How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is essential to ensure your home's security. If it becomes difficult to lock, it could be a nightmare.
A stubborn lock can be caused by misalignment, or even simple wear and wear and tear. It's possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating the lock. If these troubleshooting techniques don't work you can replace both the mortise and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock can become hard 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 save you money on repair costs and will extend the life of your door.
The first step in the process is to clean the lock the cylinder. Use WD-40 or a similar penetrating spray to complete this. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole and then rotate the key to distribute the oil. Avoid using household oils or other solvents that could damage your locks, and make sure to spray a bit on the key itself.
When your lock's cylinder is clean it's time to lubricate. You can apply a silicone spray or dry lubricant like graphite powder. Graphite is a durable lubricant that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid lubricants. It's an excellent choice to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays are water-resistant and can withstand both humid and freezing temperatures, however it might require multiple coats to work effectively.
You can also use a de-icer spray specifically made for cold weather. It will break up ice and frost on the lock mechanism. A few coats of this will allow your lock unlock and then re-lock more easily.
How often you should oil your locks will be contingent on the environmental conditions. A location near the coast exposes your door to salty air, which can cause corrosion, and temperature changes can affect how well your lock works. The most common rule of thumb is to oil your locks every two years and more frequently if you live in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can save costs on repairs, and ensure that it will continue to function properly for a long time.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock doesn't work properly, one or more of its parts could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of a damaged lock on your patio door will help prevent further damage and guarantee the security of your doors. You can repair doors that are locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, altering the lock mechanism, or replacing the lock cylinder.
Begin by inspecting the exterior and interior of the lock to see whether there are any indications of damage or misalignment. Most often, patio door locks expand and contract in temperatures that are cold or hot and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to become misaligned and cause issues when opening or closing the door.
Next, examine the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. An obstructed or corroded lock cylinder can be difficult to open and could eventually cause damage to the lock pins, cam or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't fitting easily, you can get rid of any obstructions by using a pair of tweezers and a picklock. If the issue continues, you might need to remove the cylinder to find the source.
If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the lock body, you can loosen it by removing an elongated screw within the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw will let you rotate the cylinder, and may even help restore the proper alignment.
Look for a small tab that moves along with the key. It's usually near the end. This small clip, also called a "release Tab" is what stops the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. A standard key can slide this tab back to let the cylinder out and allow it to be removed and put back in.
If the lock cylinder of yours is stuck, you might be able to restore the proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate, and the handle or knob can be pushed in and out. Reassemble the lock after you have restored proper alignment. Test it for functionality. If your patio door lock remains difficult to use, it's likely that a different component, such as the latch or latch spring is damaged or worn and will need to be replaced.
Tighten the Screws
Locks for patio doors can be damaged by regular usage, extreme temperatures, dirt and dust. Unless properly cared for the delicate parts could get worn out and cause your door to fail to lock properly. Most lock issues can be solved with just a few steps.
The first thing to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to clean any dust or dirt that may be present. Then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning the components, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts functioning smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants that contain oil bases, they could draw dust and dirt which could cause problems.
If your patio door is equipped with a security footlock, ensure that the footlock is properly aligned with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will require adjustment of the screws that hold the foot lock to the frame of your patio door. Unlock the screw with a Robertson screwdriver, and gently push it up or down to adjust the foot lock if needed. After the adjustment is completed, tighten the screw securely.
When it comes time to repair a patio door handle the most frequent issue involves misalignment between the strike plate and latch. This could be due to everyday wear and tear, or it could simply be due to the fact that the latch is set higher or lower than it ought to be.
Then, take off the handle that was previously used and locate the bolts or screws holding it in the place. Make sure you keep track of these as you will need them when installing the new handle. Next, remove the old spindle and then slide the new one into position on the side of the door, making sure that it is in alignment with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Once the new spindle is installed then reinstall the handles for both exterior and interior and ensure that they are aligned with the screws or bolts that hold them in place.
After you've made the necessary 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 open and close without additional force. If you're still having problems it may be necessary to move your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the Latch
If your patio door locks are not working, it may be time to replace the lock. Replacing a lock is a relatively simple home improvement project that a majority of homeowners can complete by themselves. Begin by sliding the patio doors completely out and unscrewing your existing lock on the inside of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed into both the door and jamb to get a sense for what type of lock you'll have to purchase.
Before installing the new latch, loosen screws that secure the strike plate. This is the portion of the lock that is mounted on the edge of the frame of the door. Adjust it either horizontally or in an upward direction to align it with holes for the latch. After you've adjusted the strike plate, screw it back into place and tighten the screws.
After all the components are repositioned or modified after which you can assemble and secure your patio door as instructed by the manufacturer. After you've completed the process checking the latch. Make sure it fits properly and catches the latch when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is now working just as it should and is will provide you with the security and privacy you've come expect from your home's doors.
Like other parts of your house, need to be aligned correctly to function effectively. Over patio glass door repair repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk , heat cold, dirt and debris could cause the hinges and door frame to shift. When these elements are misaligned it's like trying to insert a key into the wrong keyhole: It just doesn't work. It is possible to fix the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these simple steps. So go ahead and give yourself an award for tackling this challenge and reclaiming your patio door's lock position! We'll bet you won't have any issues opening or closing the door from now on out. Best of luck! We're here for you if there are any concerns or questions.