How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A secure patio door is essential to home security. It can be a hassle if yours is difficult to lock.

In most cases, a stubborn lock is the result of misalignment or simple wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or changing its position can aid in restoring its functionality. If these solutions 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 doors. Regular cleaning and lubrication routine can stop your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving your money on Repair patio door lock costs and allowing your door to reach its full lifespan.

To begin, you will have to clean the lock the cylinder. To do this, use a spray can of penetrating oil, like WD-40. Spray a small amount into the keyhole, then work the key into and out to distribute the oil. Avoid using household solvents or other oils which could harm your locks, and make sure to spray a little on the key itself.

After cleaning your lock cylinder it is time to lubricate. You can use an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. Graphite powder has a long life and doesn't attract dust like liquid lubricants, so 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 might need multiple coats in order to be efficient.

You can also apply de-icer spray specifically designed for cold weather. It will melt 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 to repair patio door lock often you should lubricate your locks will rely on environmental factors. The location of your door will impact its performance. A location near the coast could expose it to salty air which can cause corrosion. The most common rule of thumb is to oil your locks at least twice a year or more often when you live in a region that has extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door repair service near me door continues to perform as it should for years to come.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock does not perform as it should it could be because one or more of its components may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair patio doors of a damaged patio door repairs door lock will prevent further damage and ensure that your doors are secure. To fix a locked or non-locked patio door, tighten loose screws and adjust the mechanism of the lock, or replace the lock cylinder.

Start by examining the exterior and inside of the lock for indications of damage or misalignment. The patio door locks can expand or contract in response to the weather, and could shift over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to be misaligned and cause issues when closing or opening the door.

Next, examine the lock cylinder to find any obstructions in the keyway hole. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder might be difficult to open, and can cause damage to the latch springs, cam, or lock pins. If the cylinder is difficult to insert, you might be able to remove any obstructions using the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the issue continues, you may need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to find the source of the obstruction.

If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed into the lock body then you can loosen it by removing the screw that is flat inside the cylinder's faceplate. This screw will let you rotate the cylinder, and may even help restore alignment.

Examine the cylinder for a small tab that can move upwards and downwards with the key, typically towards the very end. This small clip, also known as a "release Tab" will stop the cylinder from sliding into the lock body all the way. A standard key can move the tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and 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 may then be pushed and pulled back. Reassemble the lock after you have restored proper alignment. Test it to see if it works. If your patio door lock is still difficult to use, it's a sign that a different component, such as the latch spring or latch is damaged or worn out and will need to be replaced.

Make sure you tighten the Screws

The locks on patio doors can be damaged by regular use, extremes of temperature dust and dirt. If not properly maintained the delicate parts could get worn out and cause your door to not lock properly. Most lock issues can be fixed with a few simple steps.

The first thing you have to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to clean any dirt or dust that might be found. Then, dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning some silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts operating smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases as they can attract dust and debris which could cause more problems.

If your patio door is fitted with a security footlock, ensure that the footlock is properly aligned with the strike plate. Most of the time, this will require you to adjust the screws that secure your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Unlock the screw with a Robertson screwdriver, and gently pry upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock as required. Once the adjustment has been completed you can tighten the screw.

The most common problem when it comes to repairing patio door handles is misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This could be due to normal wear and tear, or it could simply be that the latch is placed higher or lower than it should be.

Begin by removing the old handle, and then locate the bolts or screws which hold it in 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 place the new one in place on the inside of the door. Make sure it is in alignment with the holes in both the exterior and interior handle. Reinstall the exterior and interior handles once the spindle has been installed. Make sure that they are aligned properly with the screws or bolts holding them in place.

After you've made the necessary adjustments to your patio door, make sure to test it by locking and closing the door. If the door is properly aligned, it should be able to open and shut without needing any additional force. If you're still having trouble then you may need to adjust the strike plate or latch or the lock cylinder may be damaged and need to be replaced.

Replace the Latch

If your patio door locks are still not working, it might be time to replace the lock. Most homeowners can change a lock themselves. Begin by sliding the patio doors all the way out and then removing your existing lock on the interior of the door. Review the lock to determine the type of lock that you'll require.

Before installing the new latch take off the screws that secure the strike plate (the part of the lock that's set on the outside of the door frame) and adjust it vertically or horizontally to align it with the hole in the jamb in the door. Once you have repositioned the latch plate you can tighten the screws, then screw it into place.

After all components are repositioned or modified, assemble and secure the patio door in accordance with the instructions given by the manufacturer. Once you're finished testing the latch. Make sure it is fitted correctly and is secured when the door is shut. If it does, then your patio door lock has been installed correctly and is now ready to provide the security and privacy that you've come to expect from.

Patio doors, like other components of your home must be properly aligned to function efficiently. Over time, temperatures and cold weather, dirt and debris, and other elements can cause the hinges, door frame and locking mechanism to shift slightly. The wrongly aligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are similar to trying to insert a key in the wrong keyhole. It doesn't work. By following these simple steps, you can fix the issue that may have appeared to be unfixable. Give yourself a pat on your back for tackling the task and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We bet that you'll have no issues opening or closing your patio door again. Best of luck! We're here to help if you have any questions or concerns.