How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is vital for home security. It can be frustrating when your door is difficult to lock.
In many instances, a locked that is not working is the result of an incorrect alignment or simply wear and tear. It's possible to restore the lock's function by adjusting it or lubricating it. If these solutions aren't working, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open or close doors. Regular cleaning and lubrication could help to prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stuck. This will save you money on repair costs and prolong the longevity of your door.
In the beginning, you'll have to clean the lock's the cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or another penetrating spray to complete this. Spray a small amount into the keyhole and then move the key into and out to distribute the oil. Avoid using solvents like household oil or other that can harm your locks. Spray a little on the key.
After cleaning your lock cylinder, it's time to lubricate. You can use dry lubricants such as graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite powder has a long life and doesn't attract dust like liquid lubricants, so it's a great option for lubricating sticky locks. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand moist and freezing temperatures, however it may require multiple coats to work effectively.
You can also use a de-icer spray specifically designed for cold weather. It will melt the frost and ice from the lock mechanism. A couple of sprays will allow your lock to unlock and then lock more easily.
How often you have to lubricate your locks will depend on the environmental conditions. A location near the coast will expose your door to salty air, which can cause corrosion. Temperature fluctuations can also influence the efficiency of your lock. It is recommended to lubricate locks at least once each year, or more often if your area has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can save the cost of repairs and ensure that they continue to work properly for a long time.
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 components may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and timely repairs of a damaged lock on your patio door can prevent further damage and ensure the security of your doors. 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 looking at the exterior and the interior of the lock to determine if there are any signs of damage or misalignment. The majority of patio door locks expand and contract with hot or cold weather and may shift slightly over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to stop aligning properly and lead to problems with opening or closing the patio door.
Next, examine the lock cylinder for obstructions in the keyway hole. A corroded or blocked cylinder can be difficult to open and could eventually cause damage to the lock pins, cam, or latch springs. If the cylinder does not fit easily, you can get rid of any obstructions by using a pair of tweezers and a lock. If the issue continues it may be necessary to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to find the source of the obstruction.
If the lock cylinder has not been screwed to the body of the lock, it can be loosen by unscrewing the screw on the faceplate of cylinder. This screw lets you rotate the cylinder, and could even aid in restoring the alignment.
Examine the cylinder for a little tab that can move up and down with the key, usually towards the end. This small clip, sometimes known as a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. A standard key will move the tab back to let the cylinder out and allow it to be removed and then reinserted.
If the cylinder of your lock is stuck and is not aligned, you can fix it by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt is engaged with the strike plate. The handle or knob can then be pushed, and pulled back. Once you've restored the proper alignment, put back together the lock and test it for functioning. If your patio door lock still isn't functioning properly it's likely that an additional component such as the latch or latch spring requires replacement.
Make sure you tighten the Screws
Patio door locks can be damaged by frequent use, extreme temperatures dust and dirt. If they are not properly taken care of, these delicate parts can get worn out and cause your door to not lock properly. Fortunately, the majority of lock issues can be easily fixed with just a few simple maintenance steps.
The first thing you need to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to clean any dust or dirt that might be found. Then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning the components, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts functioning smoothly and effectively. Avoid lubricants that have oil bases because they may attract dust and debris which could cause more problems.
If your patio door is equipped with a security footlock, ensure that the footlock is properly aligned with the strike plate. In most instances, this will require changing the screws that attach the foot lock to the patio door frame. Unlock the screw with the Robertson screwdriver, and then gently move it up or down to adjust the foot lock as needed. After the adjustment is completed you can tighten the screw.
The most frequent issue in the repair of patio door handles is the misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This could be due to everyday wear and tear, or the latch may be positioned lower or higher than it should be.
Then, take off Continuing and locate the screws or bolts that hold it in the place. Make sure to keep track of these since you will need them when installing the new handle. Next, remove the old spindle and then slide the new spindle into place on the inside of the door, ensuring that it is aligned with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Once the new spindle is in place then reinstall the handles for both exterior and interior and ensure that they are in alignment with the bolts or screws which hold them in place.
Once you've made any necessary 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're having difficulty then you may need to reposition the strike plate or latch, or the lock cylinder may be damaged and must be replaced.
Replace the Latch
If your patio door locks still do not work, it might be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can change the lock themselves. Begin by sliding the patio doors all the way out and then removing your existing lock on the inside of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed to the door and jamb so that you can determine the kind of lock you'll need to purchase.
Before installing the new latch, loosen screws that hold the strike plate. This is the portion of the lock mounted on the edge of the door's frame. Adjust it either horizontally or in a vertical direction so that it is aligned with the holes in the latch. After you've repositioned your strike plate, screw it back into position and tighten the screws.
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. After you've completed the process checking the latch. Make sure it fits correctly and is secured when the door is shut. If it does then your patio door lock is functioning exactly as it should, and is able to provide you with the security and privacy you've come to expect from your doors.
Patio doors, like other parts of your house, need to be aligned properly to work efficiently. Over time, temperature cold, dirt and debris can cause hinges and door frame to shift. The wrongly aligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are similar to trying to put a key in the wrong keyhole. It's not working. You can solve an issue that appeared impossible by following these easy steps. So give yourself an ovation for tackling this project and reclaiming your patio door's lock position! We'll bet you won't have any issues opening or closing the door from here to the end. Have fun! We are here to help should you require assistance or have any questions.