How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A secure patio door is a crucial element of home security. When yours is difficult to lock, it can be frustrating.

In most cases, a stubborn lock is the result of the wrong alignment or just wear and tear. It may be possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these methods of troubleshooting fail, you may replace the mortise lock and handle.

Clean and Lubricate

A door lock may become difficult to open and close over time 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 will extend the lifespan of your door.

The first step is to clean your lock's cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or a similar penetrating spray to do this. Spray a small amount into the keyhole and work the key in and out to distribute the oil. Avoid using solvents like household oil or other which could damage your locks. Spray a bit on the key.

When your lock's cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. You can apply dry lubricants such as graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite powder lasts for a long time and doesn't attract dust like liquid lubricants do, which is why it's a great choice for lubricating sticky locks. Silicone sprays can withstand freezing temperatures and are resistant to water. However, they might require multiple coats to be efficient.

You can also use de-icer spray that is made for cold weather. It will melt frost and ice off the mechanism of your lock. A few coats of this will allow your lock unlock and then re-lock more easily.

How often you should lubricate your locks will depend on environmental factors. A location near the coast will expose your door to salty air and cause corrosion, and temperature variations can influence the efficiency of your lock. It is recommended that you regularly lubricate your locks at least two times a year or more often if your area has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can help save money on repairs, and ensure that it will continue to function properly for a long time.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock does not function properly there's a chance that one or more of its components could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of a broken lock on your patio doors repairs near me door could help prevent further damage and guarantee the security of your doors. You can fix a patio door glass repair door that is locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism, or replacing the lock cylinder.

Begin by looking at the exterior and interior of the lock to determine whether there are 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 stop aligning correctly and can cause issues when opening or closing the patio door.

Examine the keyway hole on the lock cylinder. A corroded or obstructed lock cylinder may be difficult to access, and may cause damage to the latch springs, cam or lock pins. If the cylinder doesn't fit easily, you can clear any obstructions by using a pair of tweezers and a picklock. If the issue continues, you may have to remove the cylinder to determine the cause.

If the lock cylinder isn't secured to the lock body then you can loosen it by removing an elongated screw within the cylinder's faceplate. This screw will let you to rotate the cylinder and it could also help restore alignment.

Look for the small tab that moves along with the key. It is usually near the end. This tiny clip, referred to as a "release tab" prevents the cylinder from sliding all the way into the body of the lock. This tab can be moved back using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed, then returned.

If your lock cylinder is stuck and is not aligned, you can fix it by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt engages the strike plate. The handle or knob can then be pulled and withdrawn. Reassemble the lock once you have restored alignment. Check it out for its functionality. If your patio door lock is still difficult to use, it's likely that another component such as the latch or latch spring is damaged or worn and will need to be replaced.

Lock the Screws

Locks for patio doors can be damaged by frequent usage, extreme temperatures dust, dirt and. These delicate parts may be damaged if they are not maintained properly, causing your door to not lock properly. Most lock issues can be fixed with a few simple steps.

You should first clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth remove any dirt or dust that might be present, and then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning the components, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts running smoothly and effectively. Avoid lubricants with oil bases since they could attract dust and debris which could cause more problems.

If your patio door is equipped with an electronic footlock for security, make sure that the footlock is aligned properly with the strike plate. In most instances, this will require adjustment of the screws that hold the foot lock to the frame of your patio door. To adjust the foot lock, loosen the screw with the help of a Robertson screwdriver and gently pull it upwards or downwards. Once the adjustment is complete you can tighten the screw.

The most common problem 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 set lower or higher than it should be.

Then, remove the handle that was previously used and locate the screws or bolts that hold it in the first place. Be sure to keep track of them as you will need them when installing the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle, then slide the new spindle into the door on the side of the door, making sure that it is in alignment with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Reinstall the interior and external handles once the spindle is been installed. Make sure that they're aligned properly with the bolts or screws that hold them in place.

After you've made any needed adjustments to your patio door, be sure to test it by closing and locking the door. If the door is properly aligned, it will open and shut smoothly without needing any additional force. If you're still experiencing difficulty, you might need to adjust the latch or strike plate or the lock cylinder could be damaged and need to be replaced.

Replace the Latch

If your patio door locks aren't working, it could be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can replace a lock themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door repair company doors completely out and unscrewing your existing lock on the inside of the door. Carefully study how to repair patio door lock the existing lock is screwed to the door and the jamb to discern the kind of lock you'll have to purchase.

Before you install the new latch, loosen the screws securing the strike plate (the part of the lock that's positioned on the outside of the door frame) and adjust it vertically or horizontally to align it with the hole in the door jamb. Once you have repositioned the latch plate then tighten the screws and screw it into place.

After all components have been moved or adjusted, assemble and secure the patio door as instructed by the manufacturer. When you're done, check the latch to ensure that it is in place and fits 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 will provide you with the security and privacy you've come expect from your doors.

Like other components of your home should be properly aligned to function efficiently. Over time, temperatures and cold weather dirt and debris and other elements can cause the hinges, door frame, and the locking mechanism to shift. If these components are not aligned it's like trying to fit keys into the wrong keyhole and it doesn't work. It is possible to fix a problem which seemed impossible by following these easy steps. Give yourself a pat on the back for tackling the job and reclaiming your patio door glass repair door's closed position! We bet that 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.