How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock A safe patio door is essential to ensure your home's security. If it is difficult to lock, it could be a nightmare. A lock that is not working can be caused by misalignment, or simply wear and tear. Lubricating the lock, or adjusting its position can aid in restoring its functionality. If these solutions aren't working, you can replace both the mortise and handle. Clean and Lubricate A door lock can be difficult to open and close over time due to dust, dirt and grime. A regular cleaning and lubrication routine can prevent your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving you money on repair bills and allowing your door to enjoy its maximum lifespan. To begin, you will need to clean the lock cylinder. To do this, use spray cans of penetrating oil, like WD-40. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole and then rotate the key to distribute it. Avoid using solvents like household oil or other which could damage your locks. Spray a little on the key. When your lock's cylinder is clean and lubricated, it's time to apply. You can apply a silicone spray or dry lubricant like graphite powder. Graphite powder lasts for a long time and doesn't swell up like liquid lubricants, so it's a great option to lubricate locks that are sticky. Silicone sprays are water resistant and can withstand moist and freezing temperatures, however it may require several coats to be effective. You can also apply sprays to de-icer your lock that is designed for cold weather and will lift frost and ice off the lock mechanism. This will enable you to unlock your lock, and then unlock it with ease. The environment will determine how often you should belubricating locks. A location near the coast will expose your door to salty air, which can cause corrosion, and temperature fluctuations can also affect the performance of your lock. The most common rule of thumb is to grease your locks twice per year and more frequently when you live in a region that has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure your patio door continues to function as it should for many the years to come. Reposition the Lock Cylinder If your patio door lock isn't working correctly, it could indicate that one or more of the components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of a damaged lock on your patio door can help prevent further damage and guarantee the security of your doors. You can repair a patio door that is locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder. Start by examining the exterior and interior of the lock to find signs of damage or misalignment. The majority of patio door locks expand and contract in warm or cold weather, and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement may cause the locking mechanism to misalign and cause issues when closing or opening the door. Then, check the lock cylinder to find any obstructions in the keyway hole. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder may be difficult to open and could eventually cause damage to the pins, cams, or latch springs. If the cylinder does not fit easily, you can remove any obstructions by using a pair of tweezers and a lock. If the issue continues then you'll need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to locate the source of the obstruction. If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the body of the lock, you can loosen it by uncrewing an elongated screw within the faceplate of the cylinder. Loosening this screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and could help restore proper alignment. Examine the cylinder for a small tab that can move up and down using the key, generally towards the end. This little clip, also known as a "release tab" is what keeps the cylinder from sliding all the way into the body of the lock. This tab can be removed using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed and then reinserted. If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you may be able restore proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate, and the knob or handle can be pushed in and pulled out. Once you have restored the proper alignment, put back together the lock and check its functioning. If https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/stockport-patio-door-repairs-near-me/ remains difficult to use, it's likely that another component such as the latch spring or latch is damaged or worn out and may require replacement. Tighten the Screws Over time, regular use as well as cold and hot weather dust, dirt and even dirt can cause damage to patio door locks. If they are not properly taken care of, these delicate parts can get worn out and cause your door to fail to lock properly. Most lock issues can be fixed with a few simple steps. The first thing to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a dampened cloth to get rid of any dirt or dust that may be present. Then, dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can keep moving parts running smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, however they can draw dust and dirt which can cause further problems. If your patio door comes with an electronic footlock for security, make sure that the footlock is aligned correctly with the strike plate. In most instances, this will require adjustment of the screws that hold the foot lock to the frame of your patio door. Unlock the screw with a Robertson screwdriver, and gently pry upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock if needed. Once the adjustment is complete you can tighten the screw. The most common problem when it comes to fixing patio door handles is misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This can be caused by the wear and tear of everyday use, or it could simply be that the latch is set higher or lower than it should be. Then, take out the handle from the old one and locate the screws or bolts that are holding it in place. Keep in mind the screws or bolts, because you will need them to attach the new handle. Then, remove the old spindle and slide the new one into place on the interior of the door. Make sure that it is aligned properly with the holes in both the exterior and interior handle. Reinstall the exterior and interior handles once the spindle is been installed. Make sure that they're properly aligned with the screws or bolts holding them in place. After you've made the necessary adjustments to your patio door, make sure to test it by closing and locking the door. If everything is in proper alignment, the door will be able to open and close smoothly, without additional force. If you still have problems you may have to move your latch or strike plate or replace the lock cylinder. Replace the Latch If your patio door locks still don't work, it may be time to replace the latch. Replacing a lock is a fairly simple home improvement project that most homeowners can tackle themselves. Start by sliding the patio doors completely out and then removing your existing lock from the inside of the door. Examine the lock you have to determine the type of lock that you will need. Before installing the new latch, loosen screws that secure the strike plate. This is the portion of the lock that is positioned on the edges of the door's frame. Adjust it horizontally or in the vertical direction to align it with the latch hole. After you've adjusted the latch plate you can tighten the screws, then screw it into place. When all the components of your patio door are relocated or replaced, reassemble and secure them according to the instructions given by the manufacturer. When you're done, check the latch to ensure that it fits and is able to catch the latch's hasp when your door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is working as it should and able to provide the security and privacy you've come to expect from your doors. Like other areas of your home should be properly aligned to function efficiently. Over time, cold and hot weather, dirt and debris, and other factors can cause the hinges, door frame, and locking mechanism to shift. If these parts aren't aligned, it's like trying to fit a key in the wrong hole for a key it won't work. It is possible to fix the issue that seemed to be impossible by following these easy steps. Do yourself a big pat on your back for tackling the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We bet that you'll not have any issues opening or closing your patio door. Best of luck! We're here for you if there are any concerns or questions.