How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A safe patio door is a vital element of home security. It can be frustrating when your door is difficult to lock.

In most cases, a stubborn lock is caused by an incorrect alignment or simply wear and tear. It may be possible to restore the lock's function by adjusting or lubricating it. If these troubleshooting techniques aren't working, you can replace both the mortise and handle.

Clean and Lubricate

Over time, dust, dirt 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 maximum lifespan.

The first step in the process is to clean your lock cylinder. To do this, use a spray bottle of penetrating oil such as WD-40. Spray a small amount of oil into the keyhole and then turn the key to spread it. Do not use solvents like household oil or other, as they can damage your locks. Spray a small amount on the key.

After cleaning your lock cylinder, it is time to lubricate. You can use a silicone spray or dry lubricant like graphite powder. Graphite powder lasts for a long time and doesn't swell up like liquid lubricants do, which is why it's an excellent choice for lubricating locks that stick. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand moist and freezing temperatures, but may require several coats to be effective.

You can also use sprays for de-icing, which is specifically made for cold weather and can loosen ice and frost from the lock mechanism. A few coats of this will allow your lock to unlock and then lock more easily.

how to repair patio door lock often you have to oil your locks will be contingent on environmental factors. A coastal location exposes your door to salty air and cause corrosion, and temperature variations can influence how to repair tilt and slide patio door well your lock works. It is recommended to ensure that your locks are lubricated at least two times a year or more often if your area has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks will save costs on repairs, and ensure that they continue to function properly for many years.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio doors repair near me door lock isn't operating correctly, it could indicate that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely Repair Patio Door Lock of a damaged patio door lock can avoid any further damage and ensure your doors are secure. To fix a locked or non-locked patio door, tighten loose screws and adjust the lock mechanism or replace the lock cylinder.

Begin by inspecting the exterior and interior of the lock for signs of damage or misalignment. Often, patio door locks expand and contract in warm or cold weather, and can shift slightly over time. This slight shift can cause the locking mechanism to stop aligning correctly and lead to problems with opening or closing the door.

Examine the keyway hole on the lock cylinder. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder could be difficult to access, and can cause damage to the latch springs, cam, or the lock pins. If the cylinder does not fit easily, you can clear any obstructions using a pair picklocks and tweezers. If the issue persists then you'll need to remove the cylinder and disassemble it to locate the cause of the obstruction.

If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed into the body of the lock, you can loosen it by unscrewing a flat screw inside the cylinder faceplate. By loosening this screw, it will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could help restore proper alignment.

Look for an elongated tab that is movable with the key. It's usually located at the end. This tiny clip, referred to as a "release tab" is what keeps the cylinder from sliding all the way into the body of the lock. A standard key can move the tab back to allow the cylinder to be released and allow it to be removed and reinserted.

If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you might be able to restore proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt connects with the strike plate, and the handle or knob can be pushed in and pulled out. Reassemble the lock once you have restored alignment. Check it out for its functionality. If your patio door lock isn't working, it is likely that another component like the latch or latch spring requires replacement.

Lock the Screws

Over time, the use of regular, hot and cold weather, dirt, and dust can take their toll on patio door locks. These delicate components can wear out if not properly maintained, leading to your door to not lock properly. Most lock issues can be solved with just a few steps.

The first thing to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a dampened cloth to remove any dirt or dust that might be found. Then, dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts operating smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases since they could draw dust and dirt and cause additional problems.

If your patio door is fitted with a security footlock, ensure that the footlock is properly aligned with the strike plate. In most cases this will require you to adjust the screws that attach your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. To adjust the footlock simply loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver, and then gently push it up or down. Once the adjustment is complete you can tighten the screw.

The most frequent issue when it comes to fixing patio door handles is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This can be caused by wear and tear, or the latch may be positioned above or below where it is supposed to be.

Then, take out the handle from the old one and find the bolts or screws that are holding it in place. Be sure to keep track of these as you will need them when installing the new handle. Then, remove the old spindle and place the new one into place on the inside of the door. Make sure that it is properly aligned with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Once the new spindle is installed then reinstall the handles for both exterior and interior and ensure that they are aligned with the bolts or screws which hold them in place.

Close and lock the patio door once you have made any necessary adjustments. If the door is properly aligned, it will open and shut smoothly without needing any additional force. If you're still having trouble then you may need to move the strike plate or latch, or the lock cylinder may be damaged and must be replaced.

Replace the Latch

If your patio door locks do not work, it might be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can change locks themselves. Start by sliding the patio doors all the way out and unscrewing your existing lock from the inside of the door. Study the existing lock to determine the type of lock that you'll need.

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

Once all the components of your patio door have been repositioned or replaced, reassemble and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. After you're done, test the latch to make sure that it fits and catches the latch hasp when the door is closed. If it does then your patio door lock is now working exactly as it should, and is will provide the security and privacy you've come appreciate from your home's doors.

Like other areas of your home the patio doors have to be properly aligned in order for them to work efficiently. Over time, heat cold, dirt and debris can cause the hinges and door frame to shift. Misaligned hinges, door frames, and locking mechanisms are like trying to insert keys into the wrong keyhole. It doesn't work. You can fix an issue that appeared impossible by following these easy steps. Give yourself a pat on the back for taking on the task and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're betting you won't face any trouble opening or closing the door from now on. Have fun! We're here if you have any concerns or questions.