How to repair patio door lock (hackett-fry.Federatedjournals.com) a Bad Patio Door Lock

A secure patio door is an essential part of home security. It can be frustrating when yours is difficult to lock.

A lock that is not working can be caused by misalignment or simply wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or changing its position may help to restore its function. If these methods of troubleshooting fail, you may replace the mortise lock and handle.

Clean and Lubricate

Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open and close the door lock. A regular cleaning and lubrication routine can keep your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, saving you money on repair bills and allowing your door to reach its full potential.

In the beginning, you'll need to clean the lock's cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or another penetrating spray to accomplish this. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole and then turn the key to spread it. Avoid using household oils or other solvents that can damage your locks, and make sure you spray some on the key itself.

After your lock cylinder is clean and lubricated, it's time to apply. You can apply an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. 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 both moist and freezing temperatures, however it might require multiple coats to work effectively.

You can also apply de-icer spray that is designed for cold weather. It will remove ice and frost on the lock mechanism. This will allow you to unlock your lock and then relock it more easily.

How often you need to lubricate your locks will rely on environmental factors. A location near the coast exposes your door to salty air and lead to corrosion, and temperature variations can impact how well your lock works. The standard rule of thumb is to oil your locks every two years and more frequently if you live in a region that has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door lock repair near me door will function as it should for many years to come.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock isn't functioning properly, it could be that one or more of the components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and timely repairs of a broken lock on your patio door could prevent further damage and ensure the security of your doors. To fix a locked or unlocked patio door, you can tighten loose screws or adjust the mechanism of the lock, or replace the lock cylinder.

Begin by inspecting the exterior and interior of the lock to find signs of damage or misalignment. Locks for patio doors may expand or contract depending on the weather, and may even shift over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanisms to not align properly and lead to problems with opening or closing the patio doors repair near me door.

Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. A corroded or blocked cylinder is difficult to open and can eventually cause damage to the pins of the lock, cams, or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't easy to insert, you might be able to dislodge any obstruction using a pair of tweezers, or a picklock. If the issue continues it may be necessary to remove the cylinder and disassemble it to locate the source of the obstruction.

If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed into the lock body then you can loosen it by unscrewing a flat screw inside the faceplate of the cylinder. Loosening this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and may help restore proper alignment.

Examine the cylinder for a small tab that can move up and down with the key, typically towards the end. This small clip, also known as a "release Tab" will stop the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. This tab can be moved back using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed and then reinserted.

If the lock cylinder of yours is stuck, you might be able to 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 pulled out. Once you've restored the proper alignment, reassemble the lock and check its functionality. If your patio sliding door repair door lock isn't functioning properly, it is likely that another component like the latch spring or latch requires replacement.

Lock the Screws

Over time, frequent use temperatures, cold and hot weather, dirt, and dust can take their toll on patio door locks. If not properly maintained the delicate parts could get worn out and cause your door to not lock properly. Most lock issues can be solved with just a few steps.

The first thing you need to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth clean any dirt or dust that may be present and then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts operating efficiently and smoothly. Avoid lubricants that have oil bases since they could attract dust and other debris, which can cause further issues.

Then, if your patio door is equipped with a foot lock that is secure be sure that the foot lock is aligned with the strike plate. In the majority of instances, this will require adjustment of the screws that hold the foot lock to the patio door frame. To adjust the footlock, loosen the screw with a Robertson screwdriver, and then gently push it upwards or downwards. Once the adjustment has been completed then tighten the screw.

The most frequent issue when it comes to fixing patio door handles is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This can be due to everyday wear and tear, or the latch could be set lower or higher than it should be.

Then, remove the handle that was previously used and locate the bolts or screws that hold it in the place. Be sure to keep track of these as you will require them when installing the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle, and then slide the new spindle into position on the side of the door, ensuring that it is in alignment with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Once the new spindle is installed, reinstall the interior and exterior handles, making sure 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 locking and closing the door. If everything is in alignment, the door should open and close without any additional force. If you still have problems it may be necessary to move your strike plate or latch, or replace the lock cylinder.

Replace the Latch

If your patio door locks not working, it might be time to replace the lock. Most homeowners can change the lock themselves. Begin by sliding glass patio doors repair the patio door open and unscrewing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed into both the door and the door jamb so that you can discern the type of lock you'll need purchase.

Before installing the new latch take off the screws that secure the strike plate (the part of the lock that's set on the outside edge of the door frame) and adjust it horizontally or vertically to align it with the latch hole in the jamb in the door. 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 repositioned or replaced, reassemble and secure them according to the instructions given by the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch to make sure that it fits and is able to catch the latch's hasp when the door is closed. If it does the lock will be able to latch onto the door. If it does, your patio door lock is functioning exactly as it should, and is able to provide you with the security and privacy you've come to appreciate from your home's doors.

As with other parts of your home the patio doors have to be properly aligned in order for they to function effectively. Over time, heat and cold weather, dirt and debris, and other factors can cause frames, hinges, and locking mechanism to shift slightly. If these components are not aligned it's similar to trying to insert keys into the wrong hole for a key it won't work. You can solve an issue that appeared impossible by following these simple steps. Give yourself a pat on the back for tackling the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're sure you won't have any issues opening or closing the door from here on out. Good luck! We're here for you if there are any concerns or questions.