How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is vital to home security. If it is difficult to lock, it could be a nightmare.
A locked that isn't working properly could be caused by misalignment or even wear and wear and tear. It's possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these solutions aren't working, you can replace both the mortise as well as the handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dust, dirt and grime can make it difficult to open or close doors. Regular cleaning and lubrication routine can prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving your money on repair costs and allowing your door to enjoy its full lifespan.
In the beginning, you'll have to clean the lock the cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or a similar penetrating spray to accomplish this. Spray a small amount of it into the keyhole and work the key through and out to spread the oil. Avoid using household oil or other solvents that can harm your locks. Spray a little on the key.
After cleaning your lock's cylinder, it is time to lubricate. You can apply a dry lubricant such as graphite powder or sprays of silicone. Graphite powder is long-lasting and doesn't attract dust as liquid lubricants do, so it's an excellent choice for lubricating sticky locks. Silicone sprays are able to be able to withstand temperatures that are below freezing and are impervious to water. However, they might need multiple coats in order to be effective.
You can also use a de-icer spray, which is specifically made for cold weather and will lift frost and ice off the lock mechanism. This will allow you to unlock your lock and lock it more easily.
How often you have to oil your locks will be contingent on environmental factors. The location of your door can affect its performance. A location near the coast could expose it to salty air which can cause corrosion. The most common rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks at least twice a year, or more frequently when you live in an area with extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks will save costs on repairs, and ensure that they continue to function properly for many years.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't functioning properly, it could be that one or more parts are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair of a damaged patio door lock will prevent additional damage and ensure that your doors are secure. You can fix a patio door that is locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, altering the lock mechanism, or replacing the lock cylinder.
Begin by looking at the exterior and the inside of the lock to determine whether there are signs of damage or misalignment. Often, patio door locks expand and contract during warm or cold weather, and may shift slightly over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to stop aligning properly and lead to problems with opening or closing the door.
Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. A damaged or corroded lock cylinder might be difficult to open, and can cause damage to the cam, latch springs, or the lock pins. If the cylinder doesn't fit easily, you can remove any obstructions using a pair tweezers and a lock. If the problem persists you might need to remove the cylinder in order to locate the cause.
If the lock cylinder has not been screwed to the lock body it can be removed by removing the screw on the faceplate of the cylinder. Unscrewing this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and may aid in restoring alignment.
Check the cylinder for a little tab that moves up and down with the key, generally towards the end. This little clip, also known as a "release tab", keeps the cylinder from sliding all the way into the lock body. A standard key can slide this tab back to allow the cylinder to be released and allow it to be removed and reinserted.
If your lock cylinder is stuck, you may be able to restore the proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt engages with the strike plate, and the knob or handle can be pushed into and withdrawn. After patio door lock repair have restored the proper alignment, put back together the lock and test its performance. If your patio door lock still isn't functioning properly it's likely that another component like the latch spring or latch requires replacement.
Tighten the Screws
Over time, the use of regular as well as cold and hot weather, dirt, and dust can take their toll on patio door locks. These delicate parts may be damaged if they are not properly maintained, causing your door to stop locking properly. Most lock issues can be repaired with a few easy steps.
Clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth clean any dirt or dust that may be present and dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts operating smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases, however they can draw dust and dirt that can lead to further issues.
Then, if your patio door is equipped with an electronic foot lock for security be sure that the foot lock is 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. To adjust the footlock you need to loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver and gently pry it upwards or downwards. Once the adjustment is complete then tighten the screw.
The most frequent issue when it comes to repairing patio door handles is the misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This could be due to everyday wear and tear or the latch may be positioned higher or below what it is supposed to be.
Start by removing the old handle, and then locate the screws or bolts which hold it in place. Make sure to keep track of them as you will need them when installing the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle and then slide the new one into position on the inside of the door, making sure that it is properly aligned with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Once the new spindle has been installed then reinstall the interior and exterior handles, making sure that they are aligned with the bolts or screws that hold them in place.
After you've made the necessary adjustments to your patio door, be sure to test it by closing and locking the door. If the door is correctly aligned, it should be able to open and shut without needing any additional force. If you're still having problems, you may need to reposition your latch or strike plate or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks still do not work, it might be time to replace the latch. Replacing a lock is a moderately easy home improvement project that most homeowners can do themselves. Start by sliding the patio doors all the way out and then removing your existing lock on the inside of the door. Examine the lock you have to determine the type of lock that you will need.
Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws that hold the strike plate. This is the portion of the lock mounted on the edges of the door's frame. Adjust it horizontally or in an upward direction to align it with the holes for the latch. After you've repositioned the latch plate then tighten the screws and fix it with screws.
After all the components have been repositioned or changed then assemble and secure the patio door according to the instructions of the manufacturer. Once you're finished, test the latch. Make sure it fits correctly and is secured when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is working just as it should and is can provide the security and privacy you've come to expect from your home's doors.
Like other parts of your home your patio doors also need to be properly aligned for them to function efficiently. Over time, heat and cold weather dirt and debris and other factors can cause hinges, door frame and locking mechanism to shift slightly. If these parts aren't aligned, it's like trying to fit keys into the wrong keyhole and it doesn't work. If you follow these steps, you can solve a problem that might have appeared to be unfixable. Do yourself a big pat on your back for tackling the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're betting you won't face any issues opening or closing the door from now to the end. Best of luck! We are here to help in case you require any assistance or have questions.