How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is a crucial element of home security. It can be frustrating when yours is difficult to lock.
In many cases, a stubborn lock is caused by an incorrect alignment or simply wear and tear. It's possible to restore the lock's function by adjusting it or lubricating it. If these solutions aren't working, 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 the door lock. Regular cleaning and lubrication schedule can stop your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving you money on repairs and allowing your door to reach its maximum lifespan.
In the beginning, you'll need to clean the lock cylinder. To do this, you'll need a spray can of penetrating oil such as WD-40. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole, and then rotate the key to spread it. Avoid using household oil or other solvents which could damage your locks. Spray a little on the key.
After cleaning your lock's cylinder, it is time to lubricate. You can apply an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. Graphite is a lubricant that lasts for a long time that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid lubricants. It's an excellent choice for locking lubrication. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand both moist and cold temperatures, however they may require several coats to be effective.
You can also apply sprays to de-icer your lock specially designed for colder weather and will remove frost and ice from the lock mechanism. This will enable you to unlock your lock and then unlock it with ease.
How often you have to lubricate your locks will rely on environmental factors. The location of your door will affect its performance. A location that is near the ocean can expose it to salty air, which can cause corrosion. It is recommended that you lubricate locks at least once each year, or more often in areas with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks will save the cost of repairs and ensure that it will continue to function in a good way for a long time.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't working correctly, it could indicate that one or more parts are damaged or misaligned. www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk and prompt repair of a faulty patio door lock can avoid further damage and ensure that your doors are safe. You can fix doors that are locked or locked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism, or replacing the lock cylinder.
Start by examining the exterior and interior of the lock to find signs of damage or misalignment. Patio door locks may expand or contract depending on the weather and might even shift with time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanisms to stop aligning properly and lead to problems with opening or closing the door.
Then, look over the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. A damaged or corroded lock cylinder might be difficult to open and could cause damage to the cam, latch springs or the lock pins. If the cylinder is difficult to insert, you may be able of removing any obstruction using a pair of tweezers, or a picklock. If the issue continues, you may need to take out the cylinder to find the cause.
If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the body of the lock you can loosen it by uncrewing a flat screw inside the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw will allow you rotate the cylinder, and could even aid in restoring the alignment.
Look for a small tab that moves with the key. It's usually located near the end. This little clip, called a "release tab" is what keeps the cylinder from sliding all the way into the body of the lock. A standard key can slide this tab back to let the cylinder out and allow it to be removed and reinserted.
If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you might be able restore proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt connects with the strike plate and the knob or handle can be pushed in and withdrawn. After you have restored the proper alignment, reassemble the lock and check its performance. 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.
Tighten the Screws
Over time, the use of regular, hot and cold weather dust, dirt and even dirt can cause damage to patio door locks. Unless properly cared for these delicate components can wear down and cause your door to not lock properly. Most lock issues can be repaired with a few easy steps.
The first thing you have to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust that may be present, and dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts operating smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases, they can draw dust and dirt which can cause further problems.
If your patio door is equipped 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 hold your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Unlock the screw with the Robertson screwdriver, and then gently push it up or down to adjust the foot lock as required. Once the adjustment has been completed you can tighten the screw.
When it comes time to repair the handle of a patio door the most frequent issue is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This could be due to the wear and tear of everyday use or it could be due to the fact that the latch is placed higher or lower than it should be.
Then, remove the old handle and find the bolts or screws holding it in the place. Keep track of the bolts or screws, because you will need them to attach the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle and then slide the new spindle into position on the inside of the door, making sure that it is properly aligned with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Once the new spindle has been installed put back the handles on the exterior and interior, making sure that they are in alignment with the screws or bolts which hold them in place.
Once you've made any necessary adjustments to your patio door, be sure to test it by closing and locking the door. If everything is in proper alignment, the door will open and close without additional force. If you're still experiencing difficulty then you may need to adjust the latch or strike plate, or the lock cylinder could be damaged and need to 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. Start by sliding the patio doors completely out and then removing your existing lock on the inside of the door. Be sure to study the way in which the current lock is screwed to the door and the jamb so that you can determine the type of lock you'll have to purchase.
Before installing the new latch take off the screws that secure the strike plate (the part of the lock that's positioned on the outside edge of the door frame) and then adjust it horizontally or vertically to align it with the hole in the jamb in the door. After you've adjusted the latch plate then tighten the screws and fix it with screws.
When all the components of your patio door have been moved or replaced, you can reassemble them and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. Once you're finished checking the latch. Make sure it fits properly and catches the latch when the door is closed. If it does, then your patio door lock is installed correctly and is able to provide the security and privacy that you've come to expect from.
Like other parts of your house should be properly aligned to function effectively. Over time, heat and cold weather, dirt and debris, and other factors can cause frames, hinges, and the locking mechanism to shift. Incorrectly aligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are like trying to insert keys in the wrong keyhole. It's not working. If you follow these steps, you will be able to fix a problem that might have seemed unfixable. You should pat yourself on the back for tackling 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 out. Have fun! We're here to help if you have any concerns or questions.