How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is an essential part of home security. It can be a hassle if it isn't easy to lock.
In most instances, a lock that is difficult to open is caused by the wrong alignment or just wear and tear. It is possible to restore the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these troubleshooting methods fail, you may replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock may become hard to open and close due to dirt, dust and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication schedule can stop your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, saving your money on repair costs and helping your door reach its maximum lifespan.
The first step in the process is to clean your lock's cylinder. Use WD-40 or a similar penetrating spray to accomplish this. Spray a small amount of it into the keyhole and then move the key into and out to distribute the oil. Avoid using household solvents or other oils that could damage your locks. Make sure to spray a bit on the key itself as well.
Once your lock cylinder is clean and lubricated, it's time to apply. You can apply dry lubricants like graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite is a lubricant that lasts for a long time that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid fluids. It's a great choice for locking lubrication. Silicone sprays can withstand freezing temperatures and are resistant to water. However, they may need multiple coats in order to be efficient.
You can also use sprays to de-icer your lock, which is specifically made for colder weather and will remove frost and ice from the lock mechanism. A few sprays of this will help your lock unlock and then re-lock more easily.
How often you need to lubricate your locks will depend on the environmental conditions. A location with a coastline exposes your door to salty air and cause corrosion. Temperature variations can influence how well your lock works. The most common rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks at least twice a year, or more frequently if you reside in a region that has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can save costs on repairs, and ensure that it continues to function properly for a long time.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't operating correctly, it could indicate that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair of a defective patio door lock can avoid any further damage and ensure your doors are secure. You can repair the 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 inside of the lock to find signs of damage or misalignment. Patio door locks can expand or contract in response to the weather, and might even shift with time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to become misaligned and cause problems when opening or closing the door.
Examine the keyway hole of the lock cylinder. A corroded or obstructed lock cylinder could be difficult to open and can cause damage to the latch springs, cam or the lock pins. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you may be able to dislodge any obstruction using a pair of tweezers or a picklock. If the issue continues then you'll need to remove the cylinder and disassemble it to find the cause of the obstruction.
If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed onto the body of the lock it can be removed by unscrewing the flat screw on the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw lets you to rotate the cylinder and could even aid in restoring the alignment.
Check RepairMyWindowsAndDoors for a tiny tab that can move up and down using the key, typically towards the very end. This tiny clip, also known as a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. A standard key will move this tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and put back in.
If the cylinder of your lock has become stuck it is possible to restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt engages the strike plate. The knob or handle can then be pulled and pulled back. Once you've restored the proper alignment, reassemble the lock and check its functioning. If the lock on your patio door isn't working It is likely that an additional component such as the latch or latch spring needs to be replaced.
Lock the Screws
Locks for patio doors are susceptible to damage from regular use, extremes of temperature dust and dirt. If they are not properly taken care of these delicate components can wear out and cause your door to not lock properly. Fortunately, most lock issues can be easily fixed with just a few simple maintenance steps.
It is recommended to first clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth get rid of any dust or dirt that might be present, and then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts running efficiently and smoothly. Avoid lubricants with oil bases, they could draw dust and dirt that can lead to further issues.
Next, if your patio door is equipped with an electronic foot lock for security, make sure the foot lock is properly aligned with the strike plate. In most instances, this will require adjusting the screws that secure the foot lock to the frame of the patio door. To adjust the foot lock you need to loosen the screw using the help of a Robertson screwdriver and gently pry it upwards or downwards. After the adjustment has been completed, tighten the screw.
The most frequent issue when it comes to repairing patio door handles is the misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This could be due to 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.
Start by removing the handle, then find the bolts or screws which hold it in place. Make sure to keep track of these since you will need them when installing the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle, and then slide the new one into position on the inside of the door, ensuring that it is aligned with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Install the exterior and interior handles once the spindle is been installed. Make sure that they are properly aligned with the bolts or screws holding them in place.
Close and secure the patio door after you have made any adjustments that are required. If the door is correctly aligned, it should open and shut smoothly without needing any additional force. If you're still having trouble then you may need to move the strike plate or latch, or the lock cylinder could be damaged and must be replaced.
Replace the Latch
If your patio door locks still don't work, it may be time to replace the latch. Installing a new lock is a fairly simple home improvement project that a majority of homeowners can tackle by themselves. Begin by sliding the patio doors completely out and then removing your existing lock on the interior of the door. Study the existing lock to determine the type of lock you will need.
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 edge of the door frame) and then adjust it horizontally or vertically to align it with the latch hole in the door jamb. After you've adjusted the latch plate, tighten the screws and screw it in place.
After all components have been repositioned or changed, assemble and secure the patio door according to the instructions of the manufacturer. When you're done testing the latch. Make sure it is fitted correctly and that it is able to latch when the door is shut. If it does, your patio door lock is installed correctly and is ready to give you the security and privacy you have come to expect.
Patio doors, like other parts of your house must be aligned properly to work efficiently. Over time, heat cold, dirt and debris can cause hinges and the frame of the door to shift. If these components are not aligned it's like trying to insert keys into the wrong hole for a key: It just doesn't work. You can fix a problem which seemed impossible by following these easy steps. So, give yourself an award for tackling this task and regaining your patio door's locked position! We're sure you'll not have any issues opening or closing your patio door once more. Have fun! We're here to help if you have any questions or concerns.