How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A safe patio door is crucial to home security. If your door is difficult to lock, it could be frustrating.

A lock that is not working can be caused by misalignment or even wear and wear and tear. It may be possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these solutions aren't working, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.

Clean and Lubricate

A door lock may become hard to open and close due to dust, dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication routine can keep your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, thereby saving you money on repairs and helping your door reach its full potential.

The first step in the process is to clean your lock cylinder. Use WD-40 or an equivalent penetrating spray do this. Spray a small amount of it into the keyhole and then move the key through and out to spread the oil. Avoid using household solvents or other oils that can damage your locks. Also, make sure you spray some on the key itself.

After cleaning your lock cylinder, it is time to lubricate. You can apply 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 an excellent choice to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand both moist and freezing temperatures, but may require multiple coats to be effective.

You can also apply de-icer spray specifically made for cold weather. It will break up the frost and ice from the mechanism of your lock. A few sprays of this will aid your lock unlock and then lock more easily.

How often you need to oil your locks will be contingent on the environment. A coastal location will expose your door to salty air, which can cause corrosion. Temperature fluctuations can also influence how well your lock works. It is recommended that you regularly lubricate your locks at least two times each year, or more often if your area has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks will save costs on repairs, and ensure that it continues to function in a good way for many years.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock doesn't perform as it should it could be because one or more of its components may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair patio door lock (Telegra.ph) of a faulty patio door lock can prevent additional damage and ensure that your doors are safe. To fix a locked or non-locked patio door, you can tighten loose screws, adjust the lock mechanism, or replace the lock cylinder.

Start by examining the exterior and inside of the lock for signs of damage or misalignment. Most often, patio door locks expand and contract in warm or cold weather, and may shift slightly over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanisms to stop aligning correctly and cause problems when opening or closing the patio door.

Then, look over the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. An obstructed or corroded lock cylinder can be difficult to open and may eventually cause damage to the pins, cams or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you may be able to remove any obstruction using the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the issue continues, you may have to remove the cylinder to determine the source.

If the lock cylinder is not been screwed onto the lock body and is loose, it can be loosened by unscrewing the flat screw on the faceplate of cylinder. By loosening this screw, it will allow you to move the cylinder around and could help to restore alignment.

Look for the small tab that is movable with the key. It's usually at the end. This small clip, sometimes called a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding patio door repair service into the lock body in the entire way. A standard key can slide this tab back to let the cylinder out and allow it to be removed and put back in.

If your lock cylinder is stuck, you might be able to restore the proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate, and the handle or knob can be pushed into and pulled out. After you have restored the proper alignment, reassemble the lock and test it for functioning. If your patio door lock repair near me door lock remains difficult to use, it's likely that a component, like the latch spring or latch is worn or damaged and will require replacement.

Tighten the Screws

Over time, the use of regular temperatures, cold and hot weather dust, dirt and even dirt can cause damage to patio door locks. If they are not properly taken care of, these delicate parts can wear out and cause your door to not lock properly. Most lock issues can be fixed with a few simple steps.

You should first clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth clean any dirt or dust that might be present, and dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving components functioning smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants that have oil bases since they could draw dust and dirt which could cause more problems.

Then, if your patio door is equipped with a foot lock that is secure be sure that the foot lock is aligned with the strike plate. In most cases, this will require you to adjust the screws that attach your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. To adjust the foot lock, loosen the screw with a Robertson screwdriver and gently pry it up or down. After the adjustment is completed then tighten the screw.

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

Start by removing the old handle, then identify the bolts or screws which hold it in place. Be sure to keep track of these 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 side of the door, making sure that it is in alignment with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Once the new spindle is in place put back the handles for both exterior and interior to ensure that they are aligned with the bolts or screws that secure them.

Close and secure the patio door after you have made any adjustments that are required. If the door is properly aligned, it should be able to open and shut without needing any additional force. If you are still having issues it may be necessary to adjust the position of your strike plate or latch, 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. Installing a new lock is a moderately easy home improvement project that most homeowners can complete by themselves. Begin by sliding patio door repair the patio door open and then removing the current lock from the inside of the door. Carefully study how the existing lock is screwed to the door and jamb so that you can get a sense for what kind of lock you'll need to purchase.

Before installing the new latch, loosen screws that hold the strike plate. This is the part of the lock mounted on the edge of the door's frame. Adjust it horizontally or in a vertical direction so that it is aligned with the latch hole. Once you have repositioned the latch plate then tighten the screws and screw it in place.

After all the components have been moved or adjusted 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 catches the latch hasp when the door is closed. If it does then your patio door lock is functioning just as it should and is can give you the security and privacy you've come to expect from your home's doors.

As with other parts of your home, your patio doors need to be properly aligned in order for them to function efficiently. Over time, temperatures and cold weather, dirt and debris, and other factors can cause the frames, hinges, and the locking mechanism to shift. If these parts aren't aligned it's similar to trying to fit keys into the wrong keyhole: It just doesn't work. You can fix an issue that appeared impossible by following these simple steps. So, give yourself a pat on the back for tackling this challenge and reclaiming your patio door's locked position! We're betting you won't experience any problems opening or closing your patio door once more. Have fun! We're here to assist should you require assistance or have questions.