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How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is a crucial element of home security. When yours is difficult to lock, it can be a hassle.
A lock that is not working can be caused by misalignment, or even wear and tear. It is possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these solutions fail, you may need to replace both the mortise and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock can become difficult to open and close over time due to dirt, dust and grime. A regular cleaning and lubrication schedule can stop your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, thereby saving you money on repairs and allowing your door to enjoy its full potential.
The first step in the process is to clean your lock's cylinder. Use WD-40 or an equivalent penetrating spray complete this. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole, and then turn the key to distribute it. Avoid using solvents like household oil or other which could damage your locks. Spray a small amount on the key.
When your lock's cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. 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 an excellent choice for lubricating locks. Silicone sprays are able to withstand freezing temperatures and are impervious to water. However, they might require multiple coats to be effective.
You can also use a de-icer spray that is specially designed for cold weather. It will melt frost and ice off the lock mechanism. This will allow you to unlock your lock, and then lock it more easily.
How often you need to lubricate your locks will rely on the environmental conditions. The location of your door will impact its performance. A location near the coast could expose the door to salty air, which could cause corrosion. It is recommended to regularly lubricate your locks at least two times every year, or more frequently in areas with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can help save costs on repairs, and ensure that they continue to function in a good way for a long time.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't operating correctly, it could indicate that one or more parts are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair of a faulty patio door lock can prevent additional damage and ensure that your doors are secure. To fix a locked or unlocked patio door, tighten loose screws and adjust the lock mechanism, or replace the lock cylinder.
Start by examining the exterior and interior of the lock to find signs of damage or misalignment. Often, patio door locks expand and contract during temperatures that are cold or hot and can shift slightly over time. This slight shift can cause the locking mechanisms to stop aligning properly and can 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, cams, or latch springs. If the cylinder is difficult to insert, you may be able to remove any obstruction using the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the issue continues, you may need to remove the cylinder and disassemble it in order to identify the source of the obstruction.
If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed to the lock body, it can be loosen by unscrewing the flat screw on the faceplate of cylinder. This screw lets you to rotate the cylinder and it could also help restore alignment.
Look for a small tab that is movable with the key. It's usually located close to the end. This tiny clip, also called a "release Tab" is what stops the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. A standard key will slide this tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and reinserted.
If the lock cylinder is stuck it is possible to restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt engages the strike plate. The knob or handle can then be pushed, and pulled back. Once you've restored the proper alignment, reassemble the lock and check its functioning. If your patio door lock isn't working it's likely that another component like the latch or latch spring needs to be replaced.
Lock the Screws
Over time, frequent use as well as cold and hot weather dust, dirt, and can wear down patio door locks. These delicate parts may be damaged if not properly maintained, causing your door to stop locking properly. Most lock problems are easily repaired with a few easy steps.
The first thing to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt that might be present. Then, dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning the components, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts functioning efficiently and smoothly. Avoid lubricants with oil bases as they can draw dust and dirt, which can cause further problems.
If your patio door has a security foot lock ensure that the lock is aligned with the strike plate. Most of the time, this will require you to adjust the screws that attach your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Unlock the screw with the Robertson screwdriver, and gently pry up or down to adjust the foot lock if needed. After the adjustment has been completed then tighten the screw.
When it comes time to repair the handle of a patio door the most frequent issue involves misalignment between the latch and strike plate. This can be due to everyday wear and tear, or the latch may be positioned lower or higher than it is supposed to be.
Then, take off the handle that was previously used and find the bolts or screws that are holding it in the first place. Keep in mind the bolts or screws, because you will need them to attach the new handle. Next, remove the old spindle, and then slide the new one into the door on the side of the door, ensuring that it is properly aligned with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Once the new spindle is in place then reinstall the interior and exterior handles and ensure that they are properly aligned with the bolts or screws that hold them in place.
Close and secure the patio door after you have made any adjustments that are required. If the door is correctly aligned, it should be able to open and close smoothly without the need for any additional force. If you're still having trouble then you may need to adjust the latch or strike plate or the lock cylinder could be damaged and need to be replaced.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks are still not working, it may be time to replace the lock. The majority of homeowners can replace a lock themselves. Begin by sliding the patio doors completely out and then removing your existing lock from the inside of the door. Review the lock to determine the type of lock you will need.
Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws securing the strike plate (the part of the lock that's set on the outside edge of the door frame) and then adjust it either horizontally or vertically to align it with the latch hole in the door jamb. After you've adjusted the latch plate you can tighten the screws, then fix it with screws.
When all the components of your patio door are relocated or replaced, reassemble and secure them according to the instructions given by the manufacturer. After Repair My Windows And Doors done, test the latch to ensure that it fits and catches the latch's hasp when your door is closed. If it does, then your patio door lock is installed correctly and is able to provide the security and privacy you have come to expect.
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, cold and hot weather dirt and debris and other factors can cause the hinges, door frame and locking mechanism to shift slightly. Misaligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are similar to trying to insert a key in the wrong keyhole. It doesn't work. If you follow these steps, you can fix an issue that been thought to be impossible to fix. So go ahead and give yourself an ovation for tackling this task and regaining your patio door's locked position! We're sure you won't experience any problems opening or closing your patio door once more. Good luck! We're here to assist if you need any assistance or have questions.
