How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A safe patio screen door repair near me door is a vital element of home security. It can be difficult when it isn't easy to lock.

A lock that is not working can be the result of misalignment or simply wear and wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or changing its position can aid in restoring its functionality. If these solutions aren't working, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.

Clean and Lubricate

A door lock may become difficult to open and close over time due to dirt, dust and grime. A regular cleaning and lubrication routine will stop your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving you money on repairs and allowing your door to reach its full potential.

In the beginning, you'll need to clean the lock's the cylinder. To do this, use a spray can of penetrating oil, like WD-40. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole and then turn the key to distribute it. Avoid using household oil or other solvents, as they can damage your locks. Spray a small amount on the key.

Once your lock cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. You can apply an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant, such as graphite powder. Graphite powder is long-lasting and doesn't attract dust as liquid lubricants do, which is why it's an excellent choice for lubricating sticky locks. Silicone sprays can be able to withstand temperatures that are below freezing and are resistant to water. However, they might require several coats to be efficient.

You can also use a de-icer spray that is designed for cold weather. It will remove frost and ice off the lock mechanism. A couple of sprays will aid your lock unlock and then lock again easily.

The environment will determine how often you need to belubricating locks. The location of your door will affect its performance. A coastal location can expose it to salty air which could cause corrosion. The general rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks at least twice a year and more frequently if you reside in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can 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 perform as it should, one or more of its parts may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely Repair Patio Door Lock of a faulty patio door lock can prevent additional damage and ensure that your doors are secure. You can fix the patio door that is locked or locked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder.

Begin by inspecting the exterior and interior of the lock for signs of damage or misalignment. The majority of patio door locks expand and contract in warm or cold weather, and may shift slightly over time. This slight shift can cause the locking mechanisms to stop aligning correctly and can cause issues when opening or closing the door.

Then, check the lock cylinder to find any obstructions in the keyway hole. An obstructed or corroded lock cylinder may be difficult to open and may eventually cause damage to the pins of the lock, cams or latch springs. If the cylinder does not fit easily, you can get rid of any obstructions with a pair of tweezers and a picklock. If the problem persists then you'll need to remove the cylinder and disassemble it to find the cause of the obstruction.

If the lock cylinder is not been screwed to the body of the lock it can be removed by removing the screw on the cylinder faceplate. By loosening this screw, it will allow you to move the cylinder around and could help restore proper alignment.

Look over the cylinder for a tiny tab that can move upwards and downwards with the key, generally towards the very end. This tiny clip, referred to as a "release tab" is what keeps the cylinder from sliding into the lock body. A standard key can move the tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and then reinserted.

If your lock cylinder is stuck, you might be able to restore the proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt engages with the strike plate, and the handle or knob can be pulled in and pulled out. Once you've restored the proper alignment, put back together the lock and check its performance. If your patio door lock still isn't working it's likely that another component like the latch spring or latch must be replaced.

Lock the Screws

Patio door locks can be damaged by frequent usage, extreme temperatures dust and dirt. Unless properly cared for the delicate parts could wear down and cause your door to not lock properly. Most lock problems are easily solved with just a few steps.

You should 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 will help keep moving parts running smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases since they could attract dust and other debris which could cause more problems.

If your patio door comes with a security footlock, make sure that the footlock is aligned correctly with the strike plate. In most cases, this will require adjustment of the screws that hold the foot lock to the frame of the patio door. To adjust the foot lock, loosen the screw with a Robertson screwdriver and gently pry it upwards or downwards. After the adjustment is completed, tighten the screw.

When it comes to repairing a patio doors repair near me door handle, the most common problem is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This could be caused by normal wear and tear or the latch could be placed lower or higher than it should be.

Then, take off the old handle and locate the bolts or screws that hold it in the first place. Be sure to keep track of these as you will require them when installing the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle and slide the new one into place on the interior of the door. Make sure it is properly aligned with the holes in both the exterior and interior handle. Once the new spindle has been installed put back the handles for both exterior and interior and ensure that they are aligned with the bolts or screws which hold them in place.

After you've made any needed adjustments to your patio door, make sure to test it by closing and locking the door. If the door is correctly aligned, it will open and shut without needing any additional force. If you're still experiencing difficulty, you might need to adjust the latch or strike plate, or the lock cylinder could be damaged and require to be replaced.

Replace the Latch

If your patio door locks still not working, it might be time to replace the lock. Installing a new lock is a relatively simple home improvement project that a majority of homeowners can tackle by themselves. Start by sliding the patio door completely open and then removing the current lock from the inside of the door. Examine the lock you have to determine the type of lock you'll require.

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 frame of the door. Adjust it either horizontally or in the vertical direction to align it with the holes in the latch. Once you have repositioned the latch plate you can tighten the screws, then fix it with screws.

After all components are repositioned or modified then assemble and secure the patio door in accordance with the instructions given by the manufacturer. Once you're finished, test the latch. Make sure it is fitted correctly and that it is able to latch when the door is closed. If it does the lock will be able to latch onto the door. If it does, your wood patio door repair door lock is functioning exactly as it should, and is can provide you with the security and privacy you've come expect from your home's doors.

Like other areas of your home the patio doors have to be aligned properly for them to function efficiently. Over time, cold and hot weather dirt and debris and other factors can cause hinges, door frame and locking mechanism to shift slightly. If these parts aren't aligned it's like trying to insert a key in the wrong hole for a key and it doesn't work. It is possible to fix the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these easy steps. You should pat yourself on your 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. Have fun! We are here to help if you need any assistance or have questions.