How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is essential to ensure your home's security. It can be a hassle if it isn't easy to lock.
In a lot of instances, a locked that is not working is the result of the wrong alignment or just wear and tear. It is possible to restore the lock's function by adjusting or lubricating it. If these solutions aren't working, you can replace both the mortise and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dust, dirt and grime can make it difficult to open or close doors. Regular cleaning and lubrication routine will prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, saving you money on repairs and allowing your door to enjoy its full potential.
To begin, you will need to clean the lock's the cylinder. To do this, you'll need spray cans of penetrating oil, like WD-40. Spray a small amount of it into the keyhole, then work the key through and out to spread the oil. Avoid using household solvents or other oils that could damage your locks, and make sure you spray some on the key itself.
After your lock cylinder is clean it's time to lubricate. You can apply an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant such as graphite powder. Graphite powder has a long life and doesn't attract dust as liquid lubricants, so it's an excellent choice to lubricate locks that are sticky. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand both humid and freezing temperatures, however it may require multiple coats to work effectively.
You can also use a de-icer spray that is designed for cold weather. It will melt frost and ice off the mechanism of your lock. This will help you unlock your lock and then relock it more easily.
How often you have to lubricate your locks will rely on the environment. The location of your door will impact its performance. A location near the coast could expose the door to salty air, which can cause corrosion. The general rule of thumb is to grease your locks every two years, or more frequently if you reside in an area with extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can save the cost of repairs and ensure that it continues to work properly for many years.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock does not function properly there's a chance that one or more of its components may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of a faulty lock on your patio door could prevent further damage and ensure the security of your doors. To fix a locked or unlocked patio door, tighten loose screws and adjust the mechanism of the lock, or replace the lock cylinder.
Begin by inspecting the exterior and inside of the lock for indications of damage or misalignment. Most often, patio door locks expand and contract with hot or cold weather and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to stop aligning correctly and lead to problems with opening or closing the patio door.
Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. A corroded or obstructed lock cylinder could be difficult to open, and can cause damage to the latch springs, cam or the lock pins. If the cylinder does not fit easily, you can remove any obstructions with a pair of tweezers and a lock. If the issue persists then you'll need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to locate the cause of the obstruction.
If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed to the lock body, it can be loosen by removing the screw on the cylinder 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 moves with the key. It's usually located at the end. This little clip, called a "release tab", keeps the cylinder from sliding all the way into the lock body. A standard key can slide this tab back to let the cylinder out and allow it to be removed and then reinserted.
If your lock cylinder is stuck, you may 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 pulled in and withdrawn. Once you've restored the proper alignment, you can reassemble the lock and test its functioning. If your patio door lock is difficult to use, it's a sign that another component such as the latch or latch spring is damaged or worn out and may require replacement.
Tighten the Screws
Over time, regular use, hot and cold weather, dirt, and dust can cause damage to patio door locks. These delicate parts can be damaged if they are not properly maintained, causing your door to not lock properly. Fortunately, the majority of lock issues can be easily fixed by following a few easy maintenance steps.
It is recommended to first clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to clean any dirt or dust that might be present, and dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts functioning efficiently and smoothly. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, they could draw dust and dirt which can cause further issues.
Next, 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 require you to adjust the screws that attach your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. To adjust the foot lock simply loosen the screw using the help of a Robertson screwdriver and gently pull it upwards or downwards. Once repairmywindowsanddoors is done you can tighten the screw.
The most common problem when it comes to fixing patio door handles is misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This could be due to normal wear and tear or it could be that the latch is placed higher or lower than it ought to be.
Start by removing the handle, then identify the screws or bolts that secure it. Be sure to keep track of these as you will need them when installing the new handle. Next, remove the old spindle, and then slide the new one into place on the side of the door, making sure that it is in alignment with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Once the new spindle has been installed put back the handles for both exterior and interior to ensure that they are properly aligned with the bolts or screws that hold them in place.
Close and lock the patio door after you have made any necessary adjustments. If everything is in alignment, the door should be able to open and close smoothly, without any additional force. If you're still having 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 still not working, it could be time to replace the lock. Most homeowners can change locks themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door all the way open and unscrewing the existing lock from the interior side of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed into both the door and the door jamb so that you can determine the type of lock you'll have to purchase.
Before installing the new latch remove the screws that hold the strike plate (the part of the lock that's mounted on the outside of the door frame) and then adjust it either horizontally or vertically to align it with the hole in the jamb in the door. After you've repositioned the latch plate you can tighten the screws, then fix it with screws.
After all the components have been repositioned or changed after which you can assemble and secure your patio door according to the instructions of the manufacturer. After you've completed the process testing the latch. Check to see if it fits properly and catches the latch when the door is shut. If it does, then your patio door lock is installed correctly and is ready to provide the security and privacy that you have come to expect.
Patio doors, like other parts of your house must be aligned correctly to function efficiently. Over time, temperatures, cold, dirt, and debris can cause hinges and door frame to shift. Misaligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are similar to trying to put a key in the wrong keyhole. It doesn't work. You can solve an issue that appeared impossible by following these easy steps. So give yourself an award for tackling this task and reclaiming your patio door's lock position! We're sure you'll not have any issues opening or closing your patio door once more. Have fun! We're here for you if there are any concerns or questions.