How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A safe patio door is a crucial element of home security. If it becomes difficult to lock, it can be a nightmare.

In many 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 it or lubricating it. If these methods of troubleshooting don't work, you can 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 stymied, saving your money on repair costs and helping your door reach its full lifespan.

The first step in the process is to clean your lock's the cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or another penetrating spray to complete this. Spray a small amount into the keyhole and work the key through and out to spread the oil. Avoid using household solvents or other oils which could harm your locks. Also, make sure to spray a little on the key itself.

When your lock's cylinder is clean and lubricated, it's time to apply. You can use a silicone spray or a dry lubricant such as graphite powder. Graphite powder has a long life and doesn't swell up like liquid lubricants do, so it's a great choice for lubricating locks that stick. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand moist and cold temperatures, however they may require multiple coats to be effective.

You can also apply de-icer spray, which is specifically made for cold weather. It will melt frost and ice off the mechanism of your lock. A few sprays of this will aid your lock unlock and then lock again easily.

How to repair Patio Door lock often you need to lubricate your locks will rely on environmental factors. The location of your door will impact its performance. A location that is near the ocean can expose the door to salty air, which can cause corrosion. The standard rule of thumb is to grease your locks twice per year or more often when you live in a region that has extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your emergency patio door repair door locks can save money on who repairs sliding patio doors, and ensure that it continues to function in a good way for many years.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock doesn't function properly there's a chance that one or more of its parts could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repair of a faulty lock on your patio door could help prevent further damage and guarantee the security of your doors. To fix a locked or non-locked patio door, you can tighten loose screws, adjust the lock mechanism, or replace the lock cylinder.

Start by examining the exterior and interior of the lock to find signs of damage or misalignment. Often, patio door locks expand and contract in hot or cold weather and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to become misaligned and cause issues when closing or opening the door.

Next, examine the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. A corroded or obstructed lock cylinder may be difficult to open and may cause damage to the cam, latch springs or lock pins. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you may be able of removing any obstructions using the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the issue continues, you may need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it in order to identify the root of the problem.

If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed into the lock body you can loosen it by removing an elongated screw within the faceplate of the cylinder. Unscrewing this screw will allow you to move the cylinder around and could aid in restoring alignment.

Check the cylinder for a small tab that moves up and down using the key, typically 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 with a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed, then reinserted.

If the lock cylinder of yours is stuck, you may be able restore proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate and the knob or handle can be pulled in and withdrawn. Reassemble the lock once you have restored proper alignment. Test it to see if it works. If your patio door lock remains difficult to use, it's likely that another component such as the latch or latch spring is damaged or worn out and will require replacement.

Tighten the Screws

Over time, regular use temperatures, cold and hot weather dust, dirt and even dirt can wear down patio door locks. If not properly maintained the delicate parts could wear out and cause your door to not lock properly. Most lock issues can be repaired with a few easy steps.

The first thing to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to clean any dirt or dust that may be present. Then, dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts operating smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases as they can attract dust and debris which could cause more problems.

If your patio door is equipped with a security foot lock, make sure the foot lock is aligned with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will require adjusting the screws that secure the foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Loosen the screw using the Robertson screwdriver and gently push it up or down to adjust the foot lock if needed. Once the adjustment is done you can tighten the screw.

When it comes time to repair a patio door handle, the most common problem involves misalignment between the strike plate and the latch. This could be due to normal wear and tear, or it could simply be due to the fact that the latch is set higher or lower than it should be.

Then, take off the handle from the old one and locate the bolts or screws that are holding it in place. Make sure to keep track of them as you will need them later when installing the new handle. Next, remove the old spindle, then slide the new spindle into place on the inside of the door, ensuring that it is properly aligned with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Reinstall the interior and external handles once the spindle is been installed. Make sure that they are aligned properly with the screws or bolts holding them in place.

Close and secure the patio door after you have made any necessary adjustments. If everything is in proper alignment, the door should open and close smoothly without any additional force. If you still have problems you may have to move your latch or strike plate or replace the lock cylinder.

Replace the latch

If your patio door locks still don't work, it may be time to replace the latch. Replacing a lock is a moderately easy home improvement project that a majority of homeowners can complete themselves. Begin by sliding patio door repair service the patio doors all the way out and unscrewing your existing lock from the inside of the door. Carefully study how the existing lock is screwed into both the door and jamb to get a sense for what kind 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 mounted on the outside edge of the door frame) and then adjust it vertically or horizontally to align it with the latch hole in the door jamb. Once you have repositioned the latch plate then tighten the screws and fix it with screws.

After all the parts of your patio door have been moved or replaced, you can reassemble them and secure them as instructed by the manufacturer. After you've completed the process checking the latch. Make sure it is fitted correctly and that it is able to latch when the door is closed. If it does, then your patio door lock has been installed correctly and is now ready to provide the security and privacy you've come to anticipate from.

Like other components of your home, need to be aligned properly to work effectively. Over time, heat and cold weather, dirt and debris, and other elements can cause the hinges, door frame and locking mechanism to shift slightly. If these components are not aligned it's similar to trying to fit keys into the wrong keyhole: It just doesn't work. By following these simple steps, you will be able to fix an issue that been thought to be impossible to fix. You should pat yourself on the back for taking on the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're betting you won't face any more trouble opening or closing the door from now to the end. Good luck! We're here if you have any concerns or questions.