How to
Repair patio door a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is essential to ensure your home's security. It can be frustrating when it isn't easy to lock.
A stubborn lock can be caused by misalignment or even simple wear and tear. It's possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these troubleshooting techniques fail, you may need to replace both the mortise and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock can become hard to open and close over time due to dirt, dust and grime. A regular cleaning and lubrication schedule can keep your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, saving you money on repair bills and allowing your door to reach its full lifespan.
The first step is to clean the lock cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or an equivalent penetrating spray do this. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole, and then rotate the key to spread the oil. Avoid using solvents like household oil or other that can harm your locks. Spray a little on the key.
After cleaning your lock's cylinder, it's time to lubricate. You can use a dry lubricant such as graphite powder or sprays of silicone. Graphite powder is long-lasting and doesn't attract dust like liquid lubricants do, which is why it's a great option for lubricating sticky locks. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand both humid and freezing temperatures, but may require multiple coats to work effectively.
You can also apply de-icer spray, which is specifically specially designed for cold weather. It will remove ice and frost on the mechanism of your lock. This will allow you to unlock your lock and unlock it with ease.
How often you need to lubricate your locks will depend on the environment. The location of your door will impact its performance. A location that is near the ocean can expose it to salty air which can cause corrosion. It is recommended to lubricate locks at least twice a 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 continues to function properly for a long time.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock doesn't function properly it could be because one or more of its parts could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repair of a broken lock on your patio door will stop further damage and increase the security of your doors. You can repair doors that are locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism, or replacing the lock cylinder.
Start by examining the exterior and inside of the lock to find signs of damage or misalignment. The patio door locks can expand or contract with the weather and may even shift over time. This slight movement may cause the locking mechanism to become misaligned and cause problems when closing or opening the door.
Then, look over the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. A damaged or corroded lock cylinder may be difficult to open, and can cause damage to the latch springs, cam or the lock pins. If the cylinder doesn't fit easily, you can remove any obstructions using a pair tweezers and a picklock. If the issue persists, you may need to take out the cylinder to find the cause.
If the lock cylinder isn't secured to the lock body you can loosen it by uncrewing the screw that is flat inside the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw will allow you rotate the cylinder, and may even help restore alignment.
Look for an elongated tab that moves along with the key. It's usually at the end. This tiny clip, also known as a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body all the way. The tab can be moved back with a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed, then reinserted.
If the cylinder of your lock is stuck, you can restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt engages the strike plate. The handle or knob may then be pushed and pulled back. After you have restored the proper alignment, put back together the lock and test its functionality. If your patio door lock isn't functioning properly, it is likely that a different component, such as the latch spring or latch must be replaced.
Tighten the Screws
The locks on
patio door glass repair near me doors can be damaged by frequent usage, extreme temperatures, dirt and dust. These delicate parts can 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 to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust that may be present and then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving components functioning smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, however they can attract dust and debris which could cause issues.
If your
patio door track repair door comes with a security footlock, ensure that the footlock is aligned properly with the strike plate. Most of the time, this will require you to adjust the screws that secure your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver and gently push it up or down to adjust the foot lock if needed. After the adjustment is completed, tighten the screw securely.
When it comes to repairing a patio door handle, the most common problem involves misalignment between the latch and strike plate. This could be caused by normal wear and tear, or the latch could be set higher or below what it should be.
Begin by removing the handle, then identify the bolts or screws that hold it in place. Make sure to keep track of them as you will require them when installing the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle and then slide the new one into position on the side of the door, making sure that it is aligned with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Install the exterior and interior handles after the spindle has been installed. Make sure that they're aligned properly with the bolts or screws that hold them in place.
Close and lock the patio door after you have made any adjustments that are required. If everything is in proper alignment, the door will be able to open and close smoothly, without additional force. If you're still having trouble, you might need to reposition the latch or strike plate or the lock's cylinder might be damaged and require to be replaced.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks not working, it could be time to replace the lock. The replacement of a lock is a fairly simple home improvement project that most homeowners can tackle themselves. Start by
sliding patio door repair the patio doors completely out and unscrewing your existing lock on the interior of the door. Study the existing lock to determine the type of lock that you will need.
Before installing the new latch, loosen screws that secure the strike plate. This is the portion of the lock that is mounted on the edges of the door's frame. Adjust it either horizontally or in an upward direction to align it with the holes in the latch. After you've adjusted the strike plate, secure it in place and tighten the screws.
After all components have been moved or adjusted, assemble and secure the patio door in accordance with the instructions given by the manufacturer. When you're done, check the latch to ensure that it fits and is able to catch the latch hasp when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is installed correctly and is able to provide the security and privacy you've come to expect from.
Like other areas of your home your patio doors also need to be properly aligned in order for them to function efficiently. Over time, temperature or cold, dirt and debris can cause the hinges and the frame of the door to shift. Misaligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are similar to trying to put keys in the wrong keyhole. It's not working. By following these easy steps, you can fix an issue that been thought to be impossible to fix. So go ahead and give yourself an ovation for tackling this project and regaining your patio door's lock position! We'll bet you won't have any more trouble opening or closing the door from now on. Best of luck! We're here to assist should you require assistance or have questions.
