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 a hassle.
A locked that isn't working properly could be caused by misalignment, or even wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or adjusting its position can aid in restoring its functionality. If these troubleshooting methods don't work, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock may become hard to open and close over time because of dust, dirt and grime. A regular cleaning and lubrication schedule can keep your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, thereby saving your money on repair costs and allowing your door to reach its full potential.
The first step in the process is to clean the lock the cylinder. To do this, you'll need a spray bottle of penetrating oil, like WD-40. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole, and then turn the key to distribute the oil. Avoid using solvents like household oil or other, as they can damage your locks. Spray a bit on the key.
After cleaning your lock cylinder, it's time to grease. You can apply a silicone spray or a dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. Graphite is a durable lubricant that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid lubricants. It's a great option to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand both moist and freezing temperatures, but may require several coats to be effective.
You can also use de-icer spray that is specially designed for cold weather. It will melt frost and ice off the lock mechanism. A few sprays of this will aid your lock to unlock and then lock more easily.
The climate will determine how often you need to lubricate locks. The location of your door will impact its performance. A location near the coast could expose it to salty air which could cause corrosion. The standard rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks at least twice a year or more often when you live in an area with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can help save the cost of repairs and ensure that they continue to work properly for many years.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock doesn't function properly, one or more of its components may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repair of a faulty lock on your patio door could help prevent further damage and guarantee the security of your doors. To fix a locked or unlocked patio door, tighten loose screws, adjust the lock mechanism, or replace the lock cylinder.
Start by checking the exterior and interior of the lock to determine whether there are any indications of damage or misalignment. Patio door locks may expand or contract depending on the weather, and they might even shift with time. This slight shift can cause the locking mechanism to not align properly and lead to problems with opening or closing the patio door.
Then, check the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder could be difficult to open and can cause damage to the cam, latch springs, or the lock pins. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you may be able to dislodge any obstructions with a pair of tweezers, or a picklock. If the issue continues, you may have to remove the cylinder in order to locate the root of the issue.
If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the body of the lock then you can loosen it by uncrewing a flat screw inside the cylinder's faceplate. This screw will allow you rotate the cylinder, and may even help restore alignment.
Look for the small tab that moves along with the key. It is usually near the end. This small clip, sometimes known as a "release Tab" will stop the cylinder from sliding into the lock body in the entire way. This tab can be moved back using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed and then returned.
If your lock cylinder is stuck, you might be able to restore the proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt engages with the strike plate and the handle or knob can be pushed into and pulled out. Reassemble the lock after you have restored the proper alignment. Check it out for its functionality. If your patio door lock is difficult to use, it's a sign that another component such as the latch or latch spring is worn or damaged and may require replacement.
Lock the Screws
Over time, the use of regular as well as cold and hot weather dust, dirt, and can cause damage to patio door locks. Unless properly cared for these delicate components can wear down and cause your door to not lock properly. Most lock issues can be fixed with a few simple steps.
upvc patio door repairs need to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to clean any dirt or dust that may be present and then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning the components, a small amount silicone-based lubricant will help keep the moving parts operating efficiently and smoothly. Avoid lubricants that contain oil bases, they could 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 most cases this will only require you to adjust the screws that hold your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Unlock the screw with a Robertson screwdriver, and then gently pry up or down to adjust the foot lock if needed. Once the adjustment is complete then tighten the screw.
When it comes to repairing the handle of a patio door, the most common problem is misalignment between the strike plate and latch. This can be caused by normal wear and tear or it could be due to the fact that the latch is placed higher or lower than it ought to be.
Then, take off the handle that was previously used and find the bolts or screws that are holding it in the place. Make sure to keep track of these as you will need them later when installing the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle and then slide the new one into the door on the side of the door, ensuring that it is in alignment with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Once the new spindle is installed put back the handles for both exterior and interior to ensure that they are in alignment with the bolts or screws that hold them in place.
Close and secure the patio door after you have made any necessary adjustments. If the door is properly aligned, it should open and shut smoothly without needing any additional force. If you're still having trouble, you might need to move the latch or strike plate, or the lock's cylinder might be damaged and need to be replaced.
Replace the Latch
If your patio door locks don't work, it may be time to replace the latch. The replacement of a lock is a moderately easy home improvement project that a majority of homeowners can do by themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door completely open and unscrewing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Carefully study how the existing lock is screwed to the door and the jamb to get a sense for what type of lock you'll need purchase.
Before installing the new latch remove the screws that hold the strike plate (the part of the lock that's positioned on the outside of the door frame) and then adjust it either horizontally or vertically to align it with the hole in the jamb of the door. After you've repositioned the latch plate, tighten the screws and fix it with screws.
After all components are repositioned or modified 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 is in place and fits the latch hasp when the door is closed. If it does the lock will be able to latch onto the door. If it does, your patio door lock is working just as it should and is can give you the security and privacy you've come to expect from your doors.
As with other parts of your home the patio doors have to be properly aligned in order for they to function effectively. Over time, cold and hot weather dirt and debris and other factors can cause the hinges, door frame, and locking mechanism to shift. Misaligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are like trying to put a key in the wrong keyhole. It doesn't work. You can solve a problem which seemed impossible by following these simple steps. So, give yourself a pat on the back for tackling this task and regaining your patio door's locked position! We're sure you won't have any trouble opening or closing the door from here to the end. Good luck! We're here for you if there are any questions or concerns.