3 Common Reasons Why Your Patio Door Lock Repair Isn't Working (And How To Fix It) Patio Door Lock Repairs

Over time, patio doors undergo wear and tear that could lead to lock malfunctions. There are a few easy steps you can follow to restore the security of your uPVC door.

If it's resetting the lock or cleaning the locking mechanism These simple fixes can make your home more secure.

Clean Repair My Windows And Doors are fantastic for bringing the outdoors inside and keeping out the elements. However they could pose risky for security when the lock isn't functioning properly. Over time, wear and tear, cold and hot weather dirt, and other debris can cause your patio door lock to become difficult to operate. With a little effort you can ensure that your lock for your patio door always functions in a proper manner.

It is important to first clean the patio door lock as well as all moving parts. This helps get rid of any grime and coatings that could be preventing the lock from functioning in the way it should. Begin by wiping down the moving parts of your patio door's lock with a damp, clean cloth. then use a scouring pad or rough damp cloth to scrub any hard-to-reach parts of the door and frame that are ingrained with dirt. Then, wipe the lock down using a dry towel to get rid of any remaining moisture. Allow it to air-dry before using it.

If you have an exterior door that is fitted with pin tumbler latch mechanisms, you can lubricate the lock by applying graphite powdered to the key or applying an lubricant based on Teflon such as WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This type of lubricant can be easy to apply and it doesn't dissolve as time passes. If you're unable to find the right lubricant for your lock, use a pencil with more of a thicker tip. Place the pencil into the lock, then shake it around to spread the graphite.

Regular maintenance is also required to keep the tracks of sliding patio doors free from dirt, dust and other debris. These tracks are especially susceptible to ice and snow, which can cause them to be stuck or jammed and make it difficult for your patio doors to open and close.

Sliding patio door track rails and rollers can be cleaned by removing dirty or damaged weather stripping, cleaning them, then replacing it. The rollers of patio doors can be cleaned and sprayed down with an oil that is nonstick.

Lubricate the moving parts


uPVC French doors, like sliding patios, are operated using 3 to 4, or occasionally 5 point locking mechanisms. They include the lock cylinder and handle that is operated with the key. These doors also need maintenance, including lubrication of the moving parts. This can be accomplished with a thin oil however, never WD40. It should be done every year, at a minimum.

If sagging hinges aren't a cause, the door could be skewed and catch or rubbing against the strike plate's hole in the frame. The solution is to remove the strike plate and then use an abrasive chisel, which will enlarge the mortise that it rests in. This allows the latch to fit correctly in the hole and prevents getting caught or rubbing against the frame.

Measure the width of the cylinder with a piece of book or wood that is able to fit into the space above the adjustment screw. The outer dimension is measured from the outside of the door to the center cylinder. The inner dimension is measured from the center adjustment screw until the end cylinder.

Check the lock's length

If your patio door latch isn't able to turn, even after cleaning and lubricating, it's possible that it's out of alignment with the strike plate hole. Make sure that your door is in a balanced position, and that the hinge screws are tight. In many cases, moving the strike plate upwards or downwards can solve the issue.

Most of the time, the issue occurs when the strike of the lock is too small for the latch to engage. In this situation you'll need to expand the hole using the hammer or chisel and then test the latch to make sure that it is able to engage the strike plate smoothly without rubbing against or landing on the frame of the door jamb.

Before you purchase a replacement lock, you should first determine what kind of mortise lock you have. This can be done by looking at the end faceplate and determining if it is square or round. Look at each screw hole on the existing lock, and note their size. This will enable you to find the replacement lock that has exactly the same size and fits into your existing hole.

You'll need to locate the mortise lock and examine it for any scratches, bends, or other damage that requires to be repaired. A badly damaged or bent latch is more likely break than one that's been frequently used, so be sure to replace the lock with a brand new one that is secure in the event you notice any signs of wear or damage.

Once you've decided on the kind of lock replacement you need It's time to begin the actual repair. The old spindle and handle should be removed from the doorway to the patio. Introduce the new handle. Start by installing the inside handle. Align it with the spindle, and then secure it into position using two screws or bolts. Install the exterior handle following the interior handle. After you've completed these steps check the handles to make sure they open and shut easily and that the latch works properly with the strikeplate.

Check the Door's Strike

The door latch and strike plate are the two parts of the lock that work to ensure that the latch locks the door. If these parts aren't aligned correctly, the latch won't latch the door properly. Fortunately, the issue is usually simple to fix.

Check the receiving holes of the strike plate to ensure they are clear of obstructions like dirt or plastic plugs. Then loosen the keeper screws that secure the strike plate in place and allow it to move vertically, but not separating it from the frame of the door. Adjust the strike plate so that it aligns its holes for receiving with the latch hooks of the door latch. After the strike plate is adjusted tighten all screws and test to see whether the door closes smoothly.

Door strike plates can be a bit difficult to access for homeowners with sliding patio doors, but they're essential to lock and unlock your door. These metal plates are located at the top and bottom jambs of the door where they support its latch. The door latch is inserted into this strike plate and creates the seal. If the strike plate is damaged, rusted, or not installed correctly, it may prevent the latch from locking the door securely.

The most common reason for a patio door lock to stick or not close is a misalignment between the latch and strike plate. The most effective way to test for this is by performing the "lipstick test." Rub some lipstick on the outside of the deadbolt, then put masking tape on it. The lipstick will leave an impression when you shut the door. This will reveal exactly where the latch joins the strike plate. If the mark is too low or high, you can easily alter the strike plate.

If your patio door locks for sliding aren't functioning properly they can help keep your home safe from burglars. You need to repair the issue as soon as you can. By following these easy steps, you'll be able to fix your patio door's lock and restore its functionality within a short time.