10 Things You Learned In Kindergarden Which Will Aid You In Obtaining Repair Patio Door Lock
How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is crucial to home security. It can be frustrating when yours is difficult to lock.
A lock that is not working can be the result of misalignment or even simple wear and tear. Lubricating the lock, or adjusting its position may help to restore its function. If these solutions don't work you can replace both the mortise as well as the handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock may become difficult to open and close due to dust, dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication schedule can prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, saving your money on repair costs and allowing your door to enjoy its maximum lifespan.
To begin, you will have to clean the lock's the cylinder. To do this, use a spray can of penetrating oil such as WD-40. Spray a small amount of it into the keyhole and work the key through and out to spread the oil. Do not use solvents like household oil or other which could damage your locks. Spray a little on the key.
When your lock's cylinder is clean it's time to lubricate. You can apply an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant like graphite powder. Graphite powder has a long life and doesn't swell up like liquid lubricants, so it's an excellent choice for lubricating locks that stick. Silicone sprays are water-resistant and can withstand both humid and freezing temperatures, however it might require multiple coats to work effectively.
You can also use de-icer spray specifically made for cold weather. It will remove ice and frost on the mechanism of your lock. A few coats of this will allow your lock to unlock and then lock again easily.
The climate will determine how often you should lubricate locks. A location near the coast exposes your door to salty air, which can cause corrosion, and temperature changes can affect the performance of your lock. The standard rule of thumb is to oil your locks every two years and more frequently if you reside in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure that your patio door will function properly for the years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't operating correctly, it could indicate that one or more parts are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repair of a broken lock on your patio door can prevent further damage and ensure the security of your doors. To fix a locked or non-locked patio door, tighten loose screws, adjust the lock mechanism, or replace the lock cylinder.
Begin by looking at the exterior and the interior of the lock to determine whether there are signs of damage or misalignment. The patio door locks can expand or contract with the weather, and they could shift over time. This slight movement may cause the locking mechanism to misalign and cause issues when opening or closing the door.
Then, check the lock cylinder to find any obstructions in the keyway hole. An obstructed or corroded lock cylinder may be difficult to open and can eventually cause damage to the pins, cams or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't fitting easily, you can get rid of any obstructions using a pair tweezers and a picklock. If the issue continues, you may need to take out the cylinder to find the source.
If the lock cylinder is not been secured to the lock body it can be removed by unscrewing the flat screw on the faceplate of cylinder. This screw will allow you rotate the cylinder, and it could also help restore the alignment.
Examine the cylinder for a little tab that moves upwards and downwards with the key, typically towards the end. This small clip, also called a "release Tab" is what stops the cylinder from sliding into the lock body all the way. This tab can be moved back using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be taken out and then reinserted.
If the lock cylinder is stuck and is not aligned, you can fix it by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt contacts the strike plate. The knob or handle can then be pushed, and withdrawn. Reassemble the lock once you have restored proper alignment. Check it out for its functionality. If your patio door lock is still difficult to use, it's likely that a different component, such as the latch or latch spring is worn or damaged and will need to be replaced.
Make sure you tighten the Screws
Locks for patio doors can be damaged by regular usage, extreme temperatures, dirt and dust. If not properly maintained these delicate components can wear down and cause your door to not lock properly. Fortunately, most 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 clean any dirt or dust that may be present and then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts operating smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases since they could attract dust and other debris which could cause more issues.
If your patio door comes with an electronic footlock for security, make sure that the footlock is aligned correctly with the strike plate. Most of the time, 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, loosen the screw with the help of a Robertson screwdriver, and then gently push it upwards or downwards. Once the adjustment is done, tighten the screw securely.
When it comes time to repair the handle on a patio door, the most common problem involves misalignment between the latch and strike plate. This could be due to normal wear and tear or it could be that the latch is set higher or lower than it ought to be.
Then, take off the handle from the old one and locate the screws or bolts holding it in the first place. Keep in mind the screws or bolts, as you will require them to attach the new handle. Then, remove the spindle that was in use and slide the new one into place on the interior of the door. Make sure that it is properly aligned with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Once the new spindle is in place, reinstall the handles on the exterior and interior and ensure that they are aligned with the screws or bolts that secure them.
Close and lock the patio door after you have made any adjustments that are required. If everything is in alignment, the door will be able to open and close smoothly, without any additional force. If you're still having problems you may have to reposition your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace patio door replacement
If your patio door locks are not working, it may be time to replace the lock. Replacing a lock is a relatively simple home improvement task that many homeowners can tackle themselves. Begin by sliding the patio doors completely out and unscrewing your existing lock from the inside of the door. Review the lock to determine the type of lock you'll need.
Before you install the new latch, loosen the screws securing the strike plate (the part of the lock that's positioned on the outside edge of the door frame) and then adjust it vertically or horizontally to align it with the latch hole in the jamb in the door. After you've repositioned your strike plate, secure it in place and tighten the screws.
When all the components of your patio door are moved or replaced, you can reassemble them and secure them according to the instructions given by the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch to ensure that it fits and is able to catch the latch hasp when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is installed correctly and is ready to provide the security and privacy that you've come to expect from.
Like other parts of your home the patio doors have to be aligned properly for them to work efficiently. Over time, heat or cold, dirt and debris can cause frames and hinges to shift. When these elements are misaligned, it's like trying to fit keys into the wrong hole for a key: It just doesn't work. It is possible to fix the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these easy steps. Give yourself a pat on your back for tackling the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're sure you'll have no issues opening or closing your patio door once more. Have fun! We're here if you have any questions or concerns.