How to repair patio Door lock a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is a vital element of home security. It can be a hassle if it isn't easy to lock.
A locked that isn't working properly could be caused by misalignment or even simple wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or changing its position may help restore its function. If these troubleshooting techniques fail, you may need to replace both the mortise as well as the handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open and close a door lock. A regular cleaning and lubrication routine will keep your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, thereby saving you money on repair bills and allowing your door to reach its maximum lifespan.
The first step in the process is to clean your lock's cylinder. To do this, use a spray can of penetrating oil such as WD-40. Spray a small amount of it into the keyhole, then work the key into and out to distribute the oil. Do not use household oil or other solvents which could damage your locks. Spray a bit on the key.
After cleaning your lock cylinder, it's time to lubricate. You can apply dry lubricants such as graphite powder or sprays of silicone. Graphite is a long-lasting lubricant that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid oils. It's a great choice for locking lubrication. Silicone sprays are water-resistant and can withstand both humid and freezing temperatures, however it may require several coats to be effective.
You can also use sprays for de-icing that is made for cold weather and can lift frost and ice off the lock mechanism. A couple of sprays will allow your lock unlock and then lock more easily.
How often you have to lubricate your locks will rely on the environmental conditions. A location near the coast will expose your door to salty air, which can cause corrosion, and temperature changes can influence the performance of your lock. It is recommended to regularly lubricate your locks at least twice a year or more often if your area has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks will save costs on repairs, and ensure that it will continue to function properly for a long time.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't working properly, it could be that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair of a damaged patio door lock can avoid additional damage and ensure that your doors are safe. You can fix the patio door that is locked or locked by tightening loose screws, altering the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder.
Start by checking the exterior and interior of the lock to see whether there are any indications of damage or misalignment. Often, patio door locks expand and contract in warm or cold weather, and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to become misaligned and cause problems when opening or closing the door.
Then, look over the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder can be difficult to open and may eventually cause damage to the pins, cams or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't fitting easily, you can clear any obstructions using a pair tweezers and a lock. If the issue continues then you'll need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it in order to identify the source of the obstruction.
If the lock cylinder isn't secured to the body of the lock you can loosen it by unscrewing a flat screw inside the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw will let you to rotate the cylinder and may even help restore the proper alignment.
Look for a small tab that moves with the key. It is usually at the end. This little clip, called a "release tab" is what keeps the cylinder from sliding all the way into the body of the lock. This tab can be moved back with a standard key to allow the cylinder to be taken out and then reinserted.
If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you may be able to restore the proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt engages with the strike plate, and the handle or knob can be pushed in and pulled out. Reassemble the lock once you have restored the proper alignment. Test it for functionality. If your patio door lock is still difficult to use, it's likely that a different component, such as the latch or latch spring is damaged or worn out and may require replacement.
Tighten the Screws
Over time, the use of regular as well as cold and hot weather dust, dirt and even dirt can cause damage to patio door locks. These delicate parts can be damaged if not properly maintained, leading to your door to stop locking properly. Fortunately, most lock issues can be fixed easily with just a few simple maintenance steps.
Clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to get rid of any dust or dirt that might be present, and then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving components functioning smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases because they may draw dust and dirt and cause additional issues.
If your patio door repair company door has a security foot lock, make sure the foot lock is properly aligned with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will require changing the screws that attach the foot lock to the frame of your patio door. To adjust the footlock simply loosen the screw using the help of a Robertson screwdriver and gently pull it upwards or downwards. Once the adjustment is complete you can tighten the screw.
The most frequent issue in the repair of patio door handles is misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This can be caused by normal wear and tear or it could be due to the fact that the latch is placed higher or lower than it ought to be.
Then, take out the old handle and locate the bolts or screws holding it in the first place. Keep on track of the bolts or screws, as you will require them to install the new handle. Next, remove the old spindle, then slide the new one into place on the inside of the door, making sure that it is aligned with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Once the new spindle is in place put back the interior and exterior handles to ensure that they are aligned with the screws or bolts which hold them in place.
Once you've made any necessary adjustments to your patio door, be sure to test it by locking and closing the door. If the door is correctly aligned, it should be able to open and shut smoothly without needing any additional force. If you're having difficulty, you might need to reposition 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 could be time to replace the lock. Installing a new lock is a relatively simple home improvement project that a majority of homeowners can complete themselves. Begin by sliding the patio doors all the way out and then removing your existing lock on the inside of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed into both the door and the jamb so that you can get a sense for what kind of lock you'll need to purchase.
Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws that secure the strike plate. This is the part of the lock that is positioned on the edge of the frame of the door. Adjust it horizontally or in the vertical direction to align it with the holes in the latch. Once you have repositioned the latch plate you can tighten the screws, then screw it into place.
After all components have been repositioned or changed after which you can assemble and secure your patio door in accordance with the instructions given by the manufacturer. Once you're finished testing the latch. Make sure it is fitted correctly and that it is able to latch when the door is shut. If it does, then your patio door lock has been put in place correctly and is able to give you the security and privacy you've come to anticipate from.
As with other parts of your home the patio doors have to be properly aligned for they to function effectively. Over time, heat, cold, dirt, and debris can cause the frames and hinges to shift. If these parts aren't aligned it's similar to trying to fit a key into the wrong keyhole: It just doesn't work. By following these simple steps, you will be able to fix a problem that might have appeared to be unfixable. So, give yourself a pat on the back for tackling this task and regaining your patio door's lock position! We bet that you'll have no issues opening or closing your patio door. Good luck! We are here to assist if you need any assistance or have questions.