How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A safe patio door is a vital element of home security. If your door is difficult to lock, it could be frustrating.

A stubborn lock can be caused by misalignment or even simple wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or changing its position may help restore its function. 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 doors. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help to prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stuck. This will save you money on repair costs and will extend the longevity of your door.

The first step in the process is to clean your lock's cylinder. To do this, use a spray bottle of penetrating oil such as WD-40. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole and then rotate the key to spread the oil. Avoid using household solvents or other oils that can damage your locks, and make sure to spray a little on the key itself.

When your lock's cylinder is clean it's time to lubricate. You can use an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. Graphite powder is long-lasting and doesn't attract dust as liquid lubricants do, so it's a great option to lubricate locks that are sticky. Silicone sprays can withstand freezing temperatures and are impervious to water. However, they may need multiple coats in order to be effective.

You can also use a de-icer spray specially designed for colder weather and will loosen ice and frost from the lock mechanism. A few sprays of this will aid your lock to unlock and then lock again easily.

The climate will determine how often you should lubricate locks. A coastal location exposes your door to salty air, which can cause corrosion. Temperature fluctuations can also affect the performance of your lock. The general rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks every two years, or more frequently if you reside in an area that experiences extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can save the cost of repairs and ensure that it continues to function in a good way for many years.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock isn't functioning properly, it could mean that one or more parts are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repair patio door Lock of a damaged lock on your patio door repairs door can help prevent further damage and guarantee the security of your doors. To fix a locked or non-locked patio door, you can tighten loose screws, adjust the lock mechanism or replace the lock cylinder.

Begin by inspecting the exterior and inside of the lock to find signs of damage or misalignment. Often, patio door locks expand and contract in temperatures that are cold or hot and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement may cause the locking mechanism to misalign and cause issues when closing or opening the door.

Examine the keyway hole on the lock cylinder. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder may be difficult to open and could eventually cause damage to the pins of the lock, cams or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you might be able to dislodge any obstructions with a pair of tweezers or a picklock. If the issue continues then you'll need to remove the cylinder and disassemble it to find the source of the obstruction.

If the lock cylinder has not been secured to the body of the lock, it can be loosen by unscrewing the screw on the faceplate of cylinder. This screw lets you to rotate the cylinder and it could also help restore alignment.

Look for an elongated tab that moves along with the key. It is usually at the end. This tiny clip, referred to as a "release tab" is what keeps the cylinder from sliding glass patio door repair into the body of the lock. A standard key will slide this tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and then reinserted.

If your lock cylinder is stuck, you might be able restore proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate and the handle or knob can be pushed in and out. Reassemble the lock once you have restored proper alignment. Check it out for its functionality. If your patio door lock still isn't functioning properly It is likely that another component like the latch spring or latch must be replaced.

Tighten the Screws

Over time, regular use, hot and cold weather dust, dirt, and can wear down patio door locks. These delicate parts can be damaged if they are not properly maintained, leading to your door to not lock properly. Most lock problems are easily fixed with a few simple steps.

The first thing you need to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a dampened cloth to get rid of any dust or dirt that might be found. Then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant will help keep the moving parts operating smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases since they could attract dust and debris and cause additional problems.

Next, if your patio door has a security foot lock be sure that the foot lock is properly aligned with the strike plate. Most of the time, this will only require you to adjust the screws that attach your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Loosen the screw using the Robertson screwdriver and gently move it up or down to adjust the foot lock as needed. After the adjustment is completed you can tighten the screw.

When it comes time to repair the handle of a patio door, the most common problem is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This can be caused by wear and tear, or the latch may be positioned above or below where it is supposed to be.

Begin by removing the handle, and then locate the screws or bolts that hold it in place. Make sure to keep track of these since you will need them later when installing the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle, and then slide the new spindle into the door on the inside of the door, ensuring that it is aligned with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Once the new spindle is in place put back the interior and exterior handles to ensure that they are in alignment with the bolts or screws which hold them in place.

Once you've made any necessary adjustments to your patio doors repair door, make 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 still have problems it may be necessary to adjust the position of your latch or strike plate or replace the lock cylinder.

Replace the latch

If your patio door locks are still not working, it could be time to replace the lock. Most homeowners can change a lock themselves. Start by sliding the patio door open and unscrewing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed to the door and the jamb to discern the type of lock you'll need to purchase.

Before installing the new latch take off the screws that secure the strike plate (the part of the lock that's positioned 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. After you've adjusted the strike plate, secure it in place and tighten the screws.

When all the components of your patio door have been relocated or replaced, reassemble and secure them according to the instructions given by the manufacturer. Once you're finished testing the latch. Make sure it fits correctly and is secured when the door is shut. If it does the lock will be able to latch onto the door. If it does, your patio door repairs door lock is working exactly as it should, and is will provide you with the security and privacy you've come expect from your doors.

Like other areas of your home, your patio door lock repair near me doors need to be properly aligned for them to function efficiently. Over time, temperatures and cold weather, dirt and debris, and other factors can cause hinges, door frame and the locking mechanism to shift. When these elements are misaligned it's similar to trying to insert a key in the wrong hole for a key it won't work. By following these easy steps, you will be able to fix a problem that might have been thought to be impossible to fix. So go ahead and give yourself an award for tackling this task and regaining your patio door's locked position! We'll bet you won't have any more trouble opening or closing the door from here on. Have fun! We're here if you have any questions or concerns.