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How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is crucial for home security. If it is difficult to lock, it can be a hassle.
A stubborn lock can be caused by misalignment or even wear and wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or adjusting its position may help restore its function. If these methods of troubleshooting don't work, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock can become hard to open and close due to dust, dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication routine can keep your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, saving you money on repair bills and allowing your door to enjoy its maximum lifespan.
The first step in the process is to clean your lock the cylinder. To do this, use a spray can of penetrating oil, like WD-40. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole, and then turn the key to distribute the oil. Do not use solvents like household oil or other, as they can 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 dry lubricant such as graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite powder lasts for a long time and doesn't attract dust like liquid lubricants do, so it's an excellent choice for lubricating locks that stick. Silicone sprays can 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.
patio door repairs near me can also apply a de-icer spray, which is specifically made for cold weather and can remove frost and ice from the lock mechanism. A few sprays of this will aid your lock unlock and then lock more easily.
How often you should lubricate your locks will depend on the environmental conditions. The location of your door can affect its performance. A location near the coast could expose it to salty air which could cause corrosion. The most common rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks every two years or more often if you reside in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure that your patio door continues to perform as it should for years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock doesn't work properly it could be because one or more of its parts could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of a faulty lock on your patio door could prevent further damage and ensure the security of your doors. You can repair the patio door that is locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, altering the lock mechanism, or replacing the lock cylinder.
Begin by inspecting patio door repair and inside of the lock for indications of damage or misalignment. Most often, patio door locks expand and contract with warm or cold weather, and may shift slightly over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to stop aligning properly and cause problems when opening or closing 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 could eventually cause damage to the pins, cams or latch springs. If the cylinder does not fit easily, you can remove any obstructions using a pair tweezers and a picklock. If the problem persists then you'll need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to locate the root of the problem.
If the lock cylinder has not been screwed onto the lock body it can be removed by unscrewing the screw on the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw lets you rotate the cylinder, and may even help restore the proper alignment.
Examine the cylinder for a small tab that can move up and down using the key, generally towards the end. This small clip, also called a "release Tab" is what stops the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. A standard key can move the tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and put back in.
If your lock cylinder is stuck, you may be able to restore proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt connects with the strike plate and the handle or knob can be pushed in and out. Once you have restored the proper alignment, you can reassemble the lock and test its functioning. If your patio door lock remains difficult to use, it's a sign that a component, like the latch spring or latch is damaged or worn and may require replacement.
Make sure you tighten the Screws
Over time, regular use temperatures, cold and hot weather, dirt, and dust can wear down patio door locks. These delicate components can be damaged if not properly maintained, causing your door to not lock properly. Fortunately, the majority of lock issues are easily fixable with a few simple maintenance steps.
The first thing you need to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt that may be present. Then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving components functioning smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases since they could draw dust and dirt, which can cause further problems.
Next, if your patio door has a security foot lock, make sure the lock is aligned with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will only require adjustment of the screws that hold the 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 if needed. After the adjustment is completed you can tighten the screw.
When it comes to repairing the handle on a patio door, the most common problem involves misalignment between the strike plate and the latch. This can be caused by wear and tear, or the latch could be placed higher or below what it is supposed to be.
Then, take off the old handle and locate the screws or bolts holding it in place. Keep track of the bolts or screws, since you'll need them to attach the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle, then slide the new one into the door on the inside of the door, ensuring that it is aligned with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Once the new spindle has been installed, reinstall the handles on the exterior and interior, making sure that they are in alignment with the bolts or screws that secure them.
Close and lock the patio door after you have made any adjustments that are required. If the door is properly aligned, it should open and close smoothly without the need for any additional force. If you are still having issues, you may need to reposition your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks still not working, it may be time to replace the lock. The majority of homeowners can replace a lock themselves. Start by sliding the patio door completely open and removing the existing lock from the interior side of the door. Review the lock to determine the type of lock that you'll need.
Before you install the new latch remove the screws that hold the strike plate (the part of the lock that's positioned on the outside edge of the door frame) and then adjust it horizontally or vertically to align it with the hole in the door jamb. Once you have repositioned the latch plate, tighten the screws and screw it into place.
After all components are repositioned or modified after which you can assemble and secure your patio door according to the instructions of the manufacturer. When you're done, check 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 functioning just as it should and is able to provide the security and privacy you've come to expect from your doors.
Like other parts of your house, need to be aligned correctly to function effectively. Over time, temperatures, cold, dirt, and debris can cause hinges and the frame of the door to shift. If these components are not aligned it's like trying to insert a key in the wrong hole for a key it won't work. By following these simple steps, you can solve an issue that appeared to be unfixable. So, give yourself an award for tackling this project and regaining the door that was locked! We'll bet you won't have any trouble opening or closing the door from here to the end. Have fun! We're here to assist in case you require any assistance or have any questions.
