How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is an essential part of home security. If it becomes difficult to lock, it can be frustrating.
In most instances, a lock that is difficult to open is the result of the wrong alignment or just wear and tear. It is possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting it or lubricating it. If these methods of troubleshooting don't work, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open or close doors. Regular cleaning and lubrication could help prevent your security device becoming stiff or stuck. This will save you money in repair costs and will extend the longevity of your door.
The first step in the process is to clean your lock 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 sliding glass patio door repair or other solvents that can harm your locks. Spray a little on the key.
After cleaning your lock cylinder, it is time to lubricate. You can use a dry lubricant such as graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite powder lasts for a long time and doesn't attract dust as liquid lubricants do, so it's a great option to lubricate locks that are sticky. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand both humid and cold temperatures, however they might require multiple coats to be effective.
You can also use sprays to de-icer your lock specially designed for cold weather and will lift frost and ice off the lock mechanism. A few coats of this will aid your lock unlock and then lock more easily.
The environment will determine how often you need to lubricate locks. A location near the coast will expose your door to salty air and cause corrosion. Temperature changes can affect the performance of your lock. The standard rule of thumb is to oil your locks twice per year, or more frequently if you reside in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door continues to perform as it should for years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock does not function properly, one or more of its parts may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair of a faulty patio door lock can prevent further damage and ensure that your doors are secure. To repair a locked or unlocked patio door, tighten loose screws or adjust the mechanism of the lock, or replace the lock cylinder.
Begin by inspecting the exterior and interior of the lock to see whether there are any indications of damage or misalignment. Patio door locks can expand or contract in response to the weather and may even shift over time. This slight movement may cause the locking mechanism to be misaligned and cause problems when opening or closing the door.
Examine the keyway hole of the lock cylinder. A damaged or corroded lock cylinder could be difficult to open, and may cause damage to the cam, latch springs, or the lock pins. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you might be able to dislodge any obstructions using a pair of tweezers, or a picklock. If the problem persists you might need to remove the cylinder to determine the root of the issue.
If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed into the body of the lock you can loosen it by removing the screw that is flat inside the cylinder faceplate. Loosening this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could help restore proper alignment.
Check the cylinder for a little tab that can move up and down with the key, usually towards the very end. This small clip, also known as a "release Tab" will stop the cylinder from sliding into the lock body in the entire way. The tab can be removed using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed and then it can be inserted.
If the lock cylinder is stuck and is not aligned, you can fix it by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt is engaged with the strike plate. The handle or knob may then be pushed and withdrawn. Once you've restored the proper alignment, you can reassemble the lock and test it for performance. If your patio door lock is difficult to use, it's a sign that a component, like the latch spring or latch is damaged or worn and may require replacement.
Lock the Screws
Over time, frequent use as well as cold and hot weather dust, dirt and even dirt can take their toll on patio door locks. These delicate parts can wear out if not maintained properly, causing your door to not lock properly. Most lock problems are easily solved with just a few steps.
Clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth remove any dirt or dust that may be present and dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can help keep moving parts running smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases since they could draw dust and dirt which could cause more problems.
If your patio door is fitted with an electronic footlock for security, make sure that the footlock is aligned properly with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will only require changing the screws that attach the foot lock to the patio door frame. Remove the screw using a Robertson screwdriver and gently push it upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock if needed. Once the adjustment is done, tighten the screw securely.
When it comes to repairing the handle on a patio door the most frequent issue is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This can be caused by the wear and tear of everyday use or it could be that the latch is placed higher or lower than it ought to be.
Then, remove the handle that was previously used and locate the bolts or screws that hold it in place. Keep on track of the screws or bolts, because you will need them for the installation of the new handle. Remove the old spindle and slide the new one into place on the inside of the door. Make sure that it is properly aligned with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Once the new spindle has been installed then reinstall the handles on the exterior and interior to ensure that they are properly aligned with the bolts or screws which hold them in place.
Once you've made any necessary adjustments to your patio door, make sure to test it by locking and closing the door. If everything is in proper alignment, the door will be able to open and close smoothly, without any additional force. If you're having difficulty it could be necessary to move the strike plate or latch or the lock cylinder could be damaged and need to be replaced.
Replace the Latch
If your patio door locks don't work, it may be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can replace locks themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door completely open and unscrewing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Be sure to study the way in which the current lock is screwed into both the door and the door jamb to determine the type of lock you'll have to purchase.
Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws securing the strike plate (the part of the lock that's mounted on the outside of the door frame) and then adjust it horizontally or vertically to align it with the hole in the jamb of the door. After you've repositioned your strike plate, screw it into its place and tighten the screws.
After all the components have been repositioned or changed after which you can assemble and secure your patio door according to the instructions of the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch to ensure that it fits and is able to catch the latch hasp when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is installed correctly and is able to provide the security and privacy that you have come to expect.
As with other parts of your home the patio doors have to be aligned properly for them to function efficiently. Over time, temperatures and cold weather dirt and debris and other factors can cause the hinges, door frame, and locking mechanism to shift. If these components are not aligned it's like trying to fit a key into the wrong keyhole and it doesn't work. By following these simple steps, you can solve the issue that may have appeared to be unfixable. So give yourself an ovation for tackling this project and reclaiming your patio door's locked position! We're sure you'll have no issues opening or closing your patio door. Good luck! We're here to help if you have any questions or concerns.