How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock A safe patio door is a crucial element of home security. If it becomes difficult to lock, it can be frustrating. A lock that is not working can be caused by misalignment or simply wear and wear and tear. It is possible to restore the lock's function by adjusting or lubricating it. If these solutions don't work you can replace both the mortise and handle. Clean and Lubricate Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open or close a door lock. Regular cleaning and lubrication will aid in preventing your security device from becoming stiff or stuck. This will help you save money on repair costs and prolong the lifespan of your door. The first step in the process is to clean your lock's cylinder. To do this, use a spray can of penetrating oil such as WD-40. Spray a small amount of it into the keyhole, then work the key into and out to distribute the oil. Avoid using household solvents or other oils that can damage your locks. Make sure to spray a little on the key itself. After cleaning your lock cylinder it is time to lubricate. You can apply a dry lubricant such as graphite powder or sprays of silicone. Graphite is a durable lubricant that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid lubricants. It's a great option for lubricating locks. Silicone sprays are water-resistant and can withstand moist and freezing temperatures, but might require multiple coats to be effective. You can also use a de-icer spray that is made for cold weather. It will remove frost and ice off the lock mechanism. This will allow you to unlock your lock and then relock it more easily. The climate will determine how often you need to belubricating locks. A location with a coastline exposes your door to salty air and cause corrosion, and temperature variations can impact the performance of your lock. The most common rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks twice per year, or more frequently when you live in an area with extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure that your patio door continues to perform as it should for long time to come. Reposition the Lock Cylinder If your patio door lock isn't working properly, it could mean that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair of a damaged patio door lock will prevent further damage and ensure that your doors are safe. To fix a locked or unlocked patio door, you can tighten loose screws or adjust the mechanism of the lock, or replace the lock cylinder. Begin by inspecting the exterior and the inside of the lock to determine if there are any signs of damage or misalignment. Patio door locks may expand or contract depending on the weather, and could shift over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to become misaligned and cause issues when closing or opening the door. Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder can be difficult to open and can eventually cause damage to the pins of the lock, cams, or latch springs. If the cylinder does not fit easily, you can clear any obstructions with a pair of tweezers and a lock. If the problem persists you might need to remove the cylinder to find the cause. If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed into the lock body, you can loosen it by uncrewing the screw that is flat inside the faceplate of the cylinder. Unscrewing this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could help to restore alignment. Look for the small tab that moves with the key. It is usually at the end. This tiny clip, referred to as a "release tab" is what keeps the cylinder from sliding into the body of the lock. This tab can be removed using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be taken out and then returned. If your lock cylinder is stuck, you can restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt contacts the strike plate. The knob or handle can then be pushed, and pulled back. Reassemble the lock once you have restored alignment. Test it to see if it works. If the lock on your patio door isn't working properly It is likely that a different component, such as the latch spring or latch needs to be replaced. Lock the Screws Locks for patio doors are susceptible to damage from regular usage, extreme temperatures, dirt and dust. If not properly maintained the delicate parts could get worn out and cause your door to fail to 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. Use a damp cloth 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 the moving parts operating smoothly and effectively. Avoid https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/southampton-patio-door-repairs-near-me/ with oil bases because they may attract dust and debris which could cause more problems. If your patio door is fitted with a security footlock, ensure that the footlock is properly aligned with the strike plate. Most of the time, this will require you to adjust the screws that hold your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. To adjust the foot lock simply loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver, and then gently push it upwards or downwards. Once the adjustment has been completed, tighten the screw. When it comes time to repair the handle of a patio door the most frequent issue involves misalignment between the strike plate and latch. This could be due to everyday wear and tear, or it could simply be that the latch is positioned higher or lower than it should be. Start by removing the old handle, then find the bolts or screws that hold it in place. Make sure to keep track of these since you will require them when installing the new handle. Next, remove the old spindle, and then slide the new one into position 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 in place, reinstall the interior and exterior handles, making sure that they are properly aligned with the bolts or screws that secure them. Close and lock the patio door once you have made any adjustments that are required. If the door is correctly aligned, it will open and close smoothly without the need for any additional force. If you're having difficulty it could be necessary to move the strike plate or latch or the lock cylinder could be damaged and must be replaced. Replace the Latch If your patio door locks still not working, it could be time to replace the lock. Installing a new lock is a moderately easy home improvement project that most homeowners can complete by themselves. Start by sliding the patio doors all the way out and then removing your existing lock on the interior of the door. Review the lock to determine the type of lock that you will need. Before you install the new latch, loosen the screws securing the strike plate (the part of the lock that's mounted on the outside of the door frame) and then adjust it vertically or horizontally to align it with the latch hole in the jamb of the door. Once you've repositioned the strike plate, secure it in its place and tighten the screws. After all components are repositioned or modified then assemble and secure the patio door as instructed by the manufacturer. When 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, your patio door lock has been put in place correctly and is now ready to give you the security and privacy you have come to expect. As with other parts of your home your patio doors also need to be aligned properly for them to function efficiently. Over time, temperature, cold, dirt, and debris can cause the hinges and door frame to shift. If these components are not aligned, it's like trying to insert a key in the wrong keyhole and it doesn't work. If you follow these steps, you can solve an issue that been thought to be impossible to fix. So, give yourself a pat on the back for tackling this task and reclaiming your patio door's lock position! We're sure you won't have any trouble opening or closing the door from here on. Have fun! We're here to assist should you require assistance or have questions.