How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A safe patio door is a vital element of home security. It can be frustrating when yours is difficult to lock.

A stubborn lock can be caused by misalignment, or simply wear and tear. It's possible to restore the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these methods of troubleshooting don't work, 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. A regular cleaning and lubrication routine can stop your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, saving your money on repair costs and helping your door reach its maximum lifespan.

The first step is to clean your lock cylinder. Use WD-40 or a similar penetrating spray to accomplish this. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole and then rotate the key to spread the oil. Do not use solvents like household oil or other that can harm your locks. Spray a small amount on the key.

Once your lock cylinder is clean and lubricated, it's time to apply. You can use dry lubricants such as graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite is a lubricant that lasts for a long time that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid fluids. It's a great choice for lubricating locks. Silicone sprays can endure temperatures of minus 0 degrees and are resistant to water. However, they might require several coats to be efficient.

You can also apply sprays to de-icer your lock that is designed for colder weather and will remove frost and ice from the lock mechanism. A few coats of this will aid your lock to unlock and then lock again easily.

How often you have to lubricate your locks will depend on environmental factors. The location of your door can affect its performance. A coastal location can expose the door to salty air, which can cause corrosion. The most common rule of thumb is to oil your locks twice per year and more frequently when you live in a region that has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure that your patio door continues to function properly for the years to come.

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 inspections and timely repairs of a faulty lock on your patio door can prevent further damage and ensure the security of your doors. To fix a locked or non-locked patio door, tighten loose screws or adjust the lock mechanism or replace the lock cylinder.

Begin by inspecting the exterior and the inside of the lock to determine whether there are signs of damage or misalignment. The majority of patio doors repair near me door locks expand and contract in hot or cold weather and may shift slightly over time. This slight shift can cause the locking mechanism to stop aligning properly and cause problems when opening or closing the door.

Then, check the lock cylinder for obstructions in the keyway hole. A damaged or corroded lock cylinder may be difficult to access, and could cause damage to the cam, latch springs or lock pins. If the cylinder does not fit easily, you can get rid of any obstructions by using a pair of picklocks and tweezers. If the issue persists, you may need to remove the cylinder and disassemble it in order to identify the cause of the obstruction.

If the lock cylinder has not been secured to the body of the lock and is loose, it can be loosened by unscrewing the screw on the cylinder faceplate. Loosening this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could help restore proper alignment.

Check the cylinder for a little tab that can move up and down using the key, typically towards the end. This tiny clip, also called a "release Tab" will stop the cylinder from sliding into the lock body in the entire way. A standard key will move this tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and reinserted.

If your lock cylinder is stuck and is not aligned, you can fix it by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt engages the strike plate. The knob or handle can then be pushed, and withdrawn. Reassemble the lock after you have restored the proper alignment. Check it out for its functionality. If your patio door lock is still difficult to use, it's likely that another component such as the latch spring or latch is worn or damaged and may require replacement.

Lock the Screws

Over time, regular use, hot and cold weather dust, dirt and even dirt can take their toll on patio door locks. If they are not properly taken care of the delicate parts could get worn out and cause your door to not lock properly. Fortunately, the majority of lock issues are easily fixable with a few simple maintenance steps.

You should first clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt that might be found. Then, dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning the components, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts operating smoothly and effectively. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, they can draw dust and dirt which can cause further problems.

If your patio door is fitted 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 secure your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. To adjust the foot lock simply loosen the screw using the help of a Robertson screwdriver and gently pry it up or down. Once the adjustment has been completed then tighten the screw.

The most frequent issue when it comes to fixing patio door handles is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This could be due to everyday wear and tear, or it could simply be that the latch is placed higher or lower than it should be.

Then, take off the handle from the old one and locate the bolts or screws holding it in the first place. Keep on track of the bolts or screws, since you'll need them to install the new handle. Then, remove the spindle that was in use and slide the new one into place on the inside of the door. Make sure it is aligned properly with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Reinstall the exterior and interior handles once the spindle is been installed. Make sure that they are aligned correctly with the bolts or screws to secure them.

Close and secure the patio door after you have made any adjustments that are required. If everything is in alignment, the door will open and close smoothly without any additional force. If you're still having trouble, you might need to reposition the strike plate or latch, or the lock cylinder may be damaged and need to be replaced.

Replace the Latch

If your patio door locks still aren't working, it could be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can replace the lock themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door completely open and then removing the current lock from the inside of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed into the door and the jamb so that you can determine the type of lock you'll have to purchase.

Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws that hold the strike plate. This is the part of the lock that is mounted on the outside of the frame of the door. Adjust it either horizontally or in the vertical direction so that it is aligned with the holes in the latch. Once you've repositioned the strike plate, screw it into place and tighten the screws.

After all the parts of your patio door are relocated or replaced, reassemble and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. When you're done testing the latch. Make sure it is fitted correctly and is secured when the door is closed. If it does the lock will be able to latch onto the door. If it does, your patio door lock is now functioning just as it should and is will provide the security and privacy you've come expect from your home's doors.

Like other areas of your home, need to be aligned correctly to function efficiently. Over time, temperatures or cold, dirt and debris could cause the frames and hinges to shift. If these parts aren't aligned it's similar to trying to fit a key into 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. Give yourself a pat on the back for taking on the job and reclaiming your patio door's closed position! We're sure you won't have any trouble opening or closing the door from here on out. Have fun! We're here for you if there are any questions or concerns.