How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is essential for home security. It can be frustrating when yours is difficult to lock.
In many instances, a lock that is difficult to open is caused by an incorrect alignment or simply wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or changing its position could help restore its function. If these troubleshooting techniques aren't working, you can replace both the mortise as well as the handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dust, dirt and grime can make it difficult to open or close a door lock. A regular cleaning and lubrication schedule can prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, saving you money on repairs and allowing your door to reach its full potential.
The first step in the process is to clean your lock's cylinder. To do this, you'll need a spray can of penetrating oil, such as WD-40. Spray a small amount into the keyhole and work the key into and out to distribute the oil. Avoid using household oils or other solvents which could harm your locks, and make sure you spray some on the key itself.
When your lock's cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. You can use a silicone spray or dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. Graphite is a durable lubricant that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid fluids. It's a great option for locking lubrication. Silicone sprays are able to endure temperatures of minus 0 degrees and are impervious to water. However, they might need multiple coats in order to be effective.
You can also use de-icer spray specifically specially designed for cold weather. It will melt frost and ice off the mechanism of your lock. A few sprays of this will allow your lock unlock and then re-lock more easily.
How often you have to lubricate your locks will rely on the environment. A coastal location will expose your door to salty air and cause corrosion, and temperature fluctuations can also influence how well your lock works. The standard rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks at least twice a year, or more frequently if you reside in an area with extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks will save costs on 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 it could be because one or more of its components could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and timely repairs of a faulty lock on your patio door could prevent further damage and ensure the security of your doors. To fix a locked or non-locked patio door, tighten loose screws and adjust the lock mechanism, or replace the lock cylinder.
Begin by looking at the exterior and interior of the lock to see if there are any signs of damage or misalignment. Often, patio door locks expand and contract during temperatures that are cold or hot and may shift slightly over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to be misaligned and cause problems when closing or opening the door.
Next, examine the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the 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 with a pair of tweezers, or a picklock. If the problem persists you may have to remove the cylinder in order to locate the cause.
If the lock cylinder isn't secured to the body of the lock then you can loosen it by unscrewing a flat screw inside the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw lets you rotate the cylinder, and may even help restore the proper alignment.
Check the cylinder for a small tab that moves up and down with the key, generally towards the very end. This little clip, also known as a "release tab" prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body. The tab can be removed using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be taken out and then returned.
If your lock cylinder is stuck, you might be able to restore proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate, and the knob or handle can be pushed in and pulled out. Reassemble the lock after you have restored the proper alignment. Test it to see if it works. If your patio door lock still isn't functioning properly it's likely that an additional component such as the latch spring or latch must be replaced.
Make sure you tighten the Screws
Over time, regular use, hot and cold weather, dirt, and dust can cause damage to patio door locks. If not properly maintained the delicate parts could get worn out and cause your door to fail to lock properly. Most lock problems are easily fixed with a few simple steps.
Clean the lock mechanism. Make patio door lock repair near me of a damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust that might be found. Then, dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts running smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases,, as these can draw dust and dirt which could cause issues.
Then, if your patio door has an electronic foot lock for security be sure that the foot lock is aligned with the strike plate. In most cases, this will require adjustment of the screws that hold the foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Remove the screw using the Robertson screwdriver, and then gently push it upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock as required. Once the adjustment has been completed then tighten the screw.
The most common problem when it comes to fixing patio door handles is misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This can be caused by wear and tear, or the latch may be positioned higher or below what it is supposed to be.
Start by removing the handle, then identify the screws or bolts which hold it in place. Keep on track of the screws or bolts, as you will require them to install the new handle. Then, remove the old spindle and place the new one on the interior of the door. Make sure it is in alignment with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Once the new spindle is in place put back the interior and exterior handles, making sure that they are properly aligned with the screws or bolts which hold them in place.
Once you've made any necessary adjustments to your patio door, be sure to test it by closing and locking the door. If the door is correctly aligned, it should be able to open and shut without needing any additional force. If you are still having issues, you may need to move your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks still not working, it might be time to replace the lock. The replacement of a lock is a moderately easy home improvement project that most homeowners can do themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door all the way open and unscrewing the existing lock from the interior side of the door. Be sure to study the way in which the current lock is screwed into the door and jamb so that you can determine the type of lock you'll need to purchase.
Before you install the new latch remove the screws that hold the strike plate (the part of the lock that's set on the outside edge of the door frame) and adjust it vertically or horizontally to align it with the hole in the door jamb. After you've repositioned the latch plate then tighten the screws and screw it into place.
Once all the components of your patio door have been moved or replaced, you can reassemble them and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. After 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, your patio door lock is installed correctly and is ready to provide the security and privacy that you've come to anticipate from.
As with other parts of your home your patio doors also need to be properly aligned in order for they to function effectively. Over time, heat cold, dirt and debris can cause hinges and the frame of the door to shift. When these elements are misaligned, it's like trying to insert keys into the wrong keyhole and it doesn't work. By following these easy steps, you can fix the issue that may have appeared to be unfixable. Do yourself a big pat on your back for tackling the task and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're sure you won't experience any problems opening or closing your patio door once more. Best of luck! We are here to help if you need any assistance or have questions.