How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is an essential part of home security. If it is difficult to lock, it can be a nightmare.
In most instances, a locked that is not working is the result of misalignment or simple wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or adjusting its position may aid in restoring its functionality. If these solutions aren't working, you can replace both the mortise and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dust, dirt and grime can make it difficult to open or close the door lock. Regular cleaning and lubrication could aid in preventing your security device from becoming stiff or stuck. This will save you money in repair costs and prolong the life of your door.
To begin, you will have to clean the lock cylinder. To do this, you'll need a spray bottle of penetrating oil such as WD-40. Spray a small amount of it into the keyhole, then work the key through and out to spread the oil. Do not use solvents like household oil or other, as they can damage your locks. Spray a bit on the key.
After cleaning your lock cylinder it's time to grease. You can use an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant such as graphite powder. Graphite is a durable lubricant that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid lubricants. It's a great option to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays can withstand freezing temperatures and are impervious to water. However, they may need multiple coats in order to be effective.
You can also apply sprays to de-icer your lock that is made for cold weather and will remove frost and ice from the lock mechanism. This will help you unlock your lock and then lock it more easily.
How often you need to lubricate your locks will depend on the environment. A location with a coastline exposes your door to salty air, which can cause corrosion, and temperature fluctuations can also impact the performance of your lock. The standard rule of thumb is to grease your locks at least twice a year, or more frequently when you live in a region that has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure that your patio door continues to function as it should for many the years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock doesn't perform as it should there's a chance that one or more of its components could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair of a faulty patio door lock can avoid additional damage and ensure that your doors are secure. To fix a locked or unlocked patio door, tighten loose screws and adjust the lock mechanism, or replace the lock cylinder.
Start by checking the exterior and the inside of the lock to see whether there are signs of damage or misalignment. Patio door locks can expand or contract in response to the weather, and may even shift over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to be misaligned and cause problems when opening or closing the door.
Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. A corroded or blocked cylinder may be difficult to open and may eventually cause damage to the pins, cams or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you might be able to dislodge any obstruction using a pair of tweezers or a picklock. If the issue persists, you may need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it in order to identify the root of the problem.
If the lock cylinder is not been secured to the lock body, it can be loosen by unscrewing the screw on the faceplate of the cylinder. Unscrewing this screw will allow you to move the cylinder around and could help restore proper alignment.
Look for glass doors repair that moves with the key. It's usually located at the end. This small clip, also called a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body in the entire way. A standard key will move the tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and then reinserted.
If your lock cylinder has become stuck and is not aligned, you can fix it by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt engages the strike plate. The knob or handle can then be pulled and withdrawn. Once you have restored the proper alignment, reassemble the lock and test its functionality. If the lock on your patio door isn't working It is likely that another component like the latch or latch spring needs to be replaced.
Lock the Screws
The locks on patio doors can be damaged by regular usage, extreme temperatures dust and dirt. These delicate parts can be damaged if they are not properly maintained, leading to your door to stop locking properly. Most lock issues can be solved with just a few steps.
You should first clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust that may be present, and then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning the components, a small amount silicone-based lubricant will help keep the moving parts functioning efficiently and smoothly. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, however they could attract dust and debris that can lead to further issues.
If your patio door comes with a security footlock, ensure that the footlock is aligned correctly with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will require adjusting the screws that secure the foot lock to the patio door frame. Loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver, and then gently move it up or down to adjust the foot lock as required. After the adjustment is completed then tighten the screw.
The most frequent issue when it comes to fixing patio door handles is the misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This can be caused by the wear and tear of everyday use, or it could simply be that the latch is placed higher or lower than it ought to be.
Then, take off the handle from the old one and locate the screws or bolts holding it in the place. Keep in mind the bolts or screws, because you will need them to install the new handle. Next, remove the old spindle, and then slide the new spindle into place on the side of the door, making sure that it is aligned with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Install the exterior and interior handles once the spindle has been installed. Make sure that they are aligned properly with the screws or bolts to secure them.
Close and lock the patio door after you have made any adjustments that are required. If everything is in proper alignment, the door should open and close smoothly without any additional force. If you're still experiencing difficulty, you might need to adjust the latch or strike plate, or the lock cylinder may be damaged and require to be replaced.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks are still not working, it might be time to replace the lock. Replacing a lock is a fairly simple home improvement project that a majority of homeowners can complete by themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door open and unscrewing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Be sure to study the way in which the current lock is screwed into the door and the door jamb to determine the type of lock you'll need purchase.
Before you install the new latch, loosen the screws securing the strike plate (the part of the lock that's positioned on the outside of the door frame) and adjust it either horizontally or vertically to align it with the latch hole in the jamb of the door. Once you have repositioned the latch plate, tighten the screws and fix it with screws.
When all the components of your patio door are moved or replaced, you can reassemble them and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. Once you're finished, test the latch. Make sure it is fitted correctly and is secured when the door is shut. If it does, your patio door lock is functioning as it should and will give you the security and privacy you've come to expect from your doors.
Like other parts of your home your patio doors also need to be properly aligned for they to function effectively. Over time, heat and cold weather, dirt and debris, and other elements can cause frames, hinges, and locking mechanism to shift slightly. Incorrectly aligned hinges, door frames, and locking mechanisms are similar to trying to put keys in the wrong keyhole. It's not working. You can solve the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these simple steps. So go ahead and give yourself an ovation for tackling this challenge and regaining your patio door's lock position! We're betting you'll have no issues opening or closing your patio door again. Best of luck! We're here for you if there are any questions or concerns.