The 9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Repair Patio Door Lock

How to repair patio door a Bad Patio Door Lock

A safe patio door is vital for home security. It can be a hassle if yours is difficult to lock.

In most instances, a locked that is not working is caused by the wrong alignment or just wear and tear. It is possible to restore the function of the lock by adjusting it or lubricating it. If these methods of troubleshooting aren't working, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.

Clean and Lubricate

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

The first step in the process is to clean your lock cylinder. To do this, use spray cans 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 solvents like household oil or other, as they can damage your locks. Spray a small amount on the key.

After cleaning your lock cylinder it's time to grease. You can use a dry lubricant such as graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite powder has a long life and doesn't swell up like liquid lubricants do, so it's an excellent choice for lubricating sticky locks. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand moist and cold temperatures, however they may require multiple coats to be effective.

You can also use sprays for de-icing that is made for cold weather and will remove frost and ice from the lock mechanism. A few sprays of this will aid your lock to unlock and then lock more easily.

The climate will determine how often you should belubricating locks. The location of your door will affect its performance. A coastal location can expose it to salty air which could cause corrosion. It is recommended to regularly lubricate your locks at least twice each year, or more often in areas with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can save money on repairs, and ensure that it continues to function in a good way for many years.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock isn't operating properly, it could mean that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of a broken lock on your patio door will prevent further damage and ensure the security of your doors. You can fix doors that are locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder.

Begin by looking at the exterior and interior of the lock to determine if there are any signs of damage or misalignment. Often, patio door locks expand and contract in temperatures that are cold or hot and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to misalign and cause problems when closing or opening the door.

Then, check the lock cylinder for obstructions in the keyway hole. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder can be difficult to open and may eventually cause damage to the pins, cams, or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you may be able to dislodge any obstruction using a pair of tweezers or a picklock. If the issue persists then you'll need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to find the source of the obstruction.

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

Check the cylinder for a small tab that moves upwards and downwards with the key, generally towards the very end. This small clip, sometimes known as a "release Tab" is what stops the cylinder from sliding patio door repairs into the lock body completely. A standard key can slide this tab back to allow the cylinder to be released and allow it to be removed and then reinserted.

If the cylinder of your lock is stuck, you can restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt contacts the strike plate. The knob or handle may then be pushed and pulled back. Reassemble the lock after you have restored alignment. Test it for functionality. If your patio door lock isn't working properly It is likely that another component like the latch spring or latch must be replaced.

Tighten the Screws

Locks for patio doors can be damaged by regular usage, extreme temperatures dust, dirt and. These delicate parts may be damaged if they are not properly maintained, leading to your door to not lock properly. Most lock problems are easily fixed with a few simple 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 silicone-based lubricant will help keep the moving components functioning smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, they can attract dust and debris which could cause issues.

Then, if your patio door has a security foot lock ensure that the lock is aligned with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will only require adjusting the screws that secure the foot lock to the patio door frame. Remove the screw using the Robertson screwdriver and gently move it upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock as required. Once the adjustment is done then tighten the screw.

The most common problem when it comes to fixing patio screen door repair near me door handles is misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This could be due to everyday wear and tear, or the latch could be placed higher or below what it is supposed to be.

Begin by removing the handle, then identify the bolts or screws that secure it. Make sure you keep track of these since you will need them when installing the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle, and then slide the new one into the door on the inside of the door, ensuring that it is in alignment with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Once the new spindle is installed then reinstall the interior and exterior handles to ensure that they are in alignment with the bolts or screws that hold them in place.

After you've made the necessary adjustments to your patio door lock repairs near me door, be sure to test it by locking and closing the door. If the door is correctly aligned, it will open and close smoothly without the need for any additional force. If you still have problems you may have 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 may be time to replace the lock. The majority of homeowners can replace locks themselves. Start by sliding the patio door completely open and then removing the current lock from the interior side of the door. Study the existing lock to determine the type of lock you'll require.

Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws securing the strike plate (the part of the lock that's positioned on the outside of the door frame) and adjust it either horizontally or vertically to align it with the hole in the jamb of the door. After you've adjusted the latch plate then tighten the screws and screw it in place.

After all the components have been repositioned or changed, assemble and secure the patio door according to the instructions of the manufacturer. When you're done testing the latch. Make sure it fits correctly and that it is able to latch when the door is shut. If it does, then your patio door lock is installed correctly and is able to provide the security and privacy that you have come to expect.

Like other areas of your home your patio doors also need to be properly aligned in order for they to function effectively. Over time, heat cold, dirt and debris can cause hinges and the frame of the door to shift. The wrongly aligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are similar to trying to put keys in the wrong keyhole. It doesn't work. If you follow these steps, you will be able to fix a problem that might have been thought to be impossible to fix. Do yourself a big pat on the back for tackling the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're sure you won't have any issues opening or closing the door from here on out. Good luck! We're here to help if you have any concerns or questions.