How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A safe patio door track repair door is essential for home security. It can be frustrating when it isn't easy to lock.

In most instances, a lock that is difficult to open is the result of misalignment or simple wear and tear. Lubricating the lock, or adjusting its position can help to restore its function. If these troubleshooting methods aren't working, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.

Clean and Lubricate

A door lock may be difficult to open and close over time due to dirt, dust and grime. A regular cleaning and lubrication routine will keep your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving you money on repair patio door bills and helping your door reach its full lifespan.

The first step in the process is to clean your lock's the 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 distribute the oil. Do not use solvents like household oil or other, as they can damage your locks. Spray a bit on the key.

When your lock's cylinder is clean and lubricated, it's time to apply. You can use dry lubricants such as graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite powder is long-lasting and doesn't attract dust like liquid lubricants, so it's an excellent choice for lubricating sticky locks. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand moist and freezing temperatures, but may require several coats to be effective.

You can also use a de-icer spray, which is specifically designed for cold weather. It will melt frost and ice off the lock mechanism. A couple of sprays will aid your lock to unlock and then re-lock more easily.

The environment will determine how often you should lubricate locks. A location with a coastline will expose your door to salty air and lead to corrosion. Temperature fluctuations can also influence how well your lock works. It is recommended to regularly lubricate your locks at least once every year, or more frequently in areas with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door will function as it should for many the years to come.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock doesn't perform as it should there's a chance that one or more of its components could be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and timely repairs of a faulty lock on your patio door can stop further damage and increase the security of your doors. You can repair the patio door that is locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism, or replacing the lock cylinder.

Start by checking the exterior and the inside of the lock to determine if there are any signs of damage or misalignment. Locks for patio doors can expand or contract with the weather, and could shift over time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to be misaligned and cause issues when opening or closing the door.

Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. A corroded or blocked cylinder can be difficult to open and may eventually cause damage to the lock pins, cam, or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't simple to insert, you might be able of removing any obstructions with 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 hasn't been screwed into the lock body you can loosen it by removing the screw that is flat inside the cylinder's faceplate. Loosening this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could help to restore alignment.

Look for a small tab that moves along with the key. It is usually near the end. This small clip, also known as a "release Tab" is what stops the cylinder from sliding patio door repair into the lock body completely. The tab can be removed with a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed, then returned.

If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you may be able restore proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate, and the handle or knob can be pushed in and pulled out. Reassemble the lock after you have restored alignment. Check it out for its functionality. If the lock on your patio door isn't working, it is likely that a different component, such as the latch spring or latch needs to be replaced.

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 parts can be damaged if they are not maintained properly, causing your door to not lock properly. Most lock problems are easily repaired with a few easy 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 then dry the parts thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving components functioning smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants that contain oil bases, they could attract dust and debris that can lead to further issues.

Next, if your local patio door repairs door is equipped with a foot lock that is secure ensure that the foot lock is properly aligned with the strike plate. In the majority of cases, this will require changing the screws that attach the foot lock to the patio door frame. Remove the screw using the Robertson screwdriver, and gently move it up or down to adjust the foot lock as needed. After the adjustment is completed then tighten the screw.

When it comes to fixing the handle on a patio door, the most common problem involves misalignment between the strike plate and the latch. This could be caused by normal wear and tear, or the latch could be placed above or below where it should be.

Then, take out the handle from the old one and locate the bolts or screws holding it in place. Keep in mind the bolts or screws since you'll need them to install the new handle. Then, you can remove the old spindle and then slide the new spindle into place on the inside of the door, ensuring that it is aligned with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Install the exterior and interior handles once the spindle has been installed. Make sure that they're properly aligned with the screws or bolts that hold them in place.

Close and lock the patio door after you have made any adjustments that are required. If everything is in alignment, the door should open and close without any additional force. If you're still having trouble then you may need to reposition the strike plate or latch or the lock cylinder may be damaged and must be replaced.

Replace the latch

If your patio door locks are not working, it may be time to replace the lock. The replacement of a lock is a moderately easy home improvement task that many homeowners can do themselves. Start by sliding the patio doors all the way out and unscrewing your existing lock from the inside of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed to the door and jamb to get a sense for what kind of lock you'll have to purchase.

Before installing the new latch, loosen the screws securing the strike plate (the part of the lock that's set on the outside of the door frame) and then adjust it vertically or horizontally to align it with the hole in the jamb of the door. After you've adjusted the latch plate then tighten the screws and fix it with screws.

After all components are repositioned or modified, assemble and secure the patio door according to the instructions of the manufacturer. After you've completed the process, test the latch. Check to see if it fits correctly and that it is able to latch when the door is closed. If it does the lock will be able to latch onto the door. If it does, your patio door lock is now working just as it should and is able to provide you with the security and privacy you've come to expect from your doors.

Patio doors, like other areas of your home must be aligned correctly to function efficiently. Over time, temperatures and cold weather dirt and debris and other factors can cause the hinges, door frame and the locking mechanism to shift. Misaligned hinges, door frames, and locking mechanisms are similar to trying to put keys in the wrong keyhole. It's not working. By following these easy steps, you can fix the issue that may have been thought to be impossible to fix. Give yourself a pat on the back for tackling the task and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We bet that you'll have no issues opening or closing your patio door. Good luck! We're here to help if you have any concerns or questions.