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How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is vital for home security. It can be difficult when yours is difficult to lock.
In most instances, a locked that is not working is due to the wrong alignment or just wear and tear. It is possible to restore the lock's function by adjusting it or lubricating it. If these solutions fail, you may need to replace both the mortise and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open or close a door lock. Regular cleaning and lubrication could help to prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stuck. This will help you save money on repair costs and prolong the lifespan of your door.
To begin, you'll have to clean the lock's the cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or a similar penetrating spray to accomplish this. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole and then rotate the key to distribute the oil. Do not use solvents like household oil or other which could damage your locks. Spray a small amount on the key.
After cleaning your lock's cylinder, it's time to grease. You can use dry lubricants like graphite powder or sprays of silicone. Graphite is a long-lasting lubricant that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid fluids. It's an excellent choice for lubricating locks. Silicone sprays are water-resistant and can withstand moist and freezing temperatures, however it might require multiple coats to be effective.
You can also use a de-icer spray specifically specially designed for cold weather. It will melt 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 oil your locks will be contingent on the environmental conditions. 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. It is recommended to regularly lubricate your locks at least once a year or more often if your area has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can save costs on repairs, and ensure that it will continue to function properly for many years.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock doesn't perform as it should, one or more of its components could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair of a damaged patio door lock can avoid additional damage and ensure that your doors are safe. To repair a locked or unlocked patio door, tighten loose screws or adjust the lock mechanism, or replace the lock cylinder.
Start by checking the exterior and the inside of the lock to determine if there are any signs of damage or misalignment. Locks for patio doors can expand or contract in response to the weather and may even shift over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to be misaligned and cause issues when closing or opening the door.
Then, check the lock cylinder for obstructions in the keyway hole. A damaged or corroded lock cylinder might be difficult to access, and can cause damage to the cam, latch springs or lock pins. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you may be able to remove any obstructions with the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the problem persists you might need to remove the cylinder in order to locate the cause.
If patio door repair hasn't been screwed into the lock body you can loosen it by removing a flat screw inside the cylinder's faceplate. This screw will let you rotate the cylinder, and it could also help restore the alignment.
Look over the cylinder for a small tab that moves up and down with the key, usually towards the very end. This tiny clip, also called a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body in the entire way. The tab can be removed using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be taken out and then reinserted.
If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you might be able to restore proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt engages with the strike plate, and the knob or handle can be pushed in and pulled out. Reassemble the lock after you have restored the proper alignment. Test it to see if it works. If your patio door lock is still difficult to use, it's a sign that another component such as the latch spring or latch is damaged or worn and will need to be replaced.
Lock the Screws
Patio door locks are susceptible to damage from regular use, extreme temperatures, dirt and dust. If not properly maintained the delicate parts could wear out and cause your door to fail to lock properly. Most lock issues can be fixed with a few simple steps.
The first thing you have to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to clean any dirt or dust that might be present, and then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning the components, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts functioning smoothly and effectively. Avoid lubricants with oil bases as they can draw dust and dirt and cause additional problems.
Next, if your patio door has an electronic foot lock for security be sure that the foot lock is aligned with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will only require adjusting the screws that secure the foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Remove the screw using a Robertson screwdriver and gently move it up or down to adjust the foot lock if needed. Once the adjustment is done then tighten the screw.
When it comes to fixing the handle of a patio door, the most common problem involves misalignment between the strike plate and latch. This could be due to everyday wear and tear or the latch could be placed lower or higher than it should be.
Begin by removing the old handle, then identify the bolts or screws that secure it. Keep track of the bolts or screws because you will need them for the installation of the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle and then slide the new one into place on the inside of the door, making sure that it is aligned with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Once the new spindle is in place put back the handles on the exterior and interior and ensure that they are aligned with the screws or bolts which hold them in place.
After you've made the necessary adjustments to your patio door, make sure to test it by closing and locking the door. If the door is properly aligned, it should be able to open and shut smoothly without needing any additional force. If you are still having issues it may be necessary to move your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks don't work, it may be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can change the lock themselves. Start by sliding the patio door all the way open and removing the existing lock from the interior side of the door. Review the lock to determine the type of lock you will need.
Before installing the new latch, loosen screws that secure the strike plate. This is the portion of the lock mounted on the edges of the frame of the door. Adjust it horizontally or in an upward direction so that it is aligned with the holes for the latch. 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 moved or replaced, you can reassemble them and secure them according to the instructions given by the manufacturer. When you're done checking the latch. Make sure it fits correctly and is secured when the door is shut. If it does, then your patio door lock has been installed correctly and is ready to provide the security and privacy you've come to expect from.
Like other areas of your home the patio doors have to be aligned properly for them to work efficiently. Over time, heat and cold weather, dirt and debris, and other factors can cause the hinges, door frame and locking mechanism to shift. If these components are not aligned, it's like trying to fit keys into the wrong keyhole it won't work. If you follow these steps, you can fix a problem that might have appeared to be unfixable. Do yourself a big pat on your back for tackling the job and reclaiming your patio door's closed position! We're sure you won't have any issues opening or closing the door from here on. Good luck! We're here for you if there are any questions or concerns.
