How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is essential for home security. If your door becomes difficult to lock, it can be a hassle.
A lock that is not working can be the result of misalignment or simply wear and tear. It may be possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If tilt and slide patio door repairs near me aren't working, you can replace both the mortise and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open and close doors. Regular cleaning and lubrication will aid in preventing your security device from becoming stiff or stuck. This will save you money on repair bills and extend the longevity of your door.
The first step is to clean your lock cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or a similar penetrating spray to accomplish this. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole and then turn the key to distribute the oil. Avoid using household solvents or other oils which could harm your locks. Make sure you spray some on the key itself.
When your lock's cylinder is clean it's time to lubricate. You can use a silicone spray or dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. Graphite powder has a long life and doesn't swell up like liquid lubricants do, which is why it's an excellent choice for lubricating locks that stick. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand both humid and freezing temperatures, but may require several coats to work effectively.
You can also use a de-icer spray that is designed for cold weather. It will break up ice and frost on the lock mechanism. This will enable you to unlock your lock and then relock it more easily.
How often you have to lubricate your locks will depend on the environmental conditions. The location of your door will impact its performance. A coastal location can expose it to salty air, which can cause corrosion. It is recommended that you lubricate locks at least two times each year, or more often when you live in an area with severe weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door will function properly for years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock does not work properly it could be because one or more of its parts may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair of a defective patio door lock can prevent any further damage and ensure your doors are safe. You can repair a patio door that is locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, altering the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder.
Begin by inspecting the exterior and the interior of the lock to determine whether there are any indications of damage or misalignment. The patio door locks can expand or contract with the weather and could shift over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to stop aligning correctly and lead to problems with opening or closing the door.
Then, check the lock cylinder to find any obstructions in the keyway hole. A corroded or blocked cylinder is difficult to open and could eventually cause damage to the lock pins, cam or latch springs. If the cylinder is difficult to insert, you may be able of removing any obstructions using a pair of tweezers or a picklock. If the issue continues it may be necessary to remove the cylinder and disassemble it in order to identify the cause of the obstruction.
If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the body of the lock you can loosen it by uncrewing the screw that is flat inside the cylinder's faceplate. This screw will let you rotate the cylinder, and could even aid in restoring alignment.
Look for a small tab that moves along with the key. It's usually located close to the end. This little clip, called a "release tab", keeps the cylinder from sliding into the lock body. This tab can be removed with a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed, then it can be inserted.
If the lock cylinder of yours is stuck, you might be able to restore proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt engages with the strike plate, and the knob or handle can be pushed in and pulled out. Once you have restored the proper alignment, you can reassemble the lock and test it for performance. If the lock on your patio door isn't working properly It is likely that a different component, such as the latch spring or latch needs to be replaced.
Tighten the Screws
Patio door locks can be damaged by frequent use, extremes of temperature dust and dirt. These delicate parts may be damaged if not maintained properly, causing your door to stop locking properly. Most lock issues can be fixed with a few simple steps.
It is recommended to first clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to clean any dirt or dust that might be found. Then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant will help keep moving parts running smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants that contain oil bases, they could draw dust and dirt which could cause issues.
Next, if your patio door is equipped with a foot lock that is secure ensure 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 you need to loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver, and then gently push it up or down. After the adjustment has been completed you can tighten the screw.
The most common problem 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 should be.
Then, take off the old handle and locate the screws or bolts that hold it in place. Make sure to keep track of these as you will need them when installing the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle, then slide the new spindle into position on the inside of the door, ensuring that it is properly aligned with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Install the exterior and interior handles once the spindle is been installed. Make sure they are aligned properly with the bolts or screws holding them in place.
After you've made any needed adjustments to your patio door, be sure to test it by locking and closing the door. If everything is in proper alignment, the door will open and close smoothly without any additional force. If you are still having issues, you may need to move your latch or strike plate or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the Latch
If your patio door locks still don't work, it may be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can change a lock themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door open and removing the existing lock from the interior side of the door. Examine the lock you have to determine the type of lock that you will need.
Before you install the new latch, loosen the screws securing the strike plate (the part of the lock that's mounted on the outside edge of the door frame) and then adjust it horizontally or vertically to align it with the hole in the door jamb. After you've adjusted the latch plate then tighten the screws and screw it in place.
When all the components of your patio door have been repositioned or replaced, reassemble and secure them according to the instructions given by the manufacturer. When you're done, check the latch to ensure that it fits and is able to catch the latch's hasp when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is functioning as it should and will give you the security and privacy you've come to appreciate from your home's doors.
Patio doors, like other components of your home should be aligned properly to work efficiently. Over time, heat cold, dirt and debris can cause the frames and hinges to shift. Misaligned hinges, door frames, and locking mechanisms are like trying to put keys into the wrong keyhole. It doesn't work. You can fix an issue that appeared impossible by following these easy steps. You should pat yourself on the back for tackling the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're sure you won't have any issues opening or closing the door from now on. Good luck! We're here to assist in case you require any assistance or have any questions.