How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is a vital element of home security. If it becomes difficult to lock, it can be a nightmare.
In a lot of instances, a lock that is difficult to open is due to an incorrect alignment or simply wear and tear. It is possible to restore the function of the lock by adjusting it or lubricating it. If these solutions don't work, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open and close doors. A regular cleaning and lubrication schedule can prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, saving you money on repair bills and helping your door reach its full potential.
The first step is to clean your lock's the cylinder. To do this, use a spray can of penetrating oil such as WD-40. Spray a small amount into the keyhole and work the key into and out to distribute the oil. Avoid using solvents like household oil or other which could damage your locks. Spray a little on the key.
When your lock's cylinder is clean it's time to lubricate. You can apply an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. Graphite powder is long-lasting and doesn't attract dust like liquid lubricants, so it's an excellent choice to lubricate locks that are sticky. Silicone sprays are able to withstand freezing temperatures and are resistant to water. However, patio door repair near me might need multiple coats in order to be effective.
You can also apply de-icer spray that is specially designed for cold weather. It will remove frost and ice off the lock mechanism. This will help you unlock your lock and relock it more easily.
How often you have to oil your locks will be contingent on environmental factors. A location near the coast will expose your door to salty air and lead to corrosion, and temperature variations can impact how well your lock works. The standard rule of thumb is to grease your locks every two years and more frequently if you reside 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 as it should for many years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock doesn't perform as it should there's a chance that one or more of its parts may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and timely repairs of a faulty lock on your patio door can stop further damage and increase the security of your doors. You can fix a patio door that is locked or locked by tightening loose screws, altering the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder.
Begin by looking at the exterior and the interior of the lock to see whether there are signs of damage or misalignment. Locks for patio doors may expand or contract depending on the weather and might even shift with time. This slight shift can cause the locking mechanisms to stop aligning properly and cause problems when opening or closing the patio door.
Then, check the lock cylinder for obstructions in the keyway hole. An obstructed or corroded lock cylinder may be difficult to open and can eventually cause damage to the pins, cams 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 lock. If the issue persists then you'll need to remove the cylinder and disassemble it to locate the source of the obstruction.
If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed into the body of the lock then you can loosen it by removing an elongated screw within the cylinder faceplate. By loosening this screw, it will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could help restore proper alignment.
Look for the small tab that moves along with the key. It's usually near the end. This tiny clip, also called a "release Tab" will stop the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. This tab can be moved back by using a standard key. This will allow the cylinder to be removed and then returned.
If your lock cylinder is stuck, you might be able restore proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt engages with the strike plate, and the knob or handle can be pulled in and out. Reassemble the lock once you have restored alignment. Test it for functionality. If your patio door lock is difficult to use, it's likely that a different component, such as the latch or latch spring is worn or damaged and will need to be replaced.
Lock the Screws
Over time, frequent use, hot and cold weather dust, dirt, and can wear down 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. Thankfully, most lock problems are easily fixable by following a few easy maintenance steps.
It is recommended to first clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to clean any dirt or dust that may be present, and dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning the components, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts functioning efficiently and smoothly. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, however they could draw dust and dirt that can lead to further problems.
If your patio door is fitted with a security footlock, ensure that the footlock is aligned properly 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 simply loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver and gently pry it upwards or downwards. Once the adjustment has been completed you can tighten the screw.
When it comes to fixing the handle on a patio door the most frequent issue is misalignment between the strike plate and latch. This can be caused by wear and tear or the latch could be placed higher or below what it is supposed to be.
Begin by removing the handle, and then locate the screws or bolts which hold it in place. Keep in mind the bolts or screws, since you'll need them to attach the new handle. Then, remove the spindle that was in use and slide the new one on the inside of the door. Make sure that it is properly aligned with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Install the exterior and interior handles after the spindle has been installed. Make sure that they are aligned properly with the screws or bolts to secure them.
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 properly aligned, it will open and close smoothly without the need for any additional force. If you are still having issues, you may need to move your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the Latch
If your patio door locks still aren't working, it could be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can replace locks themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door completely open and unscrewing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Examine the lock you have to determine the type of lock that you will need.
Before you install the new latch remove the screws that hold the strike plate (the part of the lock that's mounted on the outside of the door frame) and then adjust it vertically or horizontally to align it with the hole in the jamb in the door. After you've adjusted the latch plate you can tighten the screws, then fix it with screws.
After all the parts of your patio door are repositioned or replaced, reassemble and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. After you're done, test the latch to make sure that it fits and catches the latch's hasp when the door is closed. If it does, then your patio door lock is installed correctly and is able to provide the security and privacy you've come to anticipate from.
Patio doors, like other components of your home, need to be aligned correctly to function effectively. Over time, heat, cold, dirt, and debris can cause the hinges and door frame to shift. If these parts aren't aligned, it's like trying to fit a key in the wrong keyhole: It just doesn't work. By following these simple steps, you can fix a problem that might have been thought to be impossible to fix. Give yourself a pat on the back for taking on the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're betting you won't face any more trouble opening or closing the door from now on out. Good luck! We're here for you if there are any concerns or questions.