10 Facts About Repair Patio Door Lock That Make You Feel Instantly An Upbeat Mood
How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is a crucial element 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 even wear and tear. It may be possible to restore the lock's function 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 be difficult to open and close over time due to dirt, dust and grime. A regular cleaning and lubrication routine will stop your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, saving you money on repairs and allowing your door to enjoy its maximum lifespan.
The first step in the process is to clean your lock cylinder. To do this, use spray cans of penetrating oil such as WD-40. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole, and then rotate the key to distribute it. Avoid using household oil or other solvents which could damage your locks. Spray a small amount on the key.
After your lock cylinder is clean it's time to lubricate. You can apply dry lubricants such as graphite powder or sprays of silicone. glass doors repair is long-lasting and doesn't attract dust as liquid lubricants, so it's a great option for lubricating locks that stick. Silicone sprays can withstand freezing temperatures and are impervious to water. However, they may require several coats to be efficient.
You can also apply a de-icer spray, which is specifically designed for colder weather and will loosen ice and frost from the lock mechanism. This will allow you to unlock your lock, and then lock it more easily.
How often you should lubricate your locks will depend on the environmental conditions. A location near the coast exposes your door to salty air, which can cause corrosion. Temperature variations can affect the performance of your lock. It is recommended that you ensure that your locks are lubricated at least once each year, or more often if your area has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks will save costs on repairs, and ensure that it will continue to function properly for many years.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't working properly, it could be that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair of a faulty patio door lock can prevent further damage and ensure that your doors are safe. To fix a locked or non-locked patio door, you can tighten loose screws or adjust the mechanism of the lock, or replace the lock cylinder.
Start by examining the exterior and interior of the lock for signs of damage or misalignment. Locks for patio doors can expand or contract in response to the weather and could shift over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to misalign and cause problems when opening or closing the door.
Next, examine the lock cylinder to find any obstructions in the keyway hole. A corroded or blocked cylinder may be difficult to open and can eventually cause damage to the pins of the lock, cams or latch springs. If the cylinder is difficult to insert, you might be able of removing any obstructions using the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the problem persists then you'll need to remove the cylinder and disassemble it to find the source of the obstruction.
If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the lock body then you can loosen it by unscrewing an elongated screw within the cylinder's faceplate. This screw lets you to rotate the cylinder and it could also help restore alignment.
Look for an elongated tab that moves along with the key. It's usually near the end. This little clip, also known as a "release tab" is what keeps the cylinder from sliding into the body of the lock. A standard key will move this tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and reinserted.
If your lock cylinder is stuck, you may be able restore proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt engages with the strike plate and the knob or handle can be pulled in and out. Reassemble the lock after you have restored the proper alignment. Test it for functionality. If your patio door lock is difficult to use, it's likely that a component, like the latch spring or latch is worn or damaged and may require replacement.
Make sure you tighten the Screws
Over time, regular use as well as cold and hot weather, dirt, and dust can wear down patio door locks. These delicate components can wear out if not maintained properly, causing your door to stop locking properly. Fortunately, most lock issues can be fixed easily with a few simple maintenance steps.
The first thing to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to clean any dirt or dust that may be present and then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning some silicone-based lubricant will help keep the moving parts functioning efficiently and smoothly. Avoid lubricants that contain oil bases, however they could attract dust and debris which could cause issues.
If your patio door is fitted with an electronic footlock for security, make sure that the footlock is properly aligned with the strike plate. In most cases this will only require you to adjust the screws that attach your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver, and then gently move it upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock as required. Once the adjustment has been completed you can tighten the screw.
When it comes to repairing the handle on a patio door the most frequent issue involves misalignment between the strike plate and latch. This can be due to everyday wear and tear, or the latch may be positioned above or below where it should be.
Then, remove the old handle and locate the bolts or screws that are holding it in place. Keep in mind the bolts or screws because you will need them to install the new handle. Remove the spindle that was in use and slide the new one into place on the interior of the door. Make sure it is properly aligned with the holes in both the exterior and interior handle. Once the new spindle is installed put back the handles on the exterior and interior and ensure that they are in alignment with the bolts or screws which 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 without needing any additional force. If you're still having 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 do not work, it might be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can change the lock themselves. Start by sliding the patio door open and then removing the current lock from the interior side of the door. Examine the lock you have to determine the type of lock you'll require.
Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws that hold the strike plate. This is the part of the lock that is mounted on the edge of the door's frame. Adjust it horizontally or in an upward direction so that it is aligned with the holes for the latch. After you've adjusted the latch plate, tighten the screws and fix it with screws.
After all the components are repositioned or modified, assemble and secure the patio door according to the instructions of the manufacturer. Once you're finished, test the latch. Check to see if it fits correctly and is secured when the door is shut. If it does, your patio door lock has been installed correctly and is ready to provide the security and privacy you've come to expect from.
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. If these components are not aligned it's like trying to insert a key in the wrong hole for a key and it doesn't work. You can solve a problem which seemed impossible by following these easy steps. So, give yourself an ovation for tackling this challenge and regaining your patio door's lock position! We'll bet you won't have any trouble opening or closing the door from now on. Good luck! We're here to assist in case you require any assistance or have any questions.