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How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A secure patio door is a vital element of home security. If it is difficult to lock, it could be a nightmare.

A locked that isn't working properly could be caused by misalignment or even wear and tear. It may be possible to restore the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these methods of troubleshooting don't work, 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 the door lock. Regular cleaning and lubrication could help prevent your security device becoming stiff or stuck. This will help you save money on repair costs and will extend the lifespan of your door.

In the beginning, you'll need to clean the lock the cylinder. To do this, you'll need a spray can of penetrating oil, such as WD-40. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole and then rotate the key to spread it. Do not use solvents like household oil or other which could damage your locks. Spray a small amount on the key.

When your lock's cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. You can apply dry lubricants like graphite powder or sprays of silicone. Graphite is a lubricant that lasts for a long time that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid lubricants. It's an excellent choice for lubricating locks. 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 use a de-icer spray, which is specifically designed for cold weather. It will melt ice and frost on the mechanism of your lock. A couple of sprays will aid your lock unlock and then lock again easily.

How often you have to lubricate your locks will rely on environmental factors. A coastal location exposes your door to salty air and lead to corrosion, and temperature fluctuations can also affect how well your lock works. It is recommended that you regularly lubricate your locks at least twice every year, or more frequently when you live in an area with severe weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door will function as it should for many years to come.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock does not work properly it could be because one or more of its parts could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair of a defective patio door lock will prevent further damage and ensure that your doors are secure. To fix a locked or unlocked patio door, tighten loose screws and adjust the lock mechanism or replace the lock cylinder.

Start by checking the exterior and the inside of the lock to see whether there are signs of damage or misalignment. The majority of patio door locks expand and contract in temperatures that are cold or hot and may shift slightly over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to become misaligned and cause issues when closing or opening the door.

Then, look over the lock cylinder for obstructions in the keyway hole. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder may be difficult to open and may eventually cause damage to the pins, cams, or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't easy to insert, you might be able to remove any obstruction using a pair of tweezers, or a picklock. If the issue continues then you'll need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it in order to identify the cause of the obstruction.

If the lock cylinder is not been secured to the body of the lock it can be removed by unscrewing the screw on the cylinder faceplate. This screw lets you rotate the cylinder, and may even help restore the proper alignment.

Look for the small tab that moves along with the key. It is usually close to the end. This small clip, sometimes called a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body in the entire way. A standard key can move this tab back to allow the cylinder to be released and allow it to be removed and put back in.

If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you may be able to restore proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate and the knob or handle can be pushed in and out. Reassemble the lock after you have restored proper alignment. Test it to see if it works. If your patio door lock is difficult to use, it's a sign that another component such as the latch spring or latch is damaged or worn out and will need to be replaced.

Lock the Screws

Over time, regular use as well as cold and hot weather dust, dirt, and can cause damage to patio door locks. If not properly maintained, these delicate parts can wear out and cause your door to not lock properly. Most lock issues can be fixed with a few simple steps.

Clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to clean any dirt or dust that might be present. 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 with oil bases since they could attract dust and other debris which could cause more problems.

If your patio door is fitted with an electronic footlock for security, make sure that the footlock is aligned properly with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will require adjusting the screws that secure the foot lock to the frame of your patio door. To adjust the footlock you need to loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver and gently pull it up or down. Once the adjustment has been completed you can tighten the screw.

The most common problem when it comes to repairing patio door handles is the misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This can be caused by normal wear and tear, or it could simply be that the latch is placed higher or lower than it ought to be.

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Then, take out the old handle and find the bolts or screws holding it in the first place. Keep track of the bolts or screws because you will need them to attach the new handle. Next, remove the old spindle, and then slide the new spindle into the door on the side of the door, ensuring that it is properly aligned with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Reinstall the exterior and interior handles once the spindle has been installed. Make sure they are aligned properly with the bolts or screws holding them in place.

After you've made any needed adjustments to your patio door, be sure to test it by locking and closing the door. If the door is properly aligned, it will open and shut without needing any additional force. If you still have problems you may have to reposition your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.

Replace the latch

If your patio door locks still don't work, it may be time to replace the latch. The replacement of a lock is a fairly simple home improvement project that most homeowners can complete themselves. Start by sliding the patio door completely open and then removing the current lock from the interior side of the door. Be sure to study the way in which the current lock is screwed to the door and the door jamb so that you can discern the type of lock you'll need to purchase.

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

Once http://wiki.iurium.cz/index.php?title=gilbertbak6858 of your patio door have been relocated or replaced, reassemble and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. After you're done, test the latch to ensure that it is in place and fits the latch hasp when the door is closed. If it does, then your patio door lock is installed correctly and is ready to provide the security and privacy that you have come to expect.

Like other areas of your home should be properly aligned to function effectively. Over time, cold and hot weather dirt and debris and other elements can cause the frames, hinges, and the locking mechanism to shift. The wrongly aligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are like trying to put keys into the wrong keyhole. It doesn't work. You can fix an issue that appeared impossible by following these simple steps. So go ahead and give yourself an award for tackling this challenge and regaining your patio door's locked position! We bet that you'll not have any issues opening or closing your patio door. Best of luck! We're here to help if you have any concerns or questions.