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How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is essential to ensure your home's security. If it is difficult to lock, it can be frustrating.
In a lot of cases, a stubborn lock is caused by misalignment or simple wear and tear. It may be possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating the lock. If patio door repairs aren't working, you can replace both the mortise and handle.
sliding patio door repair and Lubricate
A door lock may become difficult to open and close due to dust, dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication can 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 the cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or a similar penetrating spray to accomplish this. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole, and then turn the key to spread it. Avoid using solvents like household oil or other which could damage your locks. Spray a little on the key.
After cleaning your lock's cylinder, it is time to lubricate. You can apply a silicone spray or dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. Graphite powder is long-lasting and doesn't swell up like liquid lubricants do, which is why it's a great choice for lubricating sticky locks. Silicone sprays are able to be able to withstand temperatures that are below freezing and are resistant to water. However, they might require several coats to be efficient.
You can also use a de-icer spray specially designed for cold weather and can loosen ice and frost from the lock mechanism. A few sprays of this will help your lock unlock and then lock more easily.
The climate will determine how often you need to lubricate locks. The location of your door will impact its performance. A coastal location can expose it to salty air, which could cause corrosion. The most common rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks at least twice a year or more often if you reside in a region that has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure that your patio door continues to function as it should for many years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't operating correctly, it could indicate that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and timely repairs of a damaged lock on your patio door could prevent further damage and ensure the security of your doors. You can repair the patio door that is locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, altering the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder.
Begin by inspecting the exterior and inside of the lock for indications of damage or misalignment. Locks for patio doors may expand or contract depending on the weather, and could shift over time. This slight shift can cause the locking mechanisms to stop aligning properly and cause problems when opening or closing the door.
Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder may be difficult to open, and can cause damage to the latch springs, cam or lock pins. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you may be able of removing any obstruction using the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the problem persists you may need to take out the cylinder to determine the cause.
If the lock cylinder is not been screwed to the body of the lock and is loose, it can be loosened by removing the screw on the cylinder faceplate. Loosening this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and may help to restore alignment.
Examine the cylinder for a small tab that can move upwards and downwards with the key, generally towards the end. This small clip, sometimes known as a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body all the way. A standard key can slide this tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and then reinserted.
If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you may be able restore proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt engages with the strike plate and the handle or knob can be pushed into and out. Reassemble the lock after you have restored alignment. Test it to see if it works. If your patio door lock remains difficult to use, it's a sign that a different component, such as the latch spring or latch is damaged or worn out and will require replacement.
Lock the Screws
Locks for patio doors can be damaged by regular usage, extreme temperatures dust and dirt. Unless properly cared for the delicate parts could get worn out and cause your door to not lock properly. Most lock issues can be fixed with a few simple steps.
Clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt that may be present. Then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning the components, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts operating smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants that have oil bases as they can attract dust and other debris and cause additional issues.
If your patio door comes with a security footlock, make sure that the footlock is aligned properly with the strike plate. In most cases, this will only require adjustment of the screws that hold the foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver, and then gently move it upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock as required. Once the adjustment is done then tighten the screw.
When it comes time to repair the handle of a patio door, the most common problem is misalignment between the latch and strike plate. This can be caused by wear and tear or the latch may be positioned above or below where it should be.
Begin by removing the handle, then find the bolts or screws which hold it in place. Keep on track of the screws or bolts, since you'll need them to install the new handle. Next, remove the old spindle, then slide the new one into position on the side of the door, making sure that it is in alignment with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Once the new spindle is in place then reinstall the interior and exterior handles and ensure that they are aligned with the screws or bolts that secure them.
Close and lock the patio door after you have made any necessary adjustments. If the door is properly aligned, it will open and shut without needing any additional force. If you still have problems it may be necessary to adjust the position of your latch or strike plate or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks are not working, it might be time to replace the lock. Most homeowners can change a lock themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door all the way open and removing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed to the door and jamb so that you can discern the type of lock you'll have to purchase.
Before you install the new latch take off the screws that secure the strike plate (the part of the lock that's mounted on the outside edge of the door frame) and adjust it horizontally or vertically to align it with the hole in the jamb of the door. After you've repositioned the latch plate then tighten the screws and fix it with screws.
After all the components have been repositioned or changed after which you can assemble and secure your patio door as instructed by the manufacturer. When you're done, check the latch to ensure that it fits and is able to catch the latch's hasp when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is now functioning just as it should and is can provide you with the security and privacy you've come to expect from your doors.
Like other areas of your home the patio doors have to be properly aligned for them to function efficiently. Over time, temperature, cold, dirt, and debris can cause the hinges and the frame of the door to shift. If these components are not aligned it's similar to trying to fit a key in the wrong keyhole it won't work. You can fix the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these easy steps. So, give yourself an award for tackling this task and regaining your patio door's locked position! We're betting you won't face any more trouble opening or closing the door from now on out. Good luck! We are here to assist should you require assistance or have any questions.
