How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is a vital element of home security. If it is difficult to lock, it could be a hassle.
A locked that isn't working properly could be caused by misalignment, or simply wear and tear. It is possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these troubleshooting techniques don't work you can replace both the mortise and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock can become hard to open and close because of dust, dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication could aid in preventing your security device from becoming stiff or stuck. This will save you money on repair patio door lock costs and will extend the longevity of your door.
The first step in the process is to clean the lock cylinder. Use WD-40 or another penetrating spray to accomplish this. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole and then turn the key to spread it. Avoid using household oil or other solvents, as they can damage your locks. Spray a bit on the key.
After cleaning your lock cylinder, it's time to grease. You can use a dry lubricant such as graphite powder or sprays of silicone. Graphite powder has a long life and doesn't swell up like liquid lubricants, so it's an excellent choice for lubricating locks that stick. Silicone sprays can be able to withstand temperatures that are below freezing and are impervious to water. However, they might require multiple coats to be effective.
You can also use sprays to de-icer your lock specially made for colder weather and will lift frost and ice off the lock mechanism. A couple of sprays will help your lock to unlock and then lock again easily.
How often you need to lubricate your locks will depend on environmental factors. The location of your door will affect its performance. A location that is near the ocean can expose it to salty air which can cause corrosion. The most common rule of thumb is to oil your locks twice per year and more frequently if you reside in a region that has extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure your wood patio door repair door will function properly for the years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't working properly, it could be that one or more parts are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of a broken lock on your patio door will help prevent further damage and guarantee the security of your doors. You can repair doors that are locked or locked by tightening loose screws, altering the lock mechanism, or replacing the lock cylinder.
Start by examining the exterior and interior of the lock for signs of damage or misalignment. Most often, patio door locks expand and contract during temperatures that are cold or hot and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement may cause the locking mechanism to misalign and cause problems when opening or closing the door.
Then, check the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. A corroded or obstructed lock cylinder may be difficult to access, and can cause damage to the latch springs, cam, or the lock pins. If the cylinder is difficult to insert, you may be able to dislodge any obstructions with a pair of tweezers, or a picklock. If the problem persists you might need to remove the cylinder to find the cause.
If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the lock body, you can loosen it by uncrewing a flat screw inside the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw will let you rotate the cylinder, and may even help restore alignment.
Look for a small tab that moves with the key. It's usually located at the end. This tiny clip, referred to as a “release tab” is what keeps the cylinder from sliding patio door repair near me all the way into the lock body. A standard key can move the tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and then reinserted.
If the lock cylinder is stuck, you can restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt engages the strike plate. The handle or knob can then be pushed, and pulled back. Once you have restored the proper alignment, put back together the lock and test its functioning. If your patio door lock still isn't working It is likely that a different component, such as the latch or latch spring requires replacement.
Lock the Screws
Locks for patio doors can be damaged by frequent usage, extreme temperatures dust and dirt. These delicate parts can be damaged if not maintained properly, causing your door to stop locking properly. Most lock problems are easily fixed with a few simple steps.
You should first clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or dust that may be present. Then, dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant will help keep the moving parts functioning smoothly and effectively. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, they could draw dust and dirt which can cause further problems.
Next, if your patio door has a security foot lock, make sure the foot lock is properly aligned with the strike plate. Most of the time, this will only 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 the help of a Robertson screwdriver and gently pull it upwards or downwards. Once the adjustment is complete, tighten the screw securely.
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 be that the latch is placed higher or lower than it ought to be.
Begin by removing the handle, then find the screws or bolts which hold it in place. Keep track of the bolts or screws as you will require them for the installation of the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle, then slide the new spindle into the door on the side of the door, making sure that it is aligned with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Once the new spindle is installed put back the handles for both exterior and interior to ensure that they are aligned with the bolts or screws that hold them in place.
(Image: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/doorpanels-300x200.jpg)After you've made the necessary adjustments to your patio door, be sure to test it by closing and locking the door. If everything is in proper alignment, the door will be able to open and close smoothly, without any additional force. If you're still having trouble, you might need to adjust the strike plate or latch or the lock's cylinder might be damaged and must be replaced.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks still don't work, it may be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can replace a lock themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door open and removing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Study the existing lock to determine the type of lock that you will need.
Before installing the new latch, loosen screws that secure the strike plate. This is the part of the lock that is mounted on the outside of the frame of the door. Adjust it either horizontally or in an upward direction to align it with the latch hole. Once you've repositioned the strike plate, screw it into its place and tighten the screws.
After all components have been moved or adjusted then assemble and secure the patio door glass repair near me door according to the instructions of the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch to make sure that it fits and catches the latch's hasp when your door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is installed correctly and is able to provide the security and privacy you have come to expect.
Patio doors, like other parts of your house, need to be properly aligned to function efficiently. Over time, heat, cold, dirt, and debris can cause hinges and door frame to shift. If these parts aren't aligned, it's like trying to insert a key into the wrong hole for a key: It just doesn't work. You can fix an issue that appeared impossible by following these simple steps. Do yourself a big pat on the back for taking on the task and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're betting you'll have no issues opening or closing your patio door. Good luck! We're here to assist in case you require any assistance or have any questions.