How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is vital to home security. It can be frustrating when it isn't easy to lock.
A locked that isn't working properly could be caused by misalignment, or simply wear and tear. It may be possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating the lock. If these methods aren't working, 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 routine will prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving you money on repair bills and helping your door reach its full lifespan.
To begin, you'll need to clean the lock the cylinder. To do this, use a spray can of penetrating oil, like WD-40. Spray a small amount into the keyhole and then move the key into and out to distribute 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 your lock cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. You can use dry lubricants such as graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite powder is long-lasting and doesn't attract dust like liquid lubricants do, so it's an excellent choice to lubricate locks that are sticky. Silicone sprays are able to withstand freezing temperatures and are resistant to water. However, they may require several coats to be efficient.
You can also apply de-icer spray, which is specifically made for cold weather. It will melt the frost and ice from the mechanism of your lock. This will help you unlock your lock and then relock it more easily.
How often you should lubricate your locks will depend on the environmental conditions. The location of your door will affect its performance. A coastal location can expose the door to salty air, which could cause corrosion. It is recommended to lubricate locks at least two times each year, or more often in areas with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door will perform as it should for long time to come.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't operating properly, it could be that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair of a faulty patio door lock can prevent any further damage and ensure your doors are safe. To fix a locked or unlocked patio door, you can tighten loose screws or adjust the mechanism of the lock, or replace the lock cylinder.
Begin by looking at the exterior and inside of the lock for indications of damage or misalignment. Patio door locks may expand or contract depending on the weather, and may even shift over time. This slight movement may cause the locking mechanism to become misaligned and cause issues when closing or opening the door.
Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. A damaged or corroded lock cylinder might be difficult to open, and may cause damage to the latch springs, cam or the lock pins. If the cylinder does not fit easily, you can remove any obstructions using a pair tweezers and a lock. If the problem persists it may be necessary to take the cylinder out and disassemble it in order to identify the cause of the obstruction.
If the lock cylinder is not been screwed to the body of the lock, it can be loosen by removing the screw on the cylinder faceplate. This screw will allow you rotate the cylinder, and may even help restore alignment.
Look over the cylinder for a tiny tab that moves up and down using the key, generally towards the end. This tiny clip, also known as a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. The tab can be removed using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be taken out and then it can be inserted.
If patio door repairs london is stuck, you might be able to restore proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate, and the knob or handle can be pulled in and withdrawn. Reassemble the lock after you have restored the proper alignment. Check it out for its functionality. If your patio door lock remains difficult to use, it's a sign that another component such as the latch or latch spring is damaged or worn out and may require replacement.
Tighten the Screws
Over time, the use of regular as well as cold and hot weather dust, dirt and even dirt can take their toll on patio door locks. These delicate parts may be damaged if they are not properly maintained, leading to your door to not lock properly. Thankfully, most lock problems are easily fixable with a few simple maintenance steps.
The first thing you have to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to clean any dirt or dust that may be present and then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant will help keep moving parts running smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants that contain oil bases,, as these can draw dust and dirt that can lead to further issues.
If your patio door comes with a security footlock, ensure that the footlock is properly aligned with the strike plate. In most instances, this will require adjustment of the screws that hold the foot lock to the frame of your patio door. To adjust the foot lock simply loosen the screw using the help of a Robertson screwdriver and gently pry it up or down. Once the adjustment has been completed you can tighten the screw.
The most frequent issue when it comes to fixing patio door handles is the misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This could be caused by wear and tear or the latch could be set higher or below what it should be.
Start by removing the handle, then find the bolts or screws that hold it in place. Make sure you keep track of these as you will require them when installing the new handle. Remove the old spindle and place the new one in place on the inside of the door. Make sure it is in alignment with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Install the exterior and interior handles after the spindle has been installed. Make sure that they are properly aligned with the bolts or screws to secure them.
Once you've made any necessary adjustments to your patio door, make sure to test it by locking and closing the door. If everything is in alignment, the door will open and close without any additional force. If you're having difficulty then you may need to adjust 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 still not working, it could be time to replace the lock. Replacing a lock is a fairly simple home improvement project that a majority of homeowners can complete by themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door all the way open and unscrewing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Carefully study how the existing lock is screwed to the door and the jamb so that you can discern the kind of lock you'll need purchase.
Before you install 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 either horizontally or vertically to align it with the latch hole in the door jamb. After you've repositioned your strike plate, screw it back into place and tighten the screws.
After all components have been repositioned or changed, assemble and secure the patio door in accordance with the instructions given by the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch to ensure that it is in place and fits the latch's hasp when your door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock has been put in place correctly and is able to provide the security and privacy that you have come to expect.
Patio doors, like other components of your home, need to be properly aligned to function effectively. Over time, temperatures and cold weather dirt and debris and other factors can cause the hinges, door frame, and locking mechanism to shift slightly. The wrongly aligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are similar to trying to put keys in the wrong keyhole. It's not working. If you follow these steps, you can fix the issue that may have seemed unfixable. You should pat yourself on the back for taking on the job and reclaiming your patio door's closed position! We'll bet you won't have any more trouble opening or closing the door from now to the end. Best of luck! We're here for you if there are any questions or concerns.