How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is essential to ensure your home's security. It can be frustrating when yours is difficult to lock.
A stubborn lock can be the result of misalignment or even simple wear and wear and tear. It's 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 as well as the handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock may be difficult to open and close over time because of dust, dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication routine can stop your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving your money on repair costs and allowing your door to enjoy its maximum lifespan.
To begin, you'll need to clean the lock's the cylinder. Use WD-40 or a similar penetrating spray to complete this. Spray a small amount of 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.
After cleaning your lock's cylinder, it is time to lubricate. You can use a silicone spray or a dry lubricant such as graphite powder. Graphite is a long-lasting lubricant that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid oils. It's a great option for locking lubrication. Silicone sprays are able to 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 that is designed for cold weather. It will remove ice and frost on the mechanism of your lock. This will allow you to unlock your lock and then lock it more easily.
The environment will determine the frequency at which you should lubricate locks. A coastal location will expose your door to salty air and cause corrosion, and temperature changes can impact the efficiency of your lock. It is recommended to regularly lubricate your locks at least once every year, or more frequently in areas with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door will function as it should for many years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't working properly, it could be that one or more parts are damaged or misaligned. patio door replacement cost uk and prompt repair of a faulty patio door lock can prevent further damage and ensure that your doors are secure. You can repair a patio door that is locked or locked by tightening loose screws, altering the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder.
Start by checking the exterior and interior of the lock to see if there are any signs of damage or misalignment. Locks for patio doors can expand or contract in response to the weather, and might even shift with time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to become misaligned and cause issues when opening or closing the door.
Next, examine the lock cylinder to find any obstructions in the keyway hole. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder can be difficult to open and could eventually cause damage to the lock pins, cam or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't easy to insert, you may be able to remove any obstruction using the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the problem persists you may have to remove the cylinder to find the root of the issue.
If the lock cylinder has not been screwed to the lock body and is loose, it can be loosened by unscrewing the flat screw on the faceplate of the cylinder. By loosening this screw, it will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could aid in restoring alignment.
Look over the cylinder for a tiny tab that moves up and down with the key, usually towards the very end. This tiny clip, referred to as a "release tab" is what keeps the cylinder from sliding all the way into the body of the lock. A standard key will move this tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and reinserted.
If the lock cylinder has become stuck it is possible to restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt is engaged with the strike plate. The knob or handle can then be pushed, and pulled back. Once you have restored the proper alignment, put back together 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 worn or damaged and may require replacement.
Make sure you tighten the Screws
The locks on patio doors can be damaged by regular usage, extreme temperatures dust and dirt. These delicate parts may be damaged if they are not properly maintained, causing your door to stop locking properly. Thankfully, most lock problems can be easily fixed with just a few simple maintenance steps.
The first thing you need to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to get rid of any dust or dirt that might be found. Then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant will help keep the moving parts running smoothly and effectively. Avoid lubricants that contain oil bases,, as these can draw dust and dirt which can cause further issues.
If your patio door is fitted with a security footlock, make sure that the footlock is aligned properly with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will require changing the screws that attach the foot lock to the frame of your patio door. Remove the screw using the Robertson screwdriver, and then gently push it up or down to adjust the foot lock as needed. Once the adjustment is complete then tighten the screw.
When it comes to fixing the handle on a patio door the most frequent issue involves misalignment between the latch and strike plate. This can be caused by normal wear and tear, or the latch could be set above or below where it should be.
Then, take out the old handle and locate the screws or bolts that hold it in place. Keep on track of the screws or bolts, since you'll need them to install the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle and slide the new one into place on the inside of the door. Make sure it is properly aligned with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Reinstall the interior and external handles once the spindle is been installed. Make sure that they're aligned properly with the screws or bolts holding them in place.
Close and secure the patio door after you have made any adjustments that are required. If everything is in proper alignment, the door will open and close without any additional force. If you're having difficulty, you might need to move the latch or strike plate or the lock cylinder may be damaged and must be replaced.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks not working, it might be time to replace the lock. Most homeowners can change the lock themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door open and removing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed to the door and jamb to determine the kind of lock you'll have to purchase.
Before you install the new latch take off the screws that secure the strike plate (the part of the lock that's positioned on the outside of the door frame) and adjust it either horizontally or vertically to align it with the latch hole in the jamb in the door. After you've repositioned your strike plate, screw it back into its place and tighten the screws.
After all the components have been moved or adjusted, assemble and secure the patio door as instructed by the manufacturer. Once you're finished checking the latch. Check to see if it fits correctly and is secured when the door is shut. If it does, then your patio door lock is installed correctly and is now ready to give you the security and privacy you have come to expect.
Like other areas of your home your patio doors also need to be properly aligned in order for they to function effectively. Over time, heat, cold, dirt, and debris can cause the hinges and door frame to shift. Misaligned hinges, door frames, and locking mechanisms are like trying to insert keys in the wrong keyhole. It's not working. It is possible to fix an issue that appeared impossible by following these easy steps. Give yourself a pat on your back for tackling the job and reclaiming your patio door's closed position! We're sure you'll not have any issues opening or closing your patio door. Good luck! We're here for you if there are any questions or concerns.