How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A secure patio door is an essential part of home security. When yours is difficult to lock, it could be a nightmare.

In a lot of instances, a lock that is difficult to open is caused by an incorrect alignment or simply wear and tear. It's possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting it or lubricating it. If these troubleshooting techniques fail, you may need to replace both the mortise and handle.

Clean and Lubricate

Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open and close a door lock. Regular cleaning and lubrication could help to prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stuck. This will help you save money on repair costs and will extend the longevity of your door.

The first step is to clean the lock cylinder. Use WD-40 or a similar penetrating spray to accomplish this. Spray a small amount into the keyhole and work the key through and out to spread the oil. Avoid using household solvents or other oils which could harm your locks, and make sure to spray a little on the key itself.

When your lock's cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. You can use an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant such as graphite powder. Graphite is a long-lasting lubricant that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid fluids. It's a great option to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays are able to endure temperatures of minus 0 degrees and are resistant to water. However, they may require multiple coats to be efficient.

You can also use sprays to de-icer your lock specially made for cold weather and can remove frost and ice from the lock mechanism. A couple of sprays will help your lock to unlock and then re-lock more easily.

How often you should lubricate your locks will rely on the environmental conditions. A coastal location will expose your door to salty air and cause corrosion. Temperature fluctuations can also influence the efficiency of your lock. The standard rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks at least twice a year, or more frequently if you reside in an area with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can save costs on repairs, and ensure that they continue to function in a good way for a long time.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio doors repair near me 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 repairs of a broken lock on your patio door could stop further damage and increase the security of your doors. To fix a locked or non-locked patio door, you can tighten loose screws, adjust the mechanism of the lock, or replace the lock cylinder.

Begin by looking at the exterior and the inside of the lock to see whether there are signs of damage or misalignment. Locks for patio doors can expand or contract in response to the weather and may even shift over time. This slight shift can cause the locking mechanism to stop aligning properly and lead to problems with opening or closing the door.

Then, check the lock cylinder to find any obstructions in the keyway hole. A damaged or corroded lock cylinder may 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 problem persists, you may need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to find the root of the problem.

If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the lock body, you can loosen it by unscrewing an elongated screw within the faceplate of the cylinder. Loosening this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could help to restore alignment.

Look for a small tab that is movable with the key. It's usually located close to the end. This tiny clip, referred to as a "release tab" prevents the cylinder from sliding into the body of the lock. The tab can be moved back using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed and then returned.

If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you might be able to restore the proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt connects with the strike plate, and the handle or knob can be pulled in and withdrawn. Once you've restored the proper alignment, you can reassemble the lock and check its performance. If your patio door lock is difficult to use, it's likely that a component, like the latch spring or latch is damaged or worn out and may require replacement.

Tighten the Screws

Over time, regular use as well as cold and hot weather, dirt, and dust can wear down patio doors repair near me door locks. These delicate parts may wear out if not properly maintained, leading to your door to stop locking properly. Most lock issues can be solved with just a few steps.

It is recommended to first clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or dust that may be present. Then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can keep moving parts running smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases, they can draw dust and dirt that can lead to further issues.

If your patio door lock repairs door is equipped with an electronic footlock for security, make sure that the footlock is aligned properly with the strike plate. In most cases, this will only require you to adjust the screws that attach your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver, and gently push it upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock as required. Once the adjustment has been completed, tighten the screw.

The most common problem when it comes to fixing patio door handles is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This can be caused by the wear and tear of everyday use, or it could simply be due to the fact that the latch is placed higher or lower than it should be.

Then, take out the old handle and find the bolts or screws that hold it in the place. Make sure you keep track of them as you will need them when installing the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle, then slide the new one into the door on the side of the door, ensuring that it is in alignment with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Reinstall the exterior and interior handles after the spindle has been installed. Make sure that they are aligned properly with the bolts or screws to secure them.

After you've made any needed adjustments to your patio door, make sure to test it by closing and locking the door. If the door is properly aligned, it should be able to open and close smoothly without the need for any additional force. If you're having difficulty, you might need to move the strike plate or latch or the lock cylinder may be damaged and require to be replaced.

Replace the Latch

If your patio door locks don't work, it may be time to replace the latch. The majority of homeowners can replace a lock themselves. Start by sliding the patio door completely open and unscrewing the existing lock from the interior side of the door. Carefully study how to repair patio door lock, funsilo.date, the existing lock is screwed to the door and the jamb so that you can get a sense for what type of lock you'll have to purchase.

Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws that secure the strike plate. This is the part of the lock that is positioned on the edge of the frame of the door. Adjust it horizontally or in an upward direction so that it is aligned with the holes in the latch. After you've repositioned the latch plate you can tighten the screws, then screw it in place.

After all components have been moved or adjusted after which you can assemble and secure your patio door as instructed by the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch. Make sure it is fitted properly and catches the latch when the door is shut. If it does then your patio door lock is working just as it should and is able to provide you with the security and privacy you've come expect from your home's doors.

Like other areas of your home the patio doors have to be aligned properly for them to function efficiently. Over time, cold and hot weather dirt and debris and other elements can cause hinges, door frame and locking mechanism to shift slightly. If these parts aren't aligned it's like trying to insert keys into the wrong keyhole and it doesn't work. By following these simple steps, you can fix a problem that might have been thought to be impossible to fix. So give yourself an ovation for tackling this project and reclaiming the door that was locked! We bet that you'll not have any issues opening or closing your patio door once more. Good luck! We are here to assist should you require assistance or have any questions.