The Expert Guide To Repair Patio Door Lock
How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is a crucial element of home security. It can be a hassle if your door is difficult to lock.
In a lot of cases, a stubborn lock is due to misalignment or simple wear and tear. It is possible to restore the lock's function by adjusting it or lubricating it. If these methods of troubleshooting aren't working, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open or close a door lock. Regular cleaning and lubrication could help prevent your security device becoming stiff or stuck. This will save you money on repair costs and will extend the lifespan of your door.
The first step in the process is to clean your lock the cylinder. To do this, you'll need spray cans of penetrating oil such as WD-40. Spray a small amount into the keyhole, then work the key through and out to spread the oil. Avoid using household oils or other solvents that could damage your locks. Also, make sure to spray a bit on the key itself as well.
After cleaning your lock cylinder, it's time to grease. You can use a silicone spray or dry lubricant like graphite powder. Graphite powder lasts for a long time and doesn't swell up like liquid lubricants do, which is why it's a great choice to lubricate locks that are sticky. Silicone sprays are able to be able to withstand temperatures that are below freezing and are impervious to water. However, they may require several coats to be effective.
You can also use a de-icer spray specifically specially designed for cold weather. It will remove the frost and ice from the mechanism of your lock. A few coats of this will allow your lock to unlock and then re-lock more easily.
How often you should lubricate your locks will rely on environmental factors. The location of your door will affect its performance. A coastal location can expose the door to salty air, which can cause corrosion. The general rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks at least twice a year or more often if you live in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can save money on repairs, and ensure that they continue to function properly for many years.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't operating properly, it could be that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of a faulty 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 or adjust the lock mechanism, or replace the lock cylinder.
Begin by inspecting the exterior and interior of the lock for indications of damage or misalignment. Patio door locks may expand or contract depending on the weather and could shift over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to be misaligned and cause problems when closing or opening the door.
Then, look over the lock cylinder for obstructions in the keyway hole. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder can be difficult to open and may eventually cause damage to the lock pins, cam or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you may be able to dislodge any obstructions with the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the problem persists you may need to take out the cylinder to find the source.
If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the body of the lock, you can loosen it by uncrewing the screw that is flat inside the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw lets you rotate the cylinder, and may even help restore the alignment.
Look over the cylinder for a tiny tab that can move up and down with the key, generally towards the very end. This small clip, also called a "release Tab" will stop the cylinder from sliding into the lock body all the way. The tab can be removed by using a standard key. This will allow the cylinder to be removed and then it can be inserted.
If your lock cylinder is stuck, you might be able to restore the proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt engages with the strike plate and the knob or handle can be pushed in and pulled out. Once you have restored the proper alignment, reassemble the lock and test it for performance. If your patio door lock remains difficult to use, it's a sign that another component such as the latch spring or latch is worn or damaged and will require replacement.
Tighten the Screws
Locks for patio doors are susceptible to damage from regular usage, extreme temperatures, dirt and dust. If not properly maintained the delicate parts could wear down and cause your door to not lock properly. Thankfully, most lock problems can be easily fixed by following a few easy maintenance steps.
It is recommended to first clean the lock mechanism. Use a dampened cloth to clean any dirt or dust that might be present. Then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning some silicone-based lubricant will help keep the moving parts functioning efficiently and smoothly. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, however, as these can attract dust and debris that can lead to further problems.
If your patio door comes with a security footlock, make sure that the footlock is aligned properly with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will only require adjusting the screws that secure the foot lock to the patio door frame. To adjust the footlock, loosen the screw with the help of a Robertson screwdriver and gently pry it upwards or downwards. After the adjustment is completed then tighten the screw.
When it comes time to repair the handle on a patio door the most frequent issue is misalignment between the strike plate and the latch. This could be due to everyday wear and tear or the latch may be positioned above or below where it should be.
Start by removing the old handle, then find the screws or bolts that hold it in place. Be sure to keep track of these since you will need them later when installing the new handle. Next, remove the old spindle and then slide the new spindle into place on the side of the door, ensuring that it is in alignment with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Reinstall the interior and external handles after the spindle has been installed. Make sure that they are aligned properly with the bolts or screws holding them in place.
After you've made any needed adjustments to your patio door, be sure to test it by locking and closing the door. If everything is in alignment, the door should open and close without any additional force. If you're having difficulty, you might need to reposition 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 still don't work, it may be time to replace the latch. Installing a new lock is a moderately easy home improvement task that many homeowners can complete by themselves. Begin by sliding the patio doors completely out and removing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed into both the door and the jamb so that you can determine the kind of lock you'll need purchase.
Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws securing the strike plate (the part of the lock that's set 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. Once you've repositioned the strike plate, secure it in place and tighten the screws.
When all the components of your patio door are relocated or replaced, reassemble and secure them according to the instructions given by the manufacturer. When you're done, check the latch to ensure that it fits and catches the latch's hasp when your door is closed. If it does, then your patio door lock is installed correctly and is able to provide the security and privacy you've come to expect from.
Like patio door lock repairs near me of your home should be aligned correctly to function effectively. Over time, temperatures cold, dirt and debris could cause the hinges and door frame to shift. When these elements are misaligned it's similar to trying to fit a key in the wrong hole for a key it won't work. You can fix the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these easy steps. So go ahead and give yourself an ovation for tackling this project and regaining your patio door's lock position! We're sure you won't have any issues opening or closing the door from now on out. Good luck! We're here to help if you have any concerns or questions.