How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is crucial to ensure your home's security. It can be a hassle if yours is difficult to lock.
A locked that isn't working properly could be caused by misalignment or simply wear and wear and tear. It's possible to restore the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these solutions aren't working, you can replace both the mortise as well as the handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dust, dirt and grime can make it difficult to open or close doors. Regular cleaning and lubrication schedule can prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving your money on repair costs and helping your door reach its full potential.
The first step is to clean your lock cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or an equivalent penetrating spray accomplish this. Spray a small amount into the keyhole, then work the key in and out to distribute the oil. Avoid using household oils or other solvents that could damage your locks. Make sure you spray some on the key itself as well.
Once your lock cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. You can use dry lubricants like graphite powder or sprays of silicone. Graphite powder is long-lasting and doesn't swell up like liquid lubricants do, so it's an excellent choice for lubricating locks that stick. Silicone sprays are water-resistant and can withstand both moist and cold temperatures, however they may require multiple coats to work effectively.
You can also apply de-icer spray specifically designed for cold weather. It will break up frost and ice off the mechanism of your lock. A few coats of this will aid your lock unlock and then lock more easily.
The climate will determine how often you should lubricate locks. A location near the coast will expose your door to salty air and lead to corrosion, and temperature fluctuations can also influence the performance of your lock. The general rule of thumb is to oil your locks every two years or more often if you reside in an area with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure that your patio door will perform as it should for long time to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't operating properly, it could be that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and timely repairs of a broken lock on your patio door could help prevent further damage and guarantee the security of your doors. You can repair doors that are 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 see whether there are signs of damage or misalignment. Patio door locks may expand or contract depending on the weather, and could shift 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. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder might be difficult to open and may cause damage to the latch springs, cam or the lock pins. If the cylinder isn't easy to insert, you might be able to dislodge any obstructions with the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the problem persists it may be necessary to take the cylinder out and disassemble it in order to identify the root of the problem.
If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed to the body of the lock it can be removed by removing the screw on the faceplate of the cylinder. By loosening this screw, it will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could aid in restoring alignment.
Check the cylinder for a little tab that can move up and down with the key, generally towards the end. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors , sometimes known as a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body all the way. The tab can be removed using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed and then it can be inserted.
If the lock cylinder is stuck it is possible to restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt engages the strike plate. The knob or handle can then be pulled and pulled back. Once you have restored the proper alignment, reassemble the lock and test its functionality. If your patio door lock still isn't working properly, it is likely that an additional component such as the latch spring or latch needs to be replaced.
Make sure you tighten the Screws
Over time, the use of regular temperatures, cold and hot weather dust, dirt and even dirt can take their toll on patio door locks. These delicate parts can be damaged if they are not properly maintained, leading to your door to not lock properly. Fortunately, most lock issues can be fixed easily with a few simple maintenance steps.
The first thing you have to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to clean any dust or dirt that might be found. Then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts operating smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, however they could draw dust and dirt which could cause problems.
If your patio door is equipped with a foot lock that is secure be sure that the lock is aligned with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, 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 upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock as needed. Once the adjustment is complete you can tighten the screw.
When it comes time to repair a patio door handle, the most common problem is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This can be caused by normal wear and tear or the latch could be set higher or below what it should be.
Begin by removing the handle, then identify the screws or bolts which hold it in place. Be sure to keep track of them as you will need them when installing the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle, and then slide the new spindle into position on the inside of the door, making sure that it is in alignment with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Once the new spindle has been installed put back the handles on the exterior and interior and ensure that they are properly aligned with the screws or bolts 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 close smoothly without the need for any additional force. If you're still experiencing difficulty it could be necessary to move the latch or strike plate, or the lock cylinder may be damaged and must be replaced.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks are still not working, it might be time to replace the lock. The majority of homeowners can replace a lock themselves. Start by sliding the patio door completely open and then removing the current lock from the interior side of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed to the door and the jamb to get a sense for what type of lock you'll need purchase.
Before installing 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 latch hole in the door jamb. Once you have repositioned the latch plate then tighten the screws and screw it into place.
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 checking the latch. Make sure it fits correctly and that it is able to latch when the door is closed. If it does then your patio door lock is now working as it should and can provide the security and privacy you've come appreciate from your home's doors.
Like other parts of your home the patio doors have to be properly aligned in order for they to function effectively. Over time, temperatures cold, dirt and debris can cause the hinges and the frame of the door to shift. Incorrectly aligned hinges, door frames, and locking mechanisms are like trying to insert keys in the wrong keyhole. It doesn't work. You can solve an issue that appeared impossible by following these simple steps. So, give yourself an award for tackling this challenge and regaining the door that was locked! We bet that you'll not have any issues opening or closing your patio door. Have fun! We're here to assist should you require assistance or have any questions.