Are You Tired Of Repair Patio Door Lock? 10 Sources Of Inspiration That'll Revive Your Passion How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A secure patio door is vital to home security. click the up coming post can be a hassle if your door is difficult to lock.

A stubborn lock can be caused by misalignment, or even wear and wear and tear. It may be possible to restore the lock's function by adjusting or lubricating the lock. If these solutions don't work you can replace both the mortise and handle.

Clean and Lubricate

A door lock can become hard to open and close over time due to dirt, dust and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication routine will keep your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving you money on repair bills and allowing your door to reach its maximum lifespan.

In the beginning, you'll need to clean the lock the cylinder. To do this, use spray cans of penetrating oil such as WD-40. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole, and then rotate the key to distribute it. Avoid using household oil or other solvents which could damage your locks. Spray a bit on the key.

After cleaning your lock's cylinder, it is time to lubricate. You can apply an oil spray made of silicone or a dry lubricant like graphite powder. Graphite powder lasts for a long time and doesn't swell up like liquid lubricants do, so it's a great option for lubricating locks that stick. Silicone sprays are able to endure temperatures of minus 0 degrees and are resistant to water. However, they may need multiple coats in order to be efficient.

You can also apply sprays for de-icing specially made for cold weather and will lift frost and ice off the lock mechanism. A few coats of this will allow your lock to unlock and then lock more easily.

The climate will determine how often you should belubricating locks. A coastal location exposes your door to salty air and cause corrosion, and temperature fluctuations can also influence the efficiency of your lock. The standard rule of thumb is to grease your locks twice per year or more often if you live in a region that has extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door continues to function properly for long time to come.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock isn't functioning correctly, it could indicate that one or more of the components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair of a defective patio door lock can prevent any further damage and ensure 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 inside of the lock to find signs of damage or misalignment. The patio door locks may expand or contract depending on the weather, and they might even shift with time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to misalign and cause problems when closing or opening the door.

Then, check the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder might be difficult to open and could cause damage to the cam, latch springs 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, you might need to remove the cylinder to find the cause.

If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the lock body you can loosen it by unscrewing a flat screw inside the cylinder's faceplate. This screw will allow you rotate the cylinder, and it could also help restore alignment.

Examine the cylinder for a tiny tab that can move up and down using the key, generally towards the very end. This tiny clip, also called a "release Tab" is what stops the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. This tab can be moved back with a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed and then returned.

If the cylinder of your lock has become stuck it is possible to restore alignment by rotating the cylinder until the latch bolt is engaged with the strike plate. The handle or knob may then be pushed and withdrawn. After you have restored the proper alignment, you can reassemble the lock and test it for functionality. If your patio door lock remains difficult to use, it's likely that a different component, such as the latch spring or latch is damaged or worn out and may require replacement.

Lock the Screws


Over time, frequent use temperatures, cold and hot weather dust, dirt, and can take their toll on patio door locks. If they are not properly taken care of, these delicate parts can wear down and cause your door to not lock properly. Thankfully, most lock problems are easily fixable with a few simple maintenance steps.

The first thing you need to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to clean any dirt or dust that might be present, and dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can help keep moving parts running smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, they could attract dust and debris which could cause problems.

Then, if your patio door has a foot lock that is secure, make sure the lock is aligned with the strike plate. In most cases, this will require adjusting the screws that secure the foot lock to the patio door frame. Remove the screw using the Robertson screwdriver, and gently move it upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock as required. After the adjustment is completed, tighten the screw.

When it comes to repairing the handle on a patio door, the most common problem is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This can be caused by everyday wear and tear, or it could simply be due to the fact that the latch is positioned higher or lower than it ought to be.

Then, take out the old handle and locate the bolts or screws that are holding it in the place. Be sure to keep track of these since you will require them when installing the new handle. Remove the old spindle and slide the new one into place on the inside of the door. Make sure that it is aligned properly with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Once the new spindle is installed then reinstall the handles on the exterior and interior, making sure that they are properly aligned with the screws or bolts that hold them in place.

Close and secure the patio door after you have made any necessary adjustments. If everything is in alignment, the door will open and close smoothly without additional force. If you're still experiencing difficulty, you might need to adjust the latch or strike plate or the lock cylinder could be damaged and need to be replaced.

Replace the latch

If your patio door locks still not working, it could be time to replace the lock. Most homeowners can change the lock themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door 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 into both the door and the door jamb so that you can discern the type of lock you'll need to purchase.

Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws that secure the strike plate. This is the part of the lock that is positioned on the edges of the door's frame. Adjust it either horizontally or in an upward direction to align it with holes for the latch. After you've repositioned your strike plate, screw it back into its place and tighten the screws.

When all the components of your patio door are relocated or replaced, reassemble and secure them according to the instructions given by the manufacturer. After you've completed the process, test the latch. Make sure it is fitted correctly and that it is able to latch when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock has been put in place correctly and is ready to provide the security and privacy that you've come to expect from.

Patio doors, like other parts of your house must be aligned correctly to function efficiently. Over time, cold and hot weather, dirt and debris, and other factors can cause hinges, door frame and locking mechanism to shift slightly. When these elements are misaligned it's like trying to fit a key in the wrong keyhole and it doesn't work. It is possible to fix a problem which seemed impossible by following these easy steps. Do yourself a big pat on the back for tackling the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We'll bet you won't have any more trouble opening or closing the door from now on out. Best of luck! We're here to help if you have any concerns or questions.