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Repair Patio Door Lock: The Ugly Truth About Repair Patio Door Lock
How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

A safe patio door is a crucial element of home security. It can be frustrating when it isn't easy to lock.

In most instances, a locked that is not working is the result of misalignment or simple wear and tear. It may be possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these troubleshooting methods fail, you may replace the mortise lock and handle.

Clean and Lubricate

Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open and close doors. Regular cleaning and lubrication will aid in preventing your security device from becoming stiff or stuck. This will save you money on repair bills and extend the life of your door.

The first step in the process is to clean your lock cylinder. To do this, use a spray bottle of penetrating oil, such as WD-40. Spray a small amount into the keyhole and work the key into and out to distribute the oil. Do not use household oil or other solvents, as they can damage your locks. Spray a little on the key.

After cleaning your lock cylinder it's time to lubricate. You can use dry lubricants like graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite is a durable lubricant that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid lubricants. patio door repairs Repair My Windows And Doors 's a great option to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays can be able to withstand temperatures that are below freezing and are resistant to water. However, they may require multiple coats to be effective.

You can also use sprays to de-icer your lock that is designed for cold weather and will remove frost and ice from the lock mechanism. A couple of sprays will help your lock to unlock and then lock more easily.

The environment will determine the frequency at which you should lubricate locks. The location of your door will affect its performance. A location that is near the ocean can expose it to salty air which could cause corrosion. The general rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks at least twice a year and more frequently when you live in a region that has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can save the cost of repairs and ensure that they continue to function in a good way for a long time.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock does not function properly it could be because one or more of its components may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of a damaged lock on your patio door will prevent further damage and ensure the security of your doors. You can fix doors that are locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, altering the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder.


Start by examining the exterior and interior of the lock for signs of damage or misalignment. Locks for patio doors can expand or contract with the weather, and may even shift over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to stop aligning properly and lead to problems with opening or closing the door.

Next, examine the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. A corroded or blocked cylinder is difficult to open and may eventually cause damage to the pins of the lock, 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 persists, you may have to remove the cylinder in order to locate the source.

If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed into the body of the lock, you can loosen it by unscrewing an elongated screw within the cylinder faceplate. This screw lets you rotate the cylinder, and could even aid in restoring the alignment.

Check the cylinder for a tiny tab that moves up and down with the key, usually towards the very end. This small clip, also called a "release Tab" will stop the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. A standard key will move this tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and put back in.

If your lock cylinder 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 can then be pushed, and withdrawn. Reassemble the lock after you have restored alignment. Test it for functionality. If your patio door lock is still difficult to use, it's a sign that a component, like the latch spring or latch is damaged or worn and may require replacement.

Make sure you tighten the Screws

The locks on patio doors are susceptible to damage from regular use, extremes of temperature, dirt and dust. If they are not properly taken care of the delicate parts could get worn out and cause your door to fail to lock properly. Fortunately, most lock issues can be easily fixed with just a few simple maintenance steps.

The first thing you have to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to get rid of any dust or dirt that might be present. Then, dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts operating smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases,, as these can draw dust and dirt that can lead to further problems.

Next, if your patio door is equipped with an electronic foot lock for security, make sure the foot lock is aligned with the strike plate. In most cases this will only require you to adjust the screws that hold your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Loosen the screw using the Robertson screwdriver, and gently pry upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock as required. Once the adjustment has been completed then tighten the screw.

The most common problem when it comes to fixing patio door handles is the misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This could be caused by normal wear and tear, or the latch could be placed lower or higher than it should be.

Begin by removing the handle, and then locate the bolts or screws which hold it in place. Be sure to keep track of these since you will require them when installing the new handle. Remove the old spindle and place the new one on the interior of the door. Make sure it is aligned properly with the holes in both the exterior and interior handle. Once the new spindle has been installed then reinstall the handles for both exterior and interior, making sure that they are in alignment with the screws or bolts which hold them in place.

Once you've made any necessary adjustments to your patio door, make sure to test it by locking and closing the door. If the door is properly aligned, it should open and close smoothly without the need for any additional force. If you're still having trouble, you might need to reposition the latch or strike plate or the lock's cylinder might be damaged and must be replaced.

Replace the Latch

If your patio door locks don't work, it may be time to replace the latch. Most homeowners can replace locks themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door all the way open and removing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Carefully study how the existing lock is screwed to the door and jamb so that you can discern the kind of lock you'll need to purchase.

Before installing the new latch, loosen screws that hold the strike plate. This is the portion of the lock that is positioned on the edges of the door's frame. Adjust it either horizontally or in the vertical direction to align it with the holes for the latch. After you've adjusted the latch plate then tighten the screws and fix it with screws.

After all components have been moved or adjusted, assemble and secure the patio door in accordance with the instructions given by the manufacturer. Once you're finished testing the latch. Check to see if it fits properly and catches the latch when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is installed correctly and is able to provide the security and privacy you've come to expect from.

Patio doors, like other areas of your home, need to be aligned correctly to function efficiently. Over time, temperatures cold, dirt and debris can cause hinges and the frame of the door to shift. Incorrectly aligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are similar to trying to put a key in the wrong keyhole. It's not working. If you follow these steps, you can solve an issue that seemed unfixable. You should pat yourself on the back for taking on the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're sure you'll not have any issues opening or closing your patio door once more. Best of luck! We're here to help if you have any questions or concerns.

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