How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is vital to home security. It can be difficult when your door is difficult to lock.
A stubborn lock can be caused by misalignment, or simply wear and wear and tear. It may be possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these solutions don't work, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock may become difficult to open and close over time due to dust, dirt and grime. A regular cleaning and lubrication routine will keep your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving your money on repair costs and helping your door reach its full lifespan.
The first step in the process is to clean your lock cylinder. To do this, you'll need a spray can of penetrating oil, such as WD-40. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole, and then turn the key to distribute the oil. Avoid using household oil or other solvents that can harm your locks. Spray a bit on the key.
After cleaning your lock cylinder it's time to grease. You can use an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. Graphite is a long-lasting lubricant that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid fluids. It's a great option to lubricate locks. 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 use de-icer spray that is specially designed for cold weather. It will break up frost and ice off the mechanism of your lock. A few sprays of this will aid your lock unlock and then re-lock more easily.
The climate will determine how often you should lubricate locks. A coastal location exposes your door to salty air and lead to corrosion. Temperature fluctuations can also influence the performance of your lock. It is recommended to ensure that your locks are lubricated at least twice a year or more often if your area has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door will function properly for the years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't functioning properly, it could be that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair of a damaged patio door lock can prevent any further damage and ensure your doors are safe. To repair a locked or unlocked patio door, you can tighten loose screws or adjust the lock mechanism, or replace the lock cylinder.
Start by checking the exterior and the inside of the lock to determine whether there are any indications of damage or misalignment. Often, patio door locks expand and contract during hot or cold weather and may shift slightly over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanisms to stop aligning correctly and lead to problems with opening or closing the patio door.
Then, look over the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder could be difficult to open and can cause damage to the latch springs, cam, or the lock pins. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you might be able to remove any obstruction using the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the issue continues it may be necessary to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to find the cause of the obstruction.
If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed to the lock body it can be removed by removing the screw on the cylinder faceplate. By loosening this screw, it will allow you to move the cylinder around and could help restore proper alignment.
Look over the cylinder for a little tab that can move upwards and downwards with the key, generally towards the very end. This little clip, called a "release tab", keeps the cylinder from sliding into the body of the lock. The tab can be moved back with a standard key to allow the cylinder to be taken out and then returned.
If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you may be able to restore the proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate and the knob or handle can be pushed into and out. Once you have restored the proper alignment, reassemble the lock and test it for 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 require replacement.
Make sure you tighten the Screws
Locks for patio doors are susceptible to damage from regular use, extreme temperatures, dirt and dust. These delicate parts may wear out if not maintained properly, causing your door to stop locking properly. Most lock issues can be fixed with a few simple steps.
It is recommended to first clean the lock mechanism. Use a dampened cloth to clean any dust or dirt that might be found. Then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning some silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts running efficiently and smoothly. Avoid lubricants with oil bases, however they can draw dust and dirt which could cause problems.
Then, if your patio door is equipped with a foot lock that is secure, make sure the foot lock is aligned with the strike plate. In most cases this will only require you to adjust the screws that secure your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Loosen the screw using the Robertson screwdriver, and gently pry up or down to adjust the foot lock if needed. Once the adjustment is complete then tighten the screw.
When it comes to repairing the handle of a patio door, the most common problem is misalignment between the latch and strike plate. This could be caused by normal wear and tear or the latch could be placed above or below where it should be.
Then, take off the old handle and locate the bolts or screws that hold it in the place. Keep on track of the screws or bolts, since you'll need them to attach the new handle. Remove the old spindle and place the new one on the inside of the door. Make sure that it is aligned properly with the holes in both the exterior and interior handle. Once the new spindle is installed put back the handles on the exterior and interior and ensure that they are aligned with the bolts or screws that secure them.
After balcony door repair 've made any needed adjustments to your patio door, be sure to test it by closing and locking the door. If the door is correctly aligned, it should be able to open and close smoothly without the need for any additional force. If you still have problems, you may need to move your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks are not working, it could be time to replace the lock. The replacement of a lock is a relatively simple home improvement project that most homeowners can complete by themselves. Begin by sliding the patio doors completely out and unscrewing your existing lock on the inside of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed into both the door and the jamb so that you can discern the type of lock you'll have to purchase.
Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws that hold the strike plate. This is the portion of the lock mounted on the outside of the frame of the door. Adjust it horizontally or in a vertical direction so that it is aligned with the latch hole. After you've repositioned your strike plate, secure it in position and tighten the screws.
After all components have been moved or adjusted after which you can assemble and secure your patio door in accordance with the instructions given by the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch to ensure that it is in place and fits the latch hasp when the door is closed. If it does, then your patio door lock has been installed correctly and is able to provide the security and privacy that you've come to anticipate from.
Like other areas of your home your patio doors also need to be aligned properly for them to work efficiently. Over time, heat, cold, dirt, and debris can cause the hinges and the frame of the door to shift. 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. If you follow these steps, you can fix a problem that might have been thought to be impossible to fix. Do yourself a big pat on your back for tackling the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're betting you won't experience any problems opening or closing your patio door again. Good luck! We're here if you have any questions or concerns.