How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is an essential part of home security. If it is difficult to lock, it can be frustrating.
A locked that isn't working properly could be the result of misalignment or simply wear and tear. It is possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting it 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 can become difficult to open and close because of dust, dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication routine can stop your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, thereby saving you money on repairs and helping your door reach its maximum lifespan.
To begin, you'll have to clean the lock's the cylinder. To do this, you'll need a spray bottle of penetrating oil, such as WD-40. Spray a small amount of it into the keyhole and then move the key through and out to spread the oil. Do not use household oil or other solvents that can harm your locks. Spray a little on the key.
When your lock's cylinder is clean and lubricated, it's time to apply. You can apply a silicone spray or a dry lubricant such as graphite powder. Graphite powder lasts for a long time and doesn't attract dust like liquid lubricants do, which is why it's an excellent choice to lubricate locks that are sticky. Silicone sprays can withstand freezing temperatures and are impervious to water. However, they might require multiple coats to be effective.
You can also use sprays for de-icing, which is specifically made for cold weather and can remove frost and ice from the lock mechanism. This will help you unlock your lock, and then unlock it with ease.
The climate will determine how often you should lubricate locks. The location of your door will affect its performance. A coastal location can expose it to salty air which can cause corrosion. The most common rule of thumb is to oil your locks twice per year or more often if you reside in an area that experiences extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door will function properly for long time to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock does not perform as it should there's a chance that one or more of its components could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair of a faulty patio door lock can avoid further damage and ensure that your doors are safe. To fix a locked or unlocked patio door, you can tighten loose screws or adjust the lock mechanism or replace the lock cylinder.
Begin by inspecting patio door lock repairs near me RepairMyWindowsAndDoors and the interior of the lock to see whether there are any indications of damage or misalignment. Often, patio door locks expand and contract in temperatures that are cold or hot and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to stop aligning correctly and lead to problems with opening or closing the door.
Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. An obstructed or corroded lock cylinder can be difficult to open and could eventually cause damage to the pins of the lock, cams or latch springs. If the cylinder doesn't fit easily, you can clear any obstructions by using a pair of tweezers and a picklock. If the problem persists you might need to remove the cylinder to determine the source.
If the lock cylinder is not been screwed onto the lock body and is loose, it can be loosened by unscrewing the flat screw on the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could even aid in restoring alignment.
Examine the cylinder for a tiny tab that moves upwards and downwards with the key, usually towards the end. This tiny clip, also known as a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. The tab can be moved back using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed, then it can be inserted.
If the lock cylinder is stuck, you can restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt is engaged with the strike plate. The knob or handle may then be pushed and withdrawn. Reassemble the lock after you have restored proper alignment. Check it out for its functionality. If your patio door lock still isn't working it's likely that a different component, such as the latch spring or latch requires replacement.
Make sure you tighten the Screws
Over time, frequent use temperatures, cold and hot weather dust, dirt, and can wear down patio door locks. If not properly maintained the delicate parts could wear out and cause your door to not lock properly. Fortunately, the majority of lock issues can be fixed easily with just a few simple maintenance steps.
The first thing to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to get rid of any dust or dirt that might be present, and then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning some silicone-based lubricant will help keep the moving parts operating smoothly and effectively. Avoid lubricants that have oil bases since they could draw dust and dirt which could cause more issues.
If your patio door comes with a security footlock, ensure that the footlock is aligned properly with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will only require adjustment of the screws that hold the foot lock to the patio door frame. Loosen the screw using the Robertson screwdriver, and then gently push it up or down to adjust the foot lock if needed. Once the adjustment has been completed then tighten the screw.
When it comes time to repair the handle of a patio door, the most common problem is misalignment between the strike plate and latch. This can be caused by normal wear and tear, or the latch could be set lower or higher than it is supposed to be.
Then, take off the old handle and locate the bolts or screws holding it in the place. Keep in mind the bolts or screws because you will need them to attach the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle and then slide the new one into the door on the side 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're aligned properly with the screws or bolts holding them in place.
After you've made any needed adjustments to your patio door, make sure to test it by closing and locking the door. If everything is in proper alignment, the door should be able to open and close smoothly, without any additional force. If you're having difficulty, you might need to adjust the strike plate or latch or the lock's cylinder might be damaged and need to be replaced.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks are not working, it might be time to replace the lock. Installing a new lock is a fairly simple home improvement project that most homeowners can tackle themselves. Start by sliding the patio doors completely out and unscrewing your existing lock from the inside of the door. Review the lock to determine the type of lock you'll need.
Before installing the new latch remove the screws that hold the strike plate (the part of the lock that's mounted on the outside of the door frame) and then adjust it horizontally or vertically to align it with the hole in the jamb of the door. Once you've repositioned the strike plate, secure it in place and tighten the screws.
After all the 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, check the latch to make sure that it fits and is able to catch the latch's hasp when your door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock has been put in place correctly and is able to give you the security and privacy you've come to expect from.
Like other parts of your home the patio doors have to be aligned properly for they to function effectively. Over time, heat and cold weather dirt and debris and other elements can cause the hinges, door frame, and the locking mechanism to shift. When these elements are misaligned it's similar to trying to fit a key in the wrong hole for a key: It just doesn't work. You can solve the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these simple steps. You should pat yourself on your back for tackling the job and reclaiming your patio door's closed position! We're betting you won't face any trouble opening or closing the door from now to the end. Good luck! We're here if you have any questions or concerns.