What The 10 Most Worst Repair Patio Door Lock Failures Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented

How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A secure patio door is essential for home security. If your door is difficult to lock, it can be a hassle.

In most cases, a stubborn lock is the result of misalignment or simple wear and tear. Lubricating the lock, or adjusting its position can aid in restoring its functionality. If these methods fail, you may need to replace both the mortise as well as the handle.

Clean and Lubricate

Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open or close doors. A regular cleaning and lubrication routine can stop your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, thereby saving you money on repairs and allowing your door to reach its full lifespan.

In the beginning, you'll need to clean the lock's cylinder. To do this, use a spray can of penetrating oil, such as WD-40. Spray a small amount into the keyhole and then move the key through and out to spread the oil. Avoid using household solvents or other oils that could damage your locks, and make sure to spray a little on the key itself as well.

After cleaning your lock's cylinder, it's time to grease. You can use an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. Graphite powder has a long life and doesn't attract dust like liquid lubricants, so it's an excellent choice to lubricate locks that are sticky. Silicone sprays are water-resistant and can withstand moist and cold temperatures, however they may require several coats to be effective.

You can also apply de-icer spray, which is specifically made for cold weather. It will melt the frost and ice from the lock mechanism. A couple of sprays will aid your lock to unlock and then lock more easily.

How often you need to oil your locks will be contingent on the environmental conditions. The location of your door will impact its performance. A location that is near the ocean can expose the door to salty air, which could cause corrosion. It is recommended to ensure that your locks are lubricated at least two times a year or more often when you live in an area with severe weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure that your patio door will function properly for long time to come.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock does not work properly, one or more of its parts may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair of a defective patio door lock can prevent further damage and ensure that your doors are safe. To fix a locked or non-locked patio door, tighten loose screws and adjust the lock mechanism or replace the lock cylinder.

Start by checking the exterior and the inside of the lock to see whether there are signs of damage or misalignment. The patio door locks can expand or contract in response to the weather, and could shift over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanisms to not align properly and can cause issues when opening or closing the patio door.

Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder may be difficult to open and can eventually cause damage to the pins of the lock, cams, or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't easy to insert, you might be able to remove any obstruction using a pair of tweezers, or a picklock. If the issue continues, you may need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to find the source of the obstruction.

If the lock cylinder has not been screwed onto the lock body and is loose, it can be loosened by unscrewing the flat screw on the cylinder faceplate. This screw will allow you rotate the cylinder, and it could also help restore alignment.

Examine the cylinder for a little tab that can move up and down with the key, typically towards the end. This little clip, also known 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 the tab back to let the cylinder out and allow it to be removed and put back in.

If the lock cylinder is stuck and is not aligned, you can fix it by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt contacts the strike plate. The handle or knob can then be pushed, and withdrawn. Reassemble the lock once you have restored proper alignment. Check it out for its functionality. If your patio door lock still isn't functioning properly, it is likely that another component like the latch spring or latch needs to be replaced.

Lock the Screws

Over time, regular use as well as cold and hot weather dust, dirt and even dirt can take their toll on patio door locks. These delicate components can be damaged if they are not properly maintained, leading to your door to not lock properly. Most lock problems are easily solved with just a few steps.

It is recommended to first clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to get rid of any dust or dirt that may be present and dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts operating efficiently and smoothly. Avoid lubricants that have oil bases since they could attract dust and other debris, which can cause further problems.

Then, if your patio door is equipped with a foot lock that is secure ensure that the foot lock is properly aligned with the strike plate. Most of the time, this will only require you to adjust the screws that hold your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. To adjust the foot lock you need to loosen the screw using the help of a Robertson screwdriver and gently pry it up or down. After the adjustment is completed, tighten the screw.

When it comes to repairing the handle of a patio door the most frequent issue is misalignment between the strike plate and latch. This can be caused by wear and tear, or the latch may be positioned above or below where it should be.

Start by removing the handle, and then locate the bolts or screws that hold it in place. Keep in mind the bolts or screws, as you will require them for the installation of the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle and place the new one on the interior of the door. Make sure it is aligned properly with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Once the new spindle is installed then reinstall the handles on the exterior and interior to ensure that they are in alignment with the bolts or screws that hold them in place.

Close and secure the patio door after you have made any necessary adjustments. If everything is in alignment, the door will open and close without any additional force. If  RepairMyWindowsAndDoors  having difficulty then you may need to adjust the latch or strike plate or the lock cylinder may be damaged and require to be replaced.

Replace the latch

If your patio door locks do not work, it might be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can change locks themselves. Begin by sliding the patio doors all the way out and then removing your existing lock on the interior of the door. Be sure to study the way in which the current lock is screwed into the door and the jamb to discern the type of lock you'll need purchase.

Before installing the new latch take off the screws that secure the strike plate (the part of the lock that's mounted on the outside edge of the door frame) and adjust it horizontally or vertically to align it with the latch hole in the jamb of the door. After you've repositioned the latch plate then tighten the screws and fix it with screws.

Once all the components of your patio door are repositioned or replaced, reassemble and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch to make sure that it fits and catches the latch's hasp when your door is closed. If it does the lock will be able to latch onto the door. If it does, your patio door lock is now functioning just as it should and is will provide you with the security and privacy you've come to appreciate from your home's doors.

Patio doors, like other parts of your house, need to be aligned properly to work efficiently. Over time, heat cold, dirt and debris could cause the hinges and door frame to shift. If these components are not aligned, it's like trying to fit a key in the wrong keyhole it won't work. It is possible to fix the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these easy steps. Give yourself a pat on the back for taking on the job and reclaiming your patio door's closed position! We'll bet you won't have any trouble opening or closing the door from now on. Have fun! We are here to help if you need any assistance or have questions.