How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A secure patio door is essential to home security. If it becomes difficult to lock, it could be a nightmare.

A locked that isn't working properly could be the result of misalignment or even simple wear and tear. It's possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting it or lubricating it. If these solutions aren't working, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.

Clean and Lubricate

A door lock may become difficult to open and close because of dust, dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication can aid in preventing your security device from becoming stiff or stuck. This will save you money on repair bills and extend the lifespan of your door.

To begin, you will have to clean the lock's cylinder. To do this, you'll need a spray can of penetrating oil such as WD-40. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole and then turn the key to distribute the oil. Avoid using household oils or other solvents that can damage your locks. Make sure to spray a little on the key itself as well.

After your lock cylinder is clean it's time to lubricate. You can use a silicone spray or a dry lubricant like graphite powder. Graphite is a lubricant that lasts for a long time that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid oils. It's a great option for locking lubrication. Silicone sprays are water-resistant and can withstand moist and freezing temperatures, however it might require multiple coats to work effectively.

You can also apply de-icer spray, which is specifically designed for cold weather. It will break up ice and frost on the mechanism of your lock. This will help you unlock your lock and then lock it more easily.

How often you need to lubricate your locks will depend on the environmental conditions. The location of your door can affect its performance. A coastal location can expose it to salty air, which could cause corrosion. It is recommended to lubricate locks at least two times each year, or more often when you live in an area with severe weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can help save the cost of repairs and ensure that it will continue to work properly for many years.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock doesn't perform as it should it could be because one or more of its components may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair of a faulty patio door lock will prevent any further damage and ensure your doors are safe. You can Repair Patio door lock doors that are locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder.

Begin by inspecting the exterior and interior of the lock for 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 mechanism to be misaligned and cause issues when opening or closing the door.

Examine the keyway hole on the lock cylinder. An obstructed or corroded lock cylinder may be difficult to open and could eventually cause damage to the pins, cams or latch springs. If the cylinder does not fit easily, you can clear any obstructions by using a pair of tweezers and a lock. If the issue continues, you may need to take out the cylinder in order to locate the root of the issue.

If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed into the lock body you can loosen it by unscrewing an elongated screw within the cylinder faceplate. This screw lets you rotate the cylinder, and could even aid in restoring the alignment.

Look for a small tab that is movable with the key. It's usually located close to the end. This tiny clip, also known as a "release Tab" will stop the cylinder from sliding into the lock body all the way. A standard key can slide this tab back to let the cylinder out and allow it to be removed and put back in.

If your lock cylinder is stuck, you might be able to restore the proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt connects with the strike plate and the handle or knob can be pushed in and pulled out. After you have restored the proper alignment, put back together the lock and check its functionality. If your patio door lock still isn't working properly It is likely that another component like the latch spring or latch needs to be replaced.

Lock the Screws

Patio door locks are susceptible to damage from regular usage, extreme temperatures dust and dirt. Unless properly cared for the delicate parts could get worn out and cause your door to fail to lock properly. Fortunately, the majority of lock issues are easily fixable with just a few simple maintenance steps.

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

Next, if your patio door has an electronic foot lock for security, make sure the foot lock is aligned with the strike plate. In most cases, this will only require you to adjust the screws that hold your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Remove the screw using a Robertson screwdriver and gently move it up or down to adjust the foot lock if needed. Once the adjustment is complete, tighten the screw securely.

The most frequent issue in the repair patio door lock of patio door handles is misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This could be due to everyday wear and tear or it could be that the latch is placed higher or lower than it ought to be.

Begin by removing the old handle, then identify the screws or bolts that secure it. Make sure you keep track of these as you will need them later when installing the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle and then slide the new spindle into position on the side of the door, ensuring that it is properly aligned with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Once the new spindle has been installed, reinstall the handles on the exterior and interior to ensure that they are properly aligned with the bolts or screws that hold them in place.

Once you've made any necessary adjustments to your patio door, make sure to test it by locking and closing the door. If the door is correctly aligned, it will open and shut smoothly without needing any additional force. If you're still having trouble then you may need to reposition the strike plate or latch or the lock cylinder may be damaged and require to be replaced.

Replace the Latch

If your patio door locks still not working, it might be time to replace the lock. Replacing a lock is a relatively simple home improvement project that a majority of homeowners can complete by themselves. Start by sliding the patio door all the way open and removing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Be sure to study the way in which the current lock is screwed to the door and the jamb to get a sense for what kind of lock you'll have to purchase.

Before installing 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 then adjust it horizontally or vertically to align it with the latch hole in the jamb of the door. After you've adjusted the strike plate, screw it back into position and tighten the screws.

After all the components have been moved or adjusted after which you can assemble and secure your patio door according to the instructions of 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, then your patio door lock is installed correctly and is ready to give you the security and privacy you've come to expect from.

Like other parts of your home your patio doors also need to be properly aligned for them to function efficiently. Over time, temperatures, cold, dirt, and debris can cause the hinges and door frame to shift. If these parts aren't aligned it's similar to trying to fit a key into the wrong keyhole: It just doesn't work. It is possible to fix the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these simple steps. So, give yourself a pat on the back for tackling this task and regaining your patio door repair service door's locked position! We're betting you won't face any issues opening or closing the door from now on out. Best of luck! We're here to help if you have any concerns or questions.