How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is vital for home security. It can be frustrating when it isn't easy to lock.
A locked that isn't working properly could be the result of misalignment or even wear and tear. It's possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating the lock. 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 dust, dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication schedule can keep your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving your money on repair costs and allowing your door to enjoy its full lifespan.
The first step is to clean your lock's cylinder. To do this, use a spray can of penetrating oil such as WD-40. Spray a small amount of it into the keyhole and work the key in and out to distribute the oil. Avoid using household oils or other solvents that can damage your locks. Make sure to spray a little on the key itself.
After cleaning Repair My Windows And Doors , it's time to lubricate. You can use a silicone spray or a dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. Graphite is a lubricant that lasts for a long time that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid lubricants. It's a great option to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays are able to endure temperatures of minus 0 degrees and are impervious to water. However, they may require multiple coats to be effective.
You can also apply de-icer spray that is designed for cold weather. It will melt the frost and ice from the lock mechanism. This will allow you to unlock your lock, and then unlock it with ease.
The climate will determine how often you need to lubricate locks. A coastal location will expose your door to salty air and cause corrosion, and temperature variations can influence the efficiency of your lock. The standard rule of thumb is to oil your locks twice per year, or more frequently if you reside in an area that experiences extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can help save costs on repairs, and ensure that it will 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 could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair of a faulty patio door lock can prevent additional damage and ensure that your doors are secure. You can fix doors that are locked or locked by tightening loose screws, altering the lock mechanism, or replacing the lock cylinder.
Start by checking the exterior and interior of the lock to see whether there are any indications of damage or misalignment. The majority of patio door locks expand and contract in hot or cold weather and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to be misaligned and cause problems when opening or closing the door.
Examine the keyway hole on the lock cylinder. A corroded or blocked cylinder can be difficult to open and could eventually cause damage to the pins, cams, or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you might be able to remove any obstructions using the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the problem persists you might need to remove the cylinder to find the source.
If the lock cylinder isn't secured to the lock body, you can loosen it by removing a flat screw inside the faceplate of the cylinder. Loosening this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could help restore proper alignment.
Examine the cylinder for a tiny tab that moves up and down with the key, usually towards the very end. This small clip, also called a "release Tab" will stop the cylinder from sliding into the lock body all the way. This tab can be moved back with a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed and then it can be inserted.
If your lock cylinder has become stuck it is possible to restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt contacts the strike plate. The knob or handle may then be pushed and withdrawn. Reassemble the lock once you have restored the proper alignment. Test it for functionality. If your patio door lock remains difficult to use, it's a sign that a different component, such as the latch spring or latch is damaged or worn and will need to be replaced.
Tighten the Screws
The locks on patio doors can be damaged by frequent use, extreme temperatures, dirt and dust. If they are not properly taken care of the delicate parts could get worn out and cause your door to fail to lock properly. Fortunately, the majority of lock issues can be fixed easily by following a few easy maintenance steps.
The first thing you need to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to clean any dirt or dust that may be present and dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can help keep moving parts running smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases because they may draw dust and dirt and cause additional issues.
If your patio door comes with a security footlock, make sure that the footlock is properly aligned with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will only require adjustment of the screws that hold the foot lock to the frame of your patio door. Loosen the screw using the Robertson screwdriver, and gently push it upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock as needed. 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 strike plate and the latch. This could be due to the wear and tear of everyday use, or it could simply be due to the fact that the latch is positioned higher or lower than it should be.
Then, take off the old handle and find the bolts or screws that hold it in the place. Keep in mind the screws or bolts, because you will need them for the installation of the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle and then slide the new spindle into place on the side of the door, making sure that it is properly aligned with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Once the new spindle is installed put back the handles for both exterior and interior and ensure that they are aligned with the screws or bolts that hold 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 will open and shut smoothly without needing any additional force. If you're still having problems you may have to reposition your latch or strike plate or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the Latch
If your patio door locks are not working, it may be time to replace the lock. Installing a new lock is a fairly simple home improvement project that most homeowners can complete themselves. Begin by sliding the patio doors all the way out and removing the existing lock on the interior of the door. Carefully study how the existing lock is screwed to the door and the jamb so that you can determine the type of lock you'll have to purchase.
Before you install the new latch remove the screws that hold the strike plate (the part of the lock that's set on the outside edge of the door frame) and then adjust it either horizontally or vertically to align it with the latch hole in the jamb in the door. After you've repositioned the latch plate then tighten the screws and screw it in place.
After all the components have been repositioned or changed after which you can assemble and secure your patio door according to the instructions of the manufacturer. When you're done, check the latch to ensure that it fits and is able to catch the latch's hasp when your door is closed. If it does, then your patio door lock has been put in place correctly and is now ready to provide the security and privacy that you've come to anticipate from.
Like other parts of your home, your patio doors need to be properly aligned for them to work efficiently. Over time, temperatures or cold, dirt and debris can cause the hinges and the frame of the door 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 easy steps. Give yourself a pat on the back for tackling the task 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 out. Best of luck! We are here to help should you require assistance or have any questions.