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How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A secure patio door is vital to home security. It can be frustrating when your door is difficult to lock.

A lock that is not working can be caused by misalignment or simply wear and tear. It's possible to restore the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating the lock. If these methods don't work you can replace both the mortise as well as the 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 prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, thereby saving you money on repair bills and helping your door reach its full lifespan.

To begin, you'll have to clean the lock cylinder. To do this, you'll need spray cans 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 solvents or other oils that could damage your locks. Also, make sure you spray some on the key itself.

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Once your lock cylinder is clean and lubricated, it's time to apply. You can apply dry lubricants like graphite powder or sprays of silicone. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/patio-door-repairs-bournemouth/ is a long-lasting lubricant that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid fluids. It's a great choice to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays are able to be able to withstand temperatures that are below freezing and are impervious to water. However, they may require several coats to be effective.

You can also use de-icer spray, which is specifically specially designed for cold weather. It will melt the frost and ice from the mechanism of your lock. This will allow you to unlock your lock, and then unlock it with ease.

The climate will determine the frequency at which you should belubricating locks. The location of your door can affect its performance. A location near the coast could expose the door to salty air, which could cause corrosion. The standard rule of thumb is to oil your locks every two years or more often if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door will perform as it should for years to come.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock isn't operating correctly, it could indicate that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and timely repairs of a broken lock on your patio door will help prevent further damage and guarantee the security of your doors. To fix a locked or unlocked patio door, tighten loose screws and adjust the lock mechanism, or replace the lock cylinder.

Begin by looking at the exterior and interior of the lock to determine whether there are signs of damage or misalignment. The patio door locks can expand or contract in response to the weather, and might even shift with time. This slight movement may cause the locking mechanism to be misaligned and cause problems when opening or closing the door.

Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. A corroded or blocked cylinder is difficult to open and could eventually cause damage to the lock pins, cam or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you might be able to dislodge any obstructions using a pair of tweezers or a picklock. If the issue persists, you may have to remove the cylinder in order to locate the source.

If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed into the lock body, you can loosen it by removing the screw that is flat inside the faceplate of the cylinder. Unscrewing this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and may help restore proper alignment.

Look over the cylinder for a little tab that can move up and down with the key, generally towards the end. This tiny clip, referred to as a "release tab", keeps the cylinder from sliding all the way into the body of the lock. This tab can be removed with a standard key to allow the cylinder to be taken out and then it can be inserted.

If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you might be able 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 once you have restored the proper alignment. Test it for functionality. If your patio door lock is still difficult to use, it's likely that another component such as the latch or latch spring is worn or damaged and may require replacement.

Tighten the Screws

Locks for patio doors are susceptible to damage from regular use, extreme temperatures dust and dirt. These delicate parts can be damaged if not properly maintained, leading to your door to stop locking properly. Thankfully, most lock problems can be fixed easily with just a few simple maintenance steps.

The first thing to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust that might be present, and then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts operating smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases, they can draw dust and dirt which could cause issues.

Then, if your patio door has a security foot lock be sure that the foot lock is aligned with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will only require changing the screws that attach the foot lock to the frame of your patio door. To adjust the footlock simply loosen the screw using the help of a Robertson screwdriver and gently pull it upwards or downwards. After the adjustment is completed, tighten the screw securely.

When it comes time to repair the handle of a patio door the most frequent issue is misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This can be caused by normal wear and tear, or the latch could be set above or below where it should be.

Then, take off the old handle and locate the screws or bolts that hold it in the place. Keep in mind the bolts or screws since you'll need them to install the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle and place the new one on the inside of the door. Make sure that 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 that hold them in place.

Close and secure the patio door after you have made any adjustments that are required. If the door is properly aligned, it should open and close smoothly without the need for any additional force. If you're still experiencing difficulty then you may need to move the strike plate or latch or the lock's cylinder might be damaged and require to be replaced.

Replace the Latch

If your patio door locks do not work, it might be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can replace a lock themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door open and then removing the current lock from the interior side of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed into the door and jamb to discern the kind of lock you'll need purchase.

Before you install the new latch, loosen the screws securing the strike plate (the part of the lock that's positioned on the outside edge of the door frame) and then adjust it either horizontally or vertically to align it with the hole in the door jamb. Once you've repositioned the strike plate, secure it in position and tighten the screws.

Once all the components of your patio door are repositioned or replaced, reassemble and secure them as instructed by the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch. Make sure it fits correctly and is secured when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is now functioning as it should and able to provide you with the security and privacy you've come to appreciate from your home's doors.

Like other components of your home must be aligned properly to work effectively. Over time, temperatures cold, dirt and debris can cause hinges and door frame to shift. If these parts aren't aligned it's like trying to insert a key in the wrong keyhole: It just doesn't work. You can fix the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these easy steps. Do yourself a big pat on the back for taking on the task and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're sure you'll not have any issues opening or closing your patio door. Have fun! We're here for you if there are any questions or concerns.