How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is crucial to home security. It can be a hassle if your door is difficult to lock.
In a lot of instances, a locked that is not working is the result of misalignment or simple wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or adjusting its position could help restore its function. If these methods aren't working, you can replace both the mortise and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dust, dirt and grime can make it difficult to open or close a door lock. Regular cleaning and lubrication routine can prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, thereby saving you money on repairs and helping your door reach its full potential.
The first step is to clean the lock the cylinder. To do this, you'll need spray cans of penetrating oil, like WD-40. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole, and then turn the key to spread it. Avoid using household oil or other solvents, as they can damage your locks. Spray a bit on the key.
Once your lock cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. You can use a silicone spray or a dry lubricant like graphite powder. Graphite is a lubricant that lasts for a long time that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid fluids. It's a great option for lubricating locks. Silicone sprays are water-resistant and can withstand moist and freezing temperatures, but may require multiple coats to be effective.
You can also use sprays to de-icer your lock specially designed for colder weather and will loosen ice and frost from the lock mechanism. This will enable you to unlock your lock and lock it more easily.
The environment will determine the frequency at which you should belubricating locks. The location of your door will impact its performance. A location near the coast could expose the door to salty air, which could cause corrosion. It is recommended that you lubricate locks at least twice every year, or more frequently if your area has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door continues to function properly for long time to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't functioning properly, it could mean that one or more of the components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repair of a faulty lock on your patio door will stop further damage and increase the security of your doors. You can repair a patio door that is locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder.
Begin by inspecting the exterior and interior of the lock to determine whether there are signs of damage or misalignment. Patio door locks may expand or contract depending on the weather, and could shift over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to stop aligning properly and lead to problems with opening or closing the door.
Examine the keyway hole of the lock cylinder. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder may be difficult to open and may cause damage to the latch springs, cam, or lock pins. If the cylinder isn't fitting easily, you can get rid of any obstructions by using a pair of picklocks and tweezers. If the issue continues, you may have to remove the cylinder in order to locate the root of the issue.
If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed into the lock body then you can loosen it by unscrewing an elongated screw within the cylinder faceplate. Unscrewing this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and may aid in restoring alignment.
Examine the cylinder for a little tab that moves upwards and downwards with the key, usually towards the very end. This little clip, called a "release tab" is what keeps the cylinder from sliding into the lock body. A standard key will move this tab back to allow the cylinder to be released and allow it to be removed and reinserted.
If the cylinder of your lock is stuck, you can restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt is engaged with the strike plate. The handle or knob may then be pushed and pulled back. Once you have restored the proper alignment, you can reassemble the lock and check its functionality. If your patio door lock still isn't functioning properly It is likely that another component like the latch or latch spring must be replaced.
Lock the Screws
Over time, frequent use temperatures, cold and hot weather, dirt, and dust can take their toll on patio door locks. Unless properly cared for these delicate components can wear down and cause your door to fail to lock properly. Thankfully, most lock problems can be fixed easily with a few simple maintenance steps.
The first thing you have to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a dampened cloth to clean any dirt or dust that may be present. Then, dry www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk . After cleaning some silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts functioning efficiently and smoothly. Avoid lubricants that contain oil bases, however, as these can attract dust and debris which can cause further issues.
Then, if your patio door is equipped with a security foot lock be sure that the foot lock is properly 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. Unlock the screw with a Robertson screwdriver, and gently push it upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock if needed. After the adjustment is completed, tighten the screw.
The most frequent issue when it comes to repairing patio door handles is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This could be due to everyday wear and tear or the latch may be positioned above or below where it should be.
Then, take off the handle that was previously used and find the bolts or screws holding it in place. Make sure you keep track of these as you will need them later when installing the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle and place the new one into place on the interior of the door. Make sure it is in alignment with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Once the new spindle has been installed then reinstall the interior and exterior handles and ensure that they are in alignment with the screws or bolts which hold them in place.
Close and lock the patio door after you have made any necessary adjustments. If everything is in proper alignment, the door will open and close smoothly without additional force. If you are still having issues, you may need to move your strike plate or latch, or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the Latch
If your patio door locks still not working, it might be time to replace the lock. The majority of homeowners can replace locks themselves. Start by sliding the patio doors completely out and unscrewing your existing lock on the interior of the door. Carefully study how the existing lock is screwed to the door and the door jamb to get a sense for what kind of lock you'll need purchase.
Before installing the new latch remove the screws that hold the strike plate (the part of the lock that's set on the outside edge of the door frame) and adjust it vertically or horizontally to align it with the latch hole in the jamb in the door. After you've adjusted the strike plate, secure it in position and tighten the screws.
Once all the components of your patio door have been moved or replaced, you can reassemble them and secure them according to the instructions given by the manufacturer. When you're done, check the latch to make sure that it is in place and fits the latch's hasp when your door is closed. If it does, then your patio door lock has been put in place correctly and is able to provide the security and privacy that you've come to expect from.
Like other parts of your home, your patio doors need to be aligned properly for they to function effectively. Over time, temperatures cold, dirt and debris can cause hinges and door frame to shift. When these elements are misaligned, it's like trying to insert keys into the wrong keyhole and it doesn't work. You can fix the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these easy steps. So give yourself a pat on the back for tackling this project and reclaiming your patio door's lock position! We'll bet you won't have any trouble opening or closing the door from here to the end. Best of luck! We are here to help in case you require any assistance or have questions.