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How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is a crucial element of home security. It can be a hassle if your door is difficult to lock.
A stubborn lock can be the result of misalignment or even wear and wear and tear. It's possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating the lock. If these troubleshooting techniques don't work you can replace both the mortise and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock can become difficult to open and close due to dust, dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication could help prevent your security device becoming stiff or stuck. This will save you money in repair costs and prolong the life of your door.
In the beginning, you'll need to clean the lock's cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or another penetrating spray to complete this. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole, and then turn the key to distribute it. Avoid using household oils or other solvents that can damage your locks, and make sure to spray a little on the key itself.
After cleaning your lock's cylinder, it's time to grease. You can use a silicone spray or dry lubricant like graphite powder. Graphite powder has a long life and doesn't attract dust like liquid lubricants do, which is why it's a great option for lubricating sticky locks. Silicone sprays are able to endure temperatures of minus 0 degrees and are resistant to water. However, they may require several coats to be efficient.
You can also apply a de-icer spray, which is specifically designed for cold weather and will lift frost and ice off the lock mechanism. This will allow you to unlock your lock and then lock it more easily.
How often you should oil your locks will be contingent on the environment. A location with a coastline will expose your door to salty air and lead to corrosion, and temperature changes can impact the performance of your lock. It is recommended that you ensure that your locks are lubricated at least twice each year, or more often in areas with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door continues to perform as it should for years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock does not perform as it should there's a chance that one or more of its components may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair of a damaged patio door lock will prevent additional damage and ensure that your doors are secure. To fix a locked or unlocked patio door, tighten loose screws, adjust the lock mechanism, or replace the lock cylinder.
Start by examining the exterior and interior of the lock for signs of damage or misalignment. Often, patio door locks expand and contract during temperatures that are cold or hot and may shift slightly over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to not align 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 clear any obstructions using a pair tweezers and a lock. If the issue persists, you may need to take out the cylinder in order to locate the source.
If sliding patio door repair hasn't been screwed into the body of the lock you can loosen it by unscrewing a flat screw inside the cylinder's faceplate. By loosening this screw, it will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could help restore proper alignment.
Look for the small tab that is movable with the key. It is usually close to the end. This tiny clip, referred to as a "release tab", keeps the cylinder from sliding into the lock body. A standard key will slide this tab back to allow the cylinder to be released and allow it to be removed and reinserted.
If the cylinder of your lock has become stuck it is possible to restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt is engaged with the strike plate. The handle or knob can then be pulled and withdrawn. After you have restored the proper alignment, you can reassemble the lock and check its performance. If the lock on your patio door isn't functioning properly, it is likely that a different component, such as the latch spring or latch needs to be replaced.
Lock the Screws
Over time, the use of regular, hot and cold weather, dirt, and dust can cause damage to patio door locks. These delicate parts may be damaged if not properly maintained, causing your door to stop locking properly. Most lock problems are easily repaired with a few easy steps.
It is recommended to first clean the lock mechanism. Use a dampened cloth to remove any dust or dirt that might be found. Then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can help keep moving parts running smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases as they can attract dust and debris, which can cause further problems.
Then, if your patio door has a security foot lock, make sure the foot lock is aligned with the strike plate. In most cases, this will only require you to adjust the screws that secure your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver, and then gently push it up or down to adjust the foot lock as required. After the adjustment is completed, tighten the screw securely.
The most frequent issue in the repair of patio door handles is the misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This could be caused by wear and tear, or the latch could be placed above or below where it should be.
Begin by removing the old handle, then find the bolts or screws that secure it. Be sure to keep track of these as you will need them when installing the new handle. Then, remove the old spindle and place the new one into place on the inside of the door. Make sure that it is in alignment with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Install the exterior and interior handles after the spindle has been installed. Make sure that they are aligned correctly with the screws or bolts to secure them.
Close and lock the patio door once you have made any adjustments that are required. If everything is in alignment, the door should open and close smoothly without additional force. If you're having difficulty it could be necessary to move 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. Replacing a lock is a fairly simple home improvement project that a majority of homeowners can do themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door all the way open and then removing the current lock from the interior side of the door. Be sure to study the way in which the current lock is screwed into the door and the door jamb to discern the kind of lock you'll have to purchase.
Before installing the new latch, loosen the 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 holes for the latch. After you've adjusted the strike plate, secure it in position and tighten the screws.
After all components have been repositioned or changed then assemble and secure the patio door in accordance with the instructions given by the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch to ensure that it is in place and fits the latch hasp when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is functioning just as it should and is able to provide the security and privacy you've come to expect from your doors.
Like other areas of your home, your patio doors need to be aligned properly for they to function effectively. Over time, heat and cold weather dirt and debris and other elements can cause the hinges, door frame, and locking mechanism to shift. Misaligned hinges, door frames, and locking mechanisms are similar to trying to put keys into the wrong keyhole. It doesn't work. By following these easy steps, you will be able to fix a problem that might have seemed unfixable. So, give yourself a pat on the back for tackling this task and reclaiming the door that was locked! We're betting you won't face any issues opening or closing the door from now on. Have fun! We're here for you if there are any questions or concerns.
