How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is vital to home security. It can be difficult when it isn't easy to lock.
A stubborn lock can be the result of misalignment or even wear and wear and tear. It may be possible to restore the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these methods of troubleshooting aren't working, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock may be difficult to open and close due to dirt, dust 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 costs and prolong the life of your door.
The first step is to clean your lock cylinder. To do this, you'll need a spray bottle of penetrating oil, like WD-40. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole, and then rotate the key to spread it. Do not use household oil or other solvents which could damage your locks. Spray a bit on the key.
After your lock cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. You can apply a silicone spray or dry lubricant such as graphite powder. Graphite is a durable lubricant that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid lubricants. It's an excellent choice for locking lubrication. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand moist and cold temperatures, however they may require several coats to be effective.
You can also use a de-icer spray that is designed for cold weather. It will melt frost and ice off the mechanism of your lock. This will help you unlock your lock and relock it more easily.
How often you have to lubricate your locks will rely on environmental factors. A coastal location exposes your door to salty air and cause corrosion. Temperature variations can influence the efficiency of your lock. It is recommended that you ensure that your locks are lubricated at least once each year, or more often in areas with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can help save costs on repairs, and ensure that they continue to function in a good way for many years.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock does not function properly, one or more of its parts may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of a faulty lock on your patio door could stop further damage and increase the security of your doors. You can repair doors that are locked or locked by tightening loose screws, altering 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. Patio door locks can expand or contract in response to the weather, and they may even shift over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to become misaligned and cause issues when opening or closing the door.
Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. A corroded or obstructed lock cylinder may be difficult to access, and may cause damage to the latch springs, cam, or the lock pins. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you might be able to remove any obstructions using a pair of tweezers or a picklock. If the problem persists you may have to remove the cylinder in order to locate the source.
If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the lock body then you can loosen it by uncrewing an elongated screw within the cylinder faceplate. This screw will allow you rotate the cylinder, and may even help restore the proper alignment.
Check the cylinder for a little tab that moves up and down with the key, generally towards the end. This tiny clip, also known as a "release Tab" is what stops the cylinder from sliding into the lock body all the way. This tab can be moved back by using a standard key. This will allow the cylinder to be taken out and then reinserted.
If the lock cylinder is stuck it is possible to restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt engages the strike plate. The handle or knob can then be pushed, and pulled back. After you have restored the proper alignment, reassemble the lock and test it for functioning. If your patio door lock isn't working properly, it is likely that an additional component such as the latch spring or latch must be replaced.
Lock the Screws
The locks on patio doors can be damaged by regular use, extremes of temperature dust, dirt and. If not properly maintained these delicate components can wear down and cause your door to not lock properly. Most lock issues can be repaired with a few easy steps.
Clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to get rid of any dust or dirt that may be present, and then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount silicone-based lubricant will help keep the moving components functioning smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants that have oil bases because they may attract dust and other debris and cause additional problems.
Next, if your patio door is equipped with an electronic foot lock for security ensure that the foot lock is aligned with the strike plate. In most cases, this will require you to adjust the screws that hold your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. To adjust the foot lock you need to loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver and gently pull it upwards or downwards. Once the adjustment has been completed you can tighten the screw.
The most frequent issue when it comes to fixing patio door handles is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This could be caused by wear and tear, or the latch could be set above or below where it should be.
Then, take off the handle from the old one and locate the bolts or screws that hold it in the first place. Keep in mind the bolts or screws, because you will need them for the installation of the new handle. Then, remove the spindle that was in use and slide the new one in place on the interior of the door. Make sure that it is aligned properly with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Reinstall the exterior and interior handles after the spindle has 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 properly aligned, it will open and close smoothly without the need for any additional force. If you are still having issues you may have to move your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks don't work, it may be time to replace the latch. Installing a new lock is a relatively simple home improvement project that a majority of homeowners can complete by themselves. Start by sliding the patio door all the way open and unscrewing the existing lock from the interior side of the door. Examine the lock you have to determine the type of lock that you'll require.
Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws that hold the strike plate. This is the portion of the lock that is mounted on the edges of the frame of the door. Adjust it horizontally or in the vertical direction so that it is aligned with the latch hole. After you've adjusted the strike plate, screw it into place and tighten the screws.
When RepairMyWindowsAndDoors of your patio door are moved or replaced, you can reassemble them and secure them as instructed by the manufacturer. After you're done, test the latch to make sure that it fits and catches the latch's hasp when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is now functioning as it should and will give you the security and privacy you've come to expect from your home's doors.
Like other areas of your home must be aligned correctly to function efficiently. Over time, heat or cold, dirt and debris can cause the hinges and the frame of the door to shift. If these parts aren't aligned it's like trying to insert a key in the wrong keyhole: It just doesn't work. You can solve the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these easy steps. Give yourself a pat on the back for taking on the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're sure you won't have any more trouble opening or closing the door from here on. Good luck! We're here to assist in case you require any assistance or have questions.