How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A safe patio door is essential to ensure your home's security. When yours becomes difficult to lock, it can be frustrating.

In most cases, a stubborn lock is the result of the wrong alignment or just wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or changing its position may help restore its function. If these solutions aren't working, you can replace both the mortise as well as the handle.

Clean and Lubricate

Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open and close doors. Regular cleaning and lubrication can help prevent your security device becoming stiff or stuck. This will save you money on repair costs and will extend the longevity of your door.

To begin, you will need to clean the lock's cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or a similar penetrating spray to accomplish this. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole, and then rotate the key to spread it. Do not use solvents like household oil or other, as they can damage your locks. Spray a bit on the key.

After cleaning your lock's cylinder, it's time to lubricate. You can use dry lubricants like graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite is a lubricant that lasts for a long time that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid lubricants. It's an excellent choice to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand moist and cold temperatures, however they may require several coats to be effective.

You can also use de-icer spray specifically specially designed for cold weather. It will break up the frost and ice from the lock mechanism. This will enable you to unlock your lock, and then lock it more easily.

How often you need to lubricate your locks will rely on environmental factors. The location of your door can affect its performance. A location that is near the ocean can expose the door to salty air, which could cause corrosion. The standard rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks twice per year or more often when you live in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door will function properly for years to come.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock does not function properly, one or more of its components could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repair patio door lock of a damaged lock on your patio door will stop further damage and increase the security of your doors. To fix a locked or unlocked patio door, you can tighten loose screws, adjust the lock mechanism or replace the lock cylinder.

Begin by inspecting 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 during temperatures that are cold or hot and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to misalign and cause issues when closing or opening the door.

Then, look over the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. A corroded or blocked cylinder can be difficult to open and can eventually cause damage to the pins, cams or latch springs. If the cylinder doesn't fit easily, you can remove any obstructions using a pair tweezers and a lock. If the issue persists it may be necessary to remove the cylinder and disassemble it in order to identify the source of the obstruction.

If the lock cylinder isn't secured to the lock body you can loosen it by uncrewing a flat screw inside the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw will let you rotate the cylinder, and may even help restore the alignment.

Look for a small tab that moves along with the key. It is usually at the end. This small clip, sometimes known as a "release Tab" is what stops the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. The tab can be moved back by using a standard key. This will allow the cylinder to be removed and then returned.

If the lock cylinder of yours is stuck, you may be able restore proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate, and the handle or knob can be pushed into and withdrawn. Reassemble the lock after you have restored the proper alignment. Test it to see if it works. If your patio door lock still isn't working it's likely that an additional component such as the latch or latch spring must be replaced.

Lock the Screws

Locks for patio doors are susceptible to damage from regular use, extreme temperatures dust, dirt and. These delicate parts can be damaged if not properly maintained, leading to your door to not lock properly. Most lock problems are easily repaired with a few easy steps.

The first thing you have to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to clean any dust or dirt that may be present. Then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant will help keep the moving components functioning smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants that contain oil bases,, as these can draw dust and dirt which could cause problems.

If your patio door has a foot lock that is secure be sure that the foot lock is aligned with the strike plate. In most cases this will only require you to adjust the screws that hold your foot lock to the frame of the patio screen door repair door. Unlock the screw with a Robertson screwdriver, and gently push it up or down to adjust the foot lock as required. After the adjustment is completed then tighten the screw.

When it comes to repairing the handle on a patio door, the most common problem involves misalignment between the latch and strike plate. This can be caused by everyday wear and tear, or it could simply be due to the fact that the latch is positioned higher or lower than it ought to be.

Then, take off the handle from the old one and locate the bolts or screws that are holding it in the place. Make sure to keep track of them as you will need them later when installing the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle and place the new one in place on the inside of the door. Be 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 has been installed. Make sure that they're properly aligned with the bolts or screws that hold 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 smoothly without additional force. If you're having difficulty it could be necessary to reposition the latch or strike plate or the lock's cylinder might be damaged and must be replaced.

Replace the latch

If your patio door locks aren't working, it could be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can replace a lock themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door completely open and then removing the current lock from the inside of the door. Carefully study how the existing lock is screwed into the door and the door jamb so that you can determine the type of lock you'll have to purchase.

Before installing the new latch, loosen screws that secure the strike plate. This is the part of the lock mounted on the edge of the frame of the door. Adjust it horizontally or in the vertical direction to align it with the holes for the latch. After you've adjusted the latch plate you can tighten the screws, then screw it into place.

After all the components have been moved or adjusted then assemble and secure the patio door in accordance with the instructions given by the manufacturer. After you're done, test the latch to ensure that it fits and catches the latch's hasp when the door is closed. If it does the lock will be able to latch onto the door. If it does, your patio door lock is working exactly as it should, and is able to provide you with the security and privacy you've come to expect from your doors.

As with other parts of your home the patio doors have to be properly aligned for them to work efficiently. Over time, temperatures, cold, dirt, and debris can cause the frames and hinges to shift. Incorrectly aligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are like trying to put keys into the wrong keyhole. It doesn't work. You can solve an issue that appeared impossible by following these simple steps. Give yourself a pat on your back for tackling the task and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're sure you'll have no issues opening or closing your patio door once more. Good luck! We're here for you if there are any questions or concerns.