How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is a vital element of home security. It can be a hassle if your door is difficult to lock.
A stubborn lock can be caused by misalignment, or even wear and wear and tear. It's possible to restore the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these solutions don't work you can replace both the mortise as well as the handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dust, dirt and grime can make it difficult to open and close the door lock. A regular cleaning and lubrication routine will prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving you money on repair bills and helping your door reach its full potential.
The first step in the process is to clean the lock cylinder. Use WD-40 or another penetrating spray to do this. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole and then rotate the key to distribute it. Avoid using household solvents or other oils that could damage your locks. Make sure you spray some on the key itself as well.
Once your lock cylinder is clean and lubricated, it's time to apply. You can use a dry lubricant such as graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite is a long-lasting lubricant that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid lubricants. It's an excellent choice to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays are water-resistant and can withstand both humid and freezing temperatures, however it might require multiple coats to work effectively.
patio door repairs london repairmywindowsanddoors can also use a de-icer spray specifically made for cold weather. It will melt ice and frost on the mechanism of your lock. A few sprays of this will help your lock unlock and then lock again easily.
How often you should lubricate your locks will rely on the environmental conditions. A coastal location exposes your door to salty air, which can cause corrosion, and temperature variations can affect how well your lock works. The most common rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks every two years or more often when you live in a region that has extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can help save money on repairs, and ensure that it will continue to work properly for a long time.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock does not work properly it could be because one or more of its components may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of a damaged lock on your patio door can help prevent further damage and guarantee the security of your doors. You can fix a patio door that is locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder.
Start by checking the exterior and the interior of the lock to determine if there are any signs of damage or misalignment. The majority of patio door locks expand and contract with hot or cold weather and may shift slightly over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to be misaligned and cause issues when closing or opening the door.
Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. An obstructed or corroded lock cylinder may be difficult to open and may eventually cause damage to the pins of the lock, cams or latch springs. If the cylinder does not fit easily, you can get rid of any obstructions using a pair tweezers and a picklock. If the problem persists you may have to remove the cylinder to determine the root of the issue.
If the lock cylinder isn't secured to the lock body you can loosen it by unscrewing a flat screw inside the cylinder's faceplate. Unscrewing this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and may help to restore alignment.
Look for an elongated tab that moves with the key. It's usually close to the end. This tiny clip, also known as a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body in the entire way. A standard key can slide this tab back to let the cylinder out and allow it to be removed and reinserted.
If your lock cylinder is stuck, you may be able restore proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt engages with the strike plate, and the handle or knob can be pulled in and pulled out. Reassemble the lock after you have restored the proper alignment. Test it for 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.
Lock the Screws
Locks for patio doors can be damaged by frequent usage, extreme temperatures dust and dirt. These delicate parts may be damaged if not properly maintained, causing your door to not lock properly. Most lock problems are easily 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 may be present. Then, dry the components 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 attract dust and debris and cause additional problems.
Then, if your patio door is equipped with an electronic foot lock for security, make sure 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 if needed. After the adjustment is completed then tighten the screw.
The most frequent issue in the repair of patio door handles is misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This could be due to the wear and tear of everyday use, or it could simply be due to the fact that the latch is placed higher or lower than it should be.
Then, take off the old handle and locate the bolts or screws that hold it in place. Make sure you keep track of these as you will need them later when installing the new handle. Then, remove the old spindle and slide the new one in place on the interior of the door. Make sure that it is properly aligned with the holes in both the exterior and interior handle. Reinstall the interior and external handles once the spindle is been installed. Make sure that they are aligned properly with the bolts or screws that hold them in place.
Close and lock the patio door once you have made any adjustments that are required. If the door is correctly aligned, it should open and shut without needing any additional force. If you still have problems you may have to reposition your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks still not working, it could be time to replace the lock. Most homeowners can change locks themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door open and removing the existing lock from the interior side of the door. Review the lock to determine the type of lock you will need.
Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws that secure the strike plate. This is the portion of the lock mounted on the outside of the door's frame. Adjust it horizontally or in an upward direction to align it with the latch hole. After you've repositioned the latch plate, tighten the screws and screw it in place.
After all the parts of your patio door are relocated or replaced, reassemble and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. Once you're finished, test the latch. Make sure it is fitted properly and catches the latch when the door is shut. If it does, your patio door lock has been put in place correctly and is now ready to give you the security and privacy that you have come to expect.
As with other parts of your home your patio doors also need to be aligned properly for them to work efficiently. Over time, heat and cold weather, dirt and debris, and other elements can cause the frames, hinges, and the locking mechanism to shift. Misaligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are like trying to insert keys into the wrong keyhole. It doesn't work. You can solve a problem which seemed impossible by following these simple steps. You should pat yourself on the back for tackling the task and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We'll bet you won't have any trouble opening or closing the door from here to the end. Good luck! We are here to assist if you need any assistance or have any questions.