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How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock
A secure patio door is vital to home security. It can be difficult when it isn't easy to lock.
A stubborn lock can be the result of misalignment or even simple wear and wear and tear. Lubricating the lock, or adjusting its position could help restore its function. If these solutions aren't working, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
A door lock may become difficult to open and close due to dust, dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication can help prevent your security device becoming stiff or stuck. This will help you save money on repair bills and extend the longevity of your door.
To begin, you'll need to clean the lock's cylinder. Make use of WD-40 or an equivalent penetrating spray accomplish this. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole and then turn the key to distribute it. Avoid using household solvents or other oils that could damage your locks. Make sure to spray a bit on the key itself.
After your lock cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. You can apply a silicone spray or dry lubricant like graphite powder. Graphite is a lubricant that lasts for a long time that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid oils. It's a great choice to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays are able to endure temperatures of minus 0 degrees and are resistant to water. However, they might require multiple coats to be effective.
You can also apply a de-icer spray, which is specifically made for cold weather and will loosen ice and frost from the lock mechanism. A few coats of this will allow your lock to unlock and then re-lock more easily.
The environment will determine the frequency at which you should belubricating locks. A coastal location exposes your door to salty air and lead to corrosion, and temperature variations can influence the efficiency of your lock. The most common rule of thumb is to grease your locks at least twice a year, or more frequently when you live in a region that has extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks will save costs on repairs, and ensure that it will continue to function in a good way for a long time.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock doesn't work properly, one or more of its parts may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair of a defective patio door lock can avoid further damage and ensure that your doors are secure. You can repair the patio door that is locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, altering the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder.
Begin by looking at the exterior and the inside of the lock to see whether there are signs of damage or misalignment. Patio door locks may expand or contract depending on the weather and could shift over time. This slight shift can cause the locking mechanism to not align properly and can cause issues when opening or closing the door.
Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. A corroded or obstructed lock cylinder could be difficult to access, and could cause damage to the cam, latch springs, or lock pins. If the cylinder isn't easy to insert, you may be able to remove any obstructions with the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the problem persists, you may need to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to locate the root of the problem.
If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the lock body, you can loosen it by removing the screw that is flat inside the cylinder faceplate. Unscrewing this screw will allow you to move the cylinder around and could aid in restoring alignment.
Examine the cylinder for a little tab that can move upwards and downwards with the key, usually towards the very end. This small clip, also called a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body all the way. The tab can be removed with a standard key to allow the cylinder to be taken out and then returned.
If your lock cylinder is stuck, you may be able restore proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt connects with the strike plate, and the knob or handle can be pushed in and pulled out. Reassemble the lock after you have restored alignment. Test it for functionality. If the lock on your patio door isn't working it's likely that an additional component such as the latch or latch spring needs to be replaced.
Lock the Screws
Over time, the use of regular, hot and cold weather, dirt, and dust can cause damage to patio door locks. These delicate parts may wear out if not properly maintained, causing your door to not lock properly. Most lock problems are easily fixed with a few simple steps.
The first thing you have to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to get rid of any dust or dirt that may be present, and then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant will help keep the moving components functioning smoothly and efficiently. Avoid patio door repairs with oil bases as they can attract dust and other debris which could cause more issues.
Next, if your patio door has an electronic foot lock for security, make sure 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 frame of your patio door. Loosen the screw using a Robertson screwdriver, and gently push it upwards or downwards to adjust the foot lock as required. Once the adjustment has been completed, tighten the screw.
The most frequent issue in the repair of patio door handles is misalignment of the latch and strike plate. This can be due to everyday wear and tear, or the latch could be placed higher or below what it is supposed to be.
Then, take off the handle that was previously used and locate the screws or bolts holding it in the first place. Be sure to keep track of them as you will require them when installing the new handle. Remove the old spindle and slide the new one in place on the interior of the door. Make sure it is aligned properly with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Once the new spindle is in place, reinstall the handles for both exterior and interior to ensure that they are in alignment with the bolts or screws which hold them in place.
Once you've made any necessary adjustments to your patio door, be sure to test it by locking and closing the door. If everything is in alignment, the door will be able to open and close smoothly, without additional force. If you are still having issues it may be necessary to move your strike plate or latch 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 change locks themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door open and removing the existing lock from the inside of the door. Carefully study how the existing lock is screwed into both the door and the jamb to get a sense for what type of lock you'll need purchase.
Before you install the new latch remove the screws that hold the strike plate (the part of the lock that's positioned on the outside of the door frame) and then adjust it horizontally or vertically to align it with the hole in the jamb in the door. After you've repositioned your strike plate, screw it into its place and tighten the screws.
When all the components of your patio door have been moved or replaced, you can reassemble them and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. When you're done testing the latch. Make sure it is fitted properly and catches the latch when the door is shut. If it does, your patio door lock is working exactly as it should, and is can provide the security and privacy you've come to expect from your doors.
Like other areas of your home your patio doors also need to be aligned properly for them to function efficiently. Over time, cold and hot weather, dirt and debris, and other factors can cause the frames, hinges, and locking mechanism to shift. If these components are not aligned it's like trying to fit a key in the wrong hole for a key it won't work. If you follow these steps, you can fix an issue that been thought to be impossible to fix. Give yourself a pat on the back for taking on the project and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We'll bet you won't have any trouble opening or closing the door from now on. Best of luck! We're here for you if there are any concerns or questions.
Homepage: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/patio-door-repairs-caterham/
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