Are You Responsible For A Repair Patio Door Lock Budget? 10 Very Bad Ways To Invest Your Money
How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A safe patio door is a vital element of home security. When yours is difficult to lock, it could be frustrating.
A locked that isn't working properly could be caused by misalignment or simply wear and wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or changing its position can aid in restoring its functionality. If these solutions 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. Regular cleaning and lubrication could aid in preventing your security device from becoming stiff or stuck. This will save you money on repair costs and prolong the life of your door.
In the beginning, you'll need to clean the lock cylinder. Use WD-40 or a similar penetrating spray to do this. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole and then turn the key to spread it. Avoid using household solvents or other oils which could harm your locks, and make sure to spray a bit on the key itself as well.
After cleaning your lock's cylinder, it's time to lubricate. You can apply a silicone spray or dry lubricant like graphite powder. Graphite is a long-lasting lubricant that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid lubricants. It's an excellent choice for lubricating locks. Silicone sprays are able to be able to withstand temperatures that are below freezing and are resistant to water. However, they might need multiple coats in order to be effective.
You can also use a de-icer spray specially designed for colder weather and will loosen ice and frost from the lock mechanism. This will help you unlock your lock and relock it more easily.
How often you need to lubricate your locks will depend on the environmental conditions. The location of your door will impact its performance. A location that is near the ocean can expose it to salty air which could cause corrosion. It is recommended that you ensure that your locks are lubricated at least two times every year, or more frequently in areas with 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 door lock isn't working properly, it could be that one or more of the components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair of a faulty patio door lock can avoid additional damage and ensure that your doors are safe. You can fix the patio door that is locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism, or replacing the lock cylinder.
Begin by inspecting the exterior and interior of the lock to find signs of damage or misalignment. Patio door locks can expand or contract with the weather, and might even shift with time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to become misaligned and cause problems when opening or closing the door.
Then, look over the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. An obstructed or corroded lock cylinder can 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 clear any obstructions by using a pair of tweezers and a lock. If the issue continues, you may need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to find 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 cylinder faceplate. This screw will let you rotate the cylinder, and could even aid in restoring the alignment.
Look over the cylinder for a tiny tab that moves up and down using the key, usually towards the very end. This small clip, sometimes called a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body in the entire way. This tab can be removed with a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed, then it can be inserted.
If the lock cylinder of yours is stuck, you may be able to restore proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt engages with the strike plate and the handle or knob can be pushed in and pulled out. Once you've restored the proper alignment, you can reassemble the lock and test its performance. If your patio door lock remains difficult to use, it's likely that a different component, such as the latch or latch spring is damaged or worn out and will require replacement.
Lock the Screws
Patio door locks can be damaged by regular use, extremes of temperature dust and dirt. These delicate parts may wear out if not properly maintained, leading to your door to not lock properly. Most lock problems are easily repaired with a few easy steps.
Clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to clean any dirt or dust that might be found. Then, dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant will help keep moving parts running smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants that have oil bases as they can attract dust and other debris which could cause more issues.
If your patio door is equipped with an electronic footlock for security, make sure that the footlock is aligned correctly with the strike plate. In most cases, this will only require adjustment of the screws that hold the foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver and gently pry upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock as needed. Once the adjustment has been completed then tighten the screw.
The most frequent issue in the repair of patio door handles is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This could be due to normal wear and tear, or it could simply be that the latch is set higher or lower than it ought to be.
Begin by removing the handle, and then locate the screws or bolts which hold it in place. Keep track of the screws or bolts, because you will need them to install the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle, and then slide the new spindle into place on the side of the door, making sure that it is in alignment with the holes in the exterior and interior handles. Reinstall the exterior and interior handles once the spindle has been installed. Make sure that they are aligned properly with the screws or bolts holding them in place.
Close and lock the patio door once you have made any adjustments that are required. If the door is properly aligned, it should open and shut smoothly without needing any additional force. If you still have problems it may be necessary to move your latch or strike plate or replace the lock cylinder.
Replace the Latch
If your patio door locks still aren't working, it could be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can replace the lock themselves. Start by sliding the patio door completely open and unscrewing the existing lock from the interior side of the door. Review the lock to determine the type of lock that you'll require.
Before installing the new latch take off the screws that secure the strike plate (the part of the lock that's positioned on the outside edge of the door frame) and adjust it vertically or horizontally to align it with the latch hole in the jamb in the door. After you've adjusted the latch plate you can tighten the screws, then screw it into place.
After all components have been moved or adjusted then assemble and secure the patio door in accordance with the instructions given by the manufacturer. When you're done testing the latch. Check to see if it fits correctly and that it is able to latch when the door is shut. If patio doors repairs near me does, your patio door lock is functioning as it should and can give you the security and privacy you've come appreciate from your home's doors.
Like other components of your home must be aligned correctly to function effectively. Over time, cold and hot weather, dirt and debris, and other factors can cause hinges, door frame and locking mechanism to shift slightly. The wrongly aligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are like trying to insert keys in the wrong keyhole. It's not working. By following these simple steps, you can fix a problem that might have been thought to be impossible to fix. Do yourself a big 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 issues opening or closing the door from now to the end. Have fun! We are here to assist if you need any assistance or have questions.