How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is a vital element of home security. If it becomes difficult to lock, it could be a hassle.
A lock that is not working can be caused by misalignment, or even simple wear and wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or changing its position may help to restore its function. If these troubleshooting techniques don't work you can replace both the mortise and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock can be difficult to open and close over time because of dust, dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication schedule can prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, thereby saving your money on repair costs and helping your door reach its full potential.
In the beginning, you'll need to clean the lock the cylinder. Use 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 the oil. Avoid using household solvents or other oils that can damage your locks. Also, make sure to spray a little on the key itself as well.
After cleaning your lock cylinder, it is time to lubricate. You can use an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant such as graphite powder. Graphite is a long-lasting lubricant that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid oils. It's an excellent choice to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays can be able to withstand temperatures that are below freezing and are impervious to water. However, they may require multiple coats to be efficient.
You can also apply a de-icer spray that is designed for cold weather and will loosen ice and frost from the lock mechanism. A couple of sprays will aid your lock unlock and then lock more easily.
How often you have to oil your locks will be contingent on the environmental conditions. A coastal location will expose your door to salty air, which can cause corrosion. Temperature variations can influence the efficiency of your lock. It is recommended that you ensure that your locks are lubricated at least once each year, or more often in areas with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure that your patio door continues to function properly for years to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock does not perform as it should it could be because one or more of its components could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair of a defective patio door lock can prevent additional damage and ensure that your doors are secure. To repair a locked or unlocked patio door, you can tighten loose screws or adjust the lock mechanism, or replace the lock cylinder.
Begin by inspecting the exterior and inside of the lock for signs of damage or misalignment. Most often, patio door locks expand and contract in warm or cold weather, and can shift slightly over time. updated blog post could cause the locking mechanism to misalign and cause problems when closing or opening the door.
Examine the keyway hole on the lock cylinder. An obstructed or corroded lock cylinder is difficult to open and could eventually cause damage to the pins of the lock, cams, or latch springs. If the cylinder is difficult to insert, you may be able of removing any obstructions with the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the problem persists it may be necessary to take the cylinder out and disassemble it in order to identify the root of the problem.
If the lock cylinder isn't secured to the lock body you can loosen it by removing the screw that is flat inside the cylinder faceplate. This screw will let you rotate the cylinder, and could even aid in restoring alignment.
Check the cylinder for a tiny tab that moves up and down with the key, usually towards the end. This little clip, also known as a "release tab" is what keeps the cylinder from sliding all the way into the lock body. A standard key will move the tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and reinserted.
If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you might be able to restore the proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate, and the knob or handle can be pushed in and withdrawn. Once you have restored the proper alignment, you can reassemble the lock and test its performance. If your patio door lock still isn't working properly, it is likely that a different component, such as the latch or latch spring must be replaced.
Lock the Screws
Over time, the use of regular temperatures, cold and hot weather dust, dirt and even dirt can take their toll on patio door locks. If they are not properly taken care of, these delicate parts can wear down and cause your door to not lock properly. Most lock issues can be solved with just a few steps.
The first thing to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp 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,, as these can draw dust and dirt that can lead to further issues.
If your patio door is fitted with a security footlock, ensure that the footlock is aligned properly with the strike plate. In most cases this will require you to adjust the screws that attach your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Unlock the screw with a Robertson screwdriver, and gently pry upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock if needed. After the adjustment is completed, tighten the screw securely.
When it comes to fixing the handle on a patio door, the most common problem is misalignment between the latch and strike plate. This could be due to everyday wear and tear, or it could simply be that the latch is set higher or lower than it should be.
Start by removing the old handle, and then locate the bolts or screws that hold it in place. Keep track of the bolts or screws, since you'll need them for the installation of the new handle. Then, take off the spindle that was in use and slide the new one in place on the inside of the door. Make sure that it is properly aligned with the holes in both the exterior and interior handle. Once the new spindle is in place, reinstall the handles for both exterior and interior, making sure that they are aligned with the screws or bolts which hold them in place.
Once you've made any necessary adjustments to your patio door, make sure to test it by closing and locking the door. If everything is in proper alignment, the door should be able to open and close smoothly, without additional force. If you're still having problems, you may need to adjust the position of your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks are not working, it could be time to replace the lock. Replacing a lock is a relatively simple home improvement project that most homeowners can tackle by themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door completely open and unscrewing the existing lock from the interior side of the door. Be sure to study the way in which the current lock is screwed into the door and the jamb so that you can discern the type of lock you'll have to purchase.
Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws that hold the strike plate. This is the portion of the lock that is positioned on the edges of the door's frame. Adjust it either horizontally or in the vertical direction so that it is aligned with the holes in the latch. Once you have repositioned the latch plate, tighten the screws and screw it into place.
After all components have been moved or adjusted then assemble and secure the patio door in accordance with the instructions given by the manufacturer. After you've completed the process, test the latch. Check to see if it fits properly and catches the latch when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is now working just as it should and is will provide the security and privacy you've come expect from your home's doors.
Like other parts of your house should be aligned properly to work effectively. Over time, heat cold, dirt and debris can cause the hinges and door frame to shift. The wrongly aligned hinges, door frames, and locking mechanisms are like trying to insert keys in the wrong keyhole. It's not working. 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're sure you'll not have any issues opening or closing your patio door once more. Have fun! We're here to assist should you require assistance or have questions.