How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is an essential part of home security. If it is difficult to lock, it can be frustrating.
In many instances, a lock that is difficult to open is due to an incorrect alignment or simply wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or changing its position can help restore its function. If these troubleshooting methods aren't working, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock can become hard to open and close because of dust, dirt and grime. A regular cleaning and lubrication routine will stop your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, thereby saving you money on repairs and allowing your door to enjoy its maximum lifespan.
To begin, you will have to clean the lock the cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or another penetrating spray to accomplish this. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole, and then turn the key to distribute the oil. Avoid using household oils or other solvents which could harm your locks, and make sure to spray a bit on the key itself.
After cleaning your lock cylinder, it is time to lubricate. You can use dry lubricants such as graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite is a long-lasting lubricant that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid fluids. It's an excellent choice to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand moist and freezing temperatures, however it might require multiple coats to be effective.
You can also apply sprays to de-icer your lock specially made for cold weather and will loosen ice and frost from the lock mechanism. This will help you unlock your lock, and then unlock it with ease.
How often you should lubricate your locks will depend on environmental factors. The location of your door will affect its performance. A location that is near the ocean can expose it to salty air, which could cause corrosion. It is recommended that you ensure that your locks are lubricated at least once 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 doesn't function properly it could be because one or more of its components could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repair of a damaged lock on your patio door will prevent further damage and ensure the security of your doors. You can fix the patio door that is locked or locked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism, or replacing the lock cylinder.
Begin by looking at the exterior and inside of the lock for signs of damage or misalignment. The majority of patio door locks expand and contract during temperatures that are cold or hot and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to be misaligned and cause issues when opening or closing the door.
Examine the keyway hole of the lock cylinder. A damaged or corroded lock cylinder might be difficult to open and may cause damage to the cam, latch springs or lock pins. If the cylinder isn't fitting easily, you can get rid of any obstructions with a pair of picklocks and tweezers. If the issue continues, you may need to take out the cylinder to determine the cause.
If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the lock body then you can loosen it by unscrewing an elongated screw within the faceplate of the cylinder. By loosening this screw, it will allow you to move the cylinder around and could help restore proper alignment.
Look for a small tab that moves with the key. It is usually at the end. This tiny clip, referred to as a "release tab" is what keeps the cylinder from sliding into the body of the lock. A standard key will slide this tab back to allow the cylinder to be released and allow it to be removed and put back in.
If your lock cylinder is stuck, you might be able to restore the proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt connects with the strike plate, and the knob or handle can be pulled in and out. After you have restored the proper alignment, put back together the lock and test its performance. If your patio door lock is still difficult to use, it's a sign that a different component, such as the latch or latch spring is worn or damaged and will require replacement.
Lock the Screws
Over time, regular use temperatures, cold and hot weather, dirt, and dust can take their toll on patio door locks. These delicate components can be damaged if not maintained properly, causing your door to stop locking properly. Most lock issues can be fixed with a few simple 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 might be found. Then dry sliding glass door repair . After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts operating smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants that contain oil bases, they could draw dust and dirt which can cause further issues.
Then, if your patio door is equipped with an electronic foot lock for security be sure that the foot lock is aligned with the strike plate. In the majority of instances, this will require adjustment of the screws that hold the foot lock to the frame of the patio door. To adjust the footlock you need to loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver and gently pull it upwards or downwards. After the adjustment is completed you can tighten the screw.
When it comes to repairing the handle on a patio door, the most common problem is misalignment between the latch and strike plate. This could be due to the wear and tear of everyday use or it could be due to the fact that the latch is positioned higher or lower than it ought to be.
Then, take out the handle that was previously used and locate the screws or bolts holding it in the place. Make sure to keep track of them as you will require them when installing the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle and place the new one in place on the interior of the door. Make sure that it is properly aligned with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Once the new spindle has been installed, reinstall the handles on the exterior and interior to ensure that they are aligned with the screws or bolts that hold them in place.
Close and lock the patio door after you have made any necessary adjustments. If the door is properly aligned, it should open and shut without needing any additional force. If you are still having issues it may be necessary to adjust the position of your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the Latch
If your patio door locks not working, it may be time to replace the lock. The replacement of a lock is a fairly simple home improvement project that most homeowners can tackle by themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door open and unscrewing the existing lock from the interior side of the door. Carefully study how the existing lock is screwed to the door and the jamb to get a sense for what 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 positioned on the outside of the door frame) and then adjust it either horizontally or vertically to align it with the hole in the door jamb. Once you have repositioned the latch plate then tighten the screws and screw it in place.
After all components have been repositioned or changed after which you can assemble and secure your patio door as instructed by the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch to ensure that it is in place and fits the latch's hasp when your door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock has been installed correctly and is ready to give you the security and privacy that you've come to expect from.
Patio doors, like other parts of your house, need to be properly aligned to function efficiently. Over time, heat and cold weather dirt and debris and other elements can cause hinges, door frame and locking mechanism to shift slightly. If these components are not aligned it's similar to trying to fit keys into the wrong keyhole: It just doesn't work. If you follow these steps, you can fix a problem that might have seemed unfixable. You should pat yourself on the back for taking on the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're betting you won't face any trouble opening or closing the door from now on. Best of luck! We're here for you if there are any questions or concerns.