How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is a vital element of home security. If it becomes difficult to lock, it can be a hassle.
A stubborn lock can be caused by misalignment, or simply wear and wear and tear. It may be possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating the lock. If these troubleshooting methods aren't working, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock can become difficult to open and close because of dust, dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication can help to prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stuck. This will help you save money on repair patio door Lock costs and prolong the longevity of your door.
The first step in the process is to clean the lock cylinder. Use WD-40 or an equivalent penetrating spray do this. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole and then turn the key to spread the oil. Avoid using household oils or other solvents which could harm your locks, and make sure you spray some on the key itself as well.
After cleaning your lock cylinder, it's time to grease. You can apply dry lubricants such as graphite powder or sprays of silicone. Graphite powder lasts for a long time and doesn't swell up like liquid lubricants do, which is why it's a great option to lubricate locks that are sticky. Silicone sprays are able to endure temperatures of minus 0 degrees and are resistant to water. However, they may require several coats to be efficient.
You can also apply sprays to de-icer your lock, which is specifically made for colder weather and will lift frost tilt and slide patio door repairs ice off the lock mechanism. This will help you unlock your lock, and then unlock it with ease.
How often you need to lubricate your locks will depend on environmental factors. A coastal location will expose your door to salty air and cause corrosion, and temperature variations can affect the efficiency of your lock. It is recommended to ensure that your locks are lubricated at least two times a year or more often if your area has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door will function properly for the years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock does not perform as it should, one or more of its components may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair of a damaged patio door lock will prevent further damage and ensure that your doors are secure. You can repair a patio door that is locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism, or replacing the lock cylinder.
Start by examining the exterior and interior of the lock for indications of damage or misalignment. Patio door locks may expand or contract depending on the weather, and they may even shift over time. This slight shift can cause the locking mechanisms to not align properly and lead to problems with opening or closing the door.
Then, check the lock cylinder to find any obstructions in the keyway hole. A corroded or obstructed lock cylinder could be difficult to open and can cause damage to the cam, latch springs or the lock pins. If the cylinder does not fit easily, you can clear any obstructions by using a pair of picklocks and tweezers. If the issue continues, you may need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it in order to identify the root of the problem.
If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed into the lock body then you can loosen it by removing the screw that is flat inside the faceplate of the cylinder. Unscrewing this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could aid in restoring alignment.
Look over the cylinder for a tiny tab that moves up and down using the key, usually towards the very end. This tiny clip, also known as a "release Tab" will stop the cylinder from sliding patio door lock repair into the lock body completely. This tab can be removed using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed and then it can be inserted.
If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you may be able to restore the proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate, and the knob or handle can be pushed in and withdrawn. After you have restored the proper alignment, you can reassemble the lock and test it for functioning. If your patio door lock is still difficult to use, it's a sign that another component such as the latch spring or latch is worn or damaged and will need to be replaced.
Lock the Screws
Patio door locks are susceptible to damage from regular use, extreme temperatures dust and dirt. If not properly maintained these delicate components can get worn out and cause your door to fail to lock properly. Fortunately, most lock issues can be fixed easily with a few simple maintenance steps.
The first thing you need to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt that may be present. Then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can keep moving parts running smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, however they can attract dust and debris which could cause issues.
If your patio door has a security foot lock, make sure the lock is aligned with the strike plate. In most cases this will require you to adjust the screws that attach your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. To adjust the footlock you need to loosen the screw using the help of a Robertson screwdriver and gently pull it up or down. Once the adjustment is done you can tighten the screw.
The most frequent issue when it comes to repairing patio door handles is the misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This could be due to normal wear and tear or it could be that the latch is set higher or lower than it ought to be.
Then, remove the handle from the old one and find the bolts or screws holding it in the first place. Make sure to keep track of these since you will require them when installing the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle and then slide the new spindle into place on the inside of the door, making sure that it is aligned with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Reinstall the interior and external handles once the spindle has been installed. Make sure that they are aligned properly with the screws or bolts holding them in place.
After you've made any needed adjustments to your patio door, be sure to test it by locking and closing the door. If everything is in proper alignment, the door will open and close smoothly without any additional force. If you're still having problems it may be necessary to move your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks still not working, it might be time to replace the lock. Replacing a lock is a moderately easy home improvement task that many homeowners can do by themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door completely open and then removing the current lock from the inside of the door. Carefully study how the existing lock is screwed into the door and jamb so that you can determine the kind of lock you'll have to purchase.
Before you install the new latch take off the screws that secure the strike plate (the part of the lock that's set on the outside of the door frame) and adjust it vertically or horizontally to align it with the hole in the jamb in the door. After you've repositioned the latch plate then tighten the screws and screw it into place.
When all the components of your patio door are moved or replaced, you can reassemble them and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch. Make sure it is fitted correctly and is secured when the door is closed. If it does the lock will be able to latch onto the door. If it does, your patio door lock is now working as it should and will provide the security and privacy you've come expect from your doors.
Like other parts of your home your patio doors also need to be properly aligned for them to function efficiently. Over time, heat and cold weather, dirt and debris, and other factors can cause the frames, hinges, and locking mechanism to shift. The wrongly aligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are like trying to put a key in the wrong keyhole. It's not working. You can fix the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these simple steps. Do yourself a big pat on the back for taking on the job and reclaiming your patio door's closed position! We're betting you won't face any more trouble opening or closing the door from here on. Have fun! We're here to assist if you need any assistance or have any questions.