How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is crucial to ensure your home's security. If it is difficult to lock, it could be a hassle.
In many instances, a locked that is not working is the result of an incorrect alignment or simply wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or changing its position may help to restore its function. If these methods of troubleshooting aren't working, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dust, dirt and grime can make it difficult to open and close a door lock. Regular cleaning and lubrication routine can keep your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving you money on repair bills and allowing your door to enjoy its maximum lifespan.
To begin, you will need to clean the lock's cylinder. To do this, you'll need a spray bottle of penetrating oil, like WD-40. Spray a small amount into the keyhole and work the key in and out to distribute the oil. Avoid using household oil or other solvents that can harm your locks. Spray a bit on the key.
Once your lock cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. You can use a silicone spray 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 an excellent choice to lubricate locks that are sticky. Silicone sprays can be able to withstand temperatures that are below freezing and are resistant to water. However, they may require multiple coats to be effective.
You can also apply de-icer spray specifically made for cold weather. It will melt the frost and ice from the mechanism of your lock. A few coats of this will aid your lock to unlock and then lock again easily.
The environment will determine how often you need to lubricate locks. A coastal location exposes your door to salty air, which can cause corrosion, and temperature variations can impact the performance of your lock. It is recommended that you lubricate locks at least once a year or more often when you live in an area with severe weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door continues to function as it should for many the years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock doesn't perform as it should there's a chance that one or more of its components may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repair of a damaged lock on your patio door will help prevent further damage and guarantee the security of your doors. You can repair doors that are locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, altering the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder.
Start by checking the exterior and the interior of the lock to see whether there are any indications of damage or misalignment. The patio door locks can expand or contract in response to the weather and might even shift with time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to become misaligned and cause issues when opening or closing the door.
Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. A corroded or blocked cylinder may be difficult to open and may eventually cause damage to the pins of the lock, cams or latch springs. If the cylinder doesn't fit easily, you can clear any obstructions with a pair of tweezers and a lock. If the issue persists, you might need to remove the cylinder in order to locate the root of the issue.
If the lock cylinder has not been screwed onto the lock body and is loose, it can be loosened by removing the screw on the faceplate of the cylinder. By loosening this screw, it will allow you to rotate the cylinder and may help to restore alignment.
Check the cylinder for a little tab that moves up and down with the key, generally towards the end. This small clip, sometimes known as a "release Tab" is what stops the cylinder from sliding into the lock body in the entire way. The tab can be moved back using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed, then reinserted.
If your lock cylinder is stuck, you can restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt engages the strike plate. The knob or handle may then be pushed and withdrawn. Reassemble the lock once you have restored alignment. Check it out for its functionality. If your patio door lock remains difficult to use, it's likely 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, dirt and dust. Unless properly cared for the delicate parts could get worn out and cause your door to fail to lock properly. Most lock problems are easily repaired with a few easy steps.
You should first clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to get rid of any dust or dirt that may be present and then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving components functioning smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases as they can draw dust and dirt and cause additional problems.
If your patio door is equipped with a security footlock, make sure that the footlock is properly aligned with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will only require changing the screws that attach the foot lock to the frame of your patio door. Loosen the screw using the Robertson screwdriver, and then gently pry upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock if needed. Once the adjustment is done, tighten the screw securely.
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 positioned higher or lower than it should be.
Start by removing the old handle, then identify the screws or bolts that secure it. Keep in mind the bolts or screws because you will need them to attach the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle, then slide the new spindle into the door on the inside of the door, ensuring that it is aligned with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Reinstall the exterior and interior handles once the spindle has been installed. Make sure that they're properly aligned with the screws or bolts that hold them in place.
Close and lock the patio door once you have made any necessary adjustments. If everything is in proper alignment, the door will open and close smoothly without any additional force. If you're still experiencing difficulty then you may need to reposition 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 still not working, it could be time to replace the lock. Most homeowners can replace a lock themselves. Start by sliding the patio door open and removing the existing lock from the interior side of the door. Study the existing lock to determine the type of lock that you'll require.
Before installing the new latch, loosen screws that hold the strike plate. This is the portion of the lock that is positioned on the edges of the frame of the door. Adjust it either horizontally or in an upward direction so that it is aligned with the latch hole. After you've repositioned the latch plate then tighten the screws and screw it into place.
After all the parts of your patio door are repositioned or replaced, reassemble and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. After you're done, test the latch to make sure that it fits and catches the latch's hasp when your door is closed. If it does the lock will be able to latch onto the door. If it does, your patio door lock is now functioning exactly as it should, and is will provide you with the security and privacy you've come to expect from your doors.
Like other areas of your home, your patio doors need to be aligned properly for they to function effectively. Over sliding door repair , 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 fit keys into the wrong keyhole: It just doesn't work. You can fix the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these simple steps. You should pat yourself on the back for taking on the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're sure you won't have any more trouble opening or closing the door from now to the end. Best of luck! We're here to assist should you require assistance or have questions.