the windows has been improved, which allows the product to serve for many years without losing its technical qualities.

Still, the leading places today are occupied by windows and balcony blocks made of modern material - polyvinyl chloride.

When installing a plastic balcony block, you should be very careful about the fittings. It should be very practical and as comfortable as possible. One of the most important parts of the hardware is the latch for the plastic balcony door.

Exterior balcony handle

A special handle is installed on the outside of the balcony door, which serves to conveniently close it. This handle is shaped like a shell and is made of plastic or metal. Place it on a level with a swivel handle or so that it is convenient to close. The handle made of plastic is more pleasant to the touch during cold weather, and the metal handle is more durable, so it will last longer.

Varieties of latches

The latch for a PVC balcony door can be of two types: mechanical and magnetic. The mechanical one is very reliable. It allows you to easily close the system.

In order to open the structure from the outside, it is enough to push it a little. In turn, it will not open from strong air flow. For the production of such a retainer, metal is used.

When installing, it is very important to take care of the handle on the back side - the "smoker's handle", since the plastic door must be slightly pulled towards you to close it so that it snaps into place.

The color of the handle on the outside will depend on the color of the window. It is recommended to install a metal smoker's handle, since it is much stronger and more reliable than a plastic one.

A more interesting solution is the magnetic balcony door latch. Today, the use of such a retainer is more common.

Unlike the previous version, this part allows you to close the plastic system very easily and, which is very important, quietly. Such structures are closed after the exiting person and, in order to tightly close them, minimal effort is required.

The balcony door performs a very important function - keeping warm in the room. This is especially important if there is a smoking person in the family who very often goes to the balcony. Heat loss through a door without a lock will be much more noticeable in winter.

And the presence of a retainer minimizes heat loss through cracks and a not too tight sealant when the plastic system is open.

Possible problems and their elimination

With magnetic balcony latches, there is virtually no question of adjustment. Rather, it concerns locks with a mechanical lock.

The most common cause is a loose spring on the back of the roller or ball. In this case, unscrew the part of the mechanism in which the rotating element is fixed, pull it out, then remove the spring and try to stretch it slightly.

Then reassemble.If the efforts did not bring the desired result, it is worth trying to put one or more washers of a suitable thickness under the spring.

Another malfunction may be the option when, due to the sagging or skewing of the door frame, the fixing element ceases to fall into the groove of the striker. In this case, you should first try to adjust the fastening of the hinges, eliminating the resulting distortion or sagging. If this does not help, you will have to reinstall the locking bar with the groove.

Installation of a magnetic latch on a plastic door

It is enough just to carry out the installation of the latch yourself. The main thing is to choose the right option. This latch consists of two magnetic plates that are attached to the same level of the balcony door and to the frame. When buying a retainer, it is recommended to immediately purchase a new smoker's pen. It is worth giving preference to aluminum options.

This handle is coated with a very good metal powder paint, which retains its appearance for a long time. In order to install the handle on a plastic door, you must use two self-tapping screws of the appropriate diameter and suitable length, which should not be more than 19 mm. A metal plate is attached to the end part of the door at the handle level.

To do this, a hole is made in the canvas, after which a self-tapping screw is screwed into it, which will hold the metal plate. The second part of the latch, the magnetic block, is attached directly to the balcony frame. It is a metal case with a magnet inside.

In order to install a latch on a door, you must use a certain inventory:

• tape measure and pencil for basting;
• screwdrivers of several shapes and sizes;
• screwdriver;
• self-tapping screws of the required length and suitable diameter.

The main advantages of the magnetic latch are obvious. Due to the fact that its surfaces do not rub against each other, the retainer practically does not wear out and remains in excellent condition throughout the entire service life.

If there are cases of door subsidence, the striker continues to hold it securely. This is due to the fact that the metal bar will still touch the magnet even if it is incorrectly positioned.

During the installation of such a clamp, there is no need to cut any objects into the canvas. Such a latch will allow you to open and close the door completely silently.

It is not recommended to install it on metal doors, since the power of a small magnet is not enough to hold the large weight of such a structure in a closed state.

The main types of fittings

High-quality PVC door hardware does not have to be expensive. These details can be:

• purchase ready-made
• order individually.

Hardware for plastic doors can be different

Often, fittings are a standard part that is designed for classic operating and installation conditions. When purchasing such products, you need to familiarize yourself with the main manufacturers of accessories, which produce quality products. The quality of production affects the functionality and durability of the part. If it fails, you can purchase a domestic analogue or an original product from the manufacturer.

Thanks to a wide range of fittings, you can easily find a replacement for an old or broken part

Latches

The latch is a kind of latch. It provides tight fixation of the doors in the closed and ajar positions. Latches are different, it all depends on the method of their attachment.

The latch is an indispensable part of a plastic door.

Table 1. Main types of latches

The main types of latches

Instruction number 1 - self-installation of the magnetic latch

You can install the latch yourself, without the help of a specialist. First you need to purchase the mechanism itself and determine the place where it will be located.

Step # 1 - installing the first plate on the door

When a place has been chosen for the location of the latch, you need to drill a hole in the door leaf with a drill. Then screw a self-tapping screw into it, on which the magnetic latch will be fixed.

The place for the latch is selected individually, usually in the middle of the door

Step # 2 - attaching the plate to the frame

Now you need to attach a metal case with a magnet to the frame. It will also need to make holes for self-tapping screws at the same level as the latch.

It is important that the magnetic catches are installed at the same level

Step number 3 - checking the latch functionality

After installing the second magnetic plate, you need to check the functioning of the entire latch. This is quite simple to accomplish. You need to try to close and open the door. If the latch is installed incorrectly, it will be problematic to close the door. In the event that any problems have arisen, but it is impossible to fix them on your own, it is better to call the wizard.

Video - Installing a balcony latch and hook

Pens

The handles are designed for opening and fixing the leaves in different positions. They relate to:

• the most mobile;
• frequently used.

Therefore, they are more susceptible to stress, which is why more often other parts become unusable. The handles are installed at a certain height of the door and often, if they fail, they need to be replaced, not repaired.

Handles are single-sided and double-sided

Table 2. Main types of pens

The main types of handles for PVC doors

A variety of materials can be used to make pens. The most popular are:

• metal;
• plastic.

Hinges

They refer to movable elements for fixing doors to the door frame, on which the strength of the entire structure directly depends. The hinges must be of high quality, since they bear the bulk of the load. The standard model is capable of supporting a weight of about 150 kilograms. It must be borne in mind - the hinges require regular maintenance. They should be constantly lubricated, each of its elements should be adjusted - this directly affects the durability of the part.

Prices for Different Kinds of Silicone Rubber Seal Lubricants

Silicone grease for rubber seals

Since each door model may differ in weight, the hinges must be properly installed and adjusted.Only after fine tuning will they provide a good pressure on the flaps without leaving a gap between them. Therefore, it is rather difficult to configure the loops on your own; it is better to use the services of a specialist.

The hinges must support the weight of the door

Seals

The structure will not be airtight without the use of seals, regardless of its quality. They are attached around the entire perimeter of the frame to ensure a tight closing of the sashes. Seals are made of rubber, and their surface is covered with special grooves. Quite often, a manufacturer's label is present on such a part. When caring for seals, it is important not to use aggressive chemical compounds.

It should be taken into account - rubber is unstable to prolonged exposure to external negative factors, therefore it often becomes unusable. If defects appear on the seals, they need to be replaced, otherwise the tightness of the plastic doors will be broken.

The tightness of the doors is affected by the quality of the seals and the correctness of their installation.

Prices for self-adhesive seals for windows

Self-adhesive sealant for windows

Combs

The combs are made in the form of a lock and are designed to fix the doors in the open or closed position. Made from:

• plastic;
• metal.

This type of fittings does not differ in its large size, it is a supporting part that does not allow doors to slam in the event of a draft. The comb allows you to keep the doors open to ventilate the room. However, pets or small children cannot go out through them.

Combs are a great way to protect doors from draft damage.

Door closers

The purpose of the door closer is to smoothly close the doors, prevent them from slamming and ensure a snug fit to the base. Such fittings are:

• bottom;
• hidden;
• external.

Thanks to the door closers, the doors are protected from mechanical damage (due to strong impacts on the frame) and drafts

Such fittings provide a smooth and silent door closing. Despite its external complexity, the door closer is a simple design, consisting of:

• hulls;
• spring system.

The speed of movement of the closer can be changed independently

Closer choice

When choosing such accessories, the following criteria must be taken into account.

1. Each type of door closer is designed for different loads. It is better to choose a structure that can withstand the greatest weight.
2. You need to make sure that the location of the plastic door provides a place for the closer.
3. Do not buy a door closer that is too large - it must match the dimensions of the doors.
4. If you need accessories for a plastic entrance door, it is better to choose a closer that is able to withstand temperature extremes.

A correctly selected door closer will last for a long period, will not get out of the general style of the room

Instruction number 2 - self-installation of the closer

Installing a closer is not difficult. Therefore, you can install such a part yourself, without resorting to the services of a specialist.

Step number 1 - determine the side in which the door will open

Since the door closer consists of two parts, you need to determine which one will be attached to the frame.

1. If the doors open towards themselves, then you need to attach the device to them, and the lever to the frame.
2. If the doors open outward, then the lever must be attached to the doors and the system to the frame.

It is important to install the closer on the right side.

Step number 2 - installation of all parts

The kit for the closer must be accompanied by parts for its fastening. You can screw the screws with a screwdriver or screwdriver.

Closer installation example

Step number 3 - checking the performance of the structure

After installation, you need to double-check the performance of the structure, if you need to adjust it.

If you cannot install the fittings yourself, it is better to use the services of a master

Cordless screwdriver prices

Cordless screwdriver

Video - Installation instructions for ASSA ABLOY DC120 door closer

Stoppers

Stoppers are designed to fix the doors in any required position. They are made of plastic. They are simple in design. They are installed between the frame and the canvas, the springs provide fixation.

Stoppers are ideal for plastic balcony doors

Retainers

They come in the form:

• latch;
• an element inside the handle;
• special handle.

Espagnolettes can be installed on the inside of the door, ensuring it is securely fixed in the desired position. This is a fairly simple and reliable design that provides good sealing. Despite its simplicity, the bolt has a long service life. The latches can be equipped with an additional lock for turnkey closing.

Espagnolettes have one significant drawback - when the structure is skewed, they cannot correctly perform their functions.

A handle with a built-in lock will be relevant for a plastic entrance door. This design is appropriate in a private house; it is better to choose a different type of door for an apartment. When choosing such a handle, you need to take into account - it is not a full-fledged latch, it is rather an additional element for pressing the sash, helping other latches to work. The main advantage is the ability to install child protection, which does not allow the child to open the doors without the help of their parents.

Locks

Such a detail should be designed specifically for PVC doors. Locks that are installed on other models are not suitable - their installation will damage the plastic sheet.

A lock is a mandatory type of hardware for entrance doors.

Table 3. Classification of locks for PVC doors

Also, castles are:

• levers;
• cylinder.

A lever lock is harder to break than a cylinder lock