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The Advanced Guide To Repair Patio Door Lock
How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock

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

A lock that is not working can be caused by misalignment or simply wear and wear and tear. It's possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these troubleshooting techniques don't work you can replace both the mortise and handle.

Clean and Lubricate


A door lock can become hard to open and close due to dirt, dust and grime. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help prevent your security device becoming stiff or stuck. This will save you money in repair costs and will extend the longevity of your door.

To begin, you'll have to clean the lock's the cylinder. To do this, use spray cans of penetrating oil, such as WD-40. Spray a small amount into the keyhole and work the key through and out to spread the oil. Avoid using solvents like household oil or other that can harm your locks. Spray a small amount on the key.

After your lock cylinder is clean it's time to lubricate. You can apply dry lubricants such as graphite powder or sprays of silicone. Graphite powder lasts for a long time and doesn't attract dust like liquid lubricants, so it's a great choice for lubricating locks that stick. Silicone sprays are able to be able to withstand temperatures that are below freezing and are impervious to water. However, they might need multiple coats in order to be effective.

You can also apply de-icer spray, which is specifically specially designed for cold weather. It will melt frost and ice off the mechanism of your lock. This will enable you to unlock your lock and then relock it more easily.

How often patio door repairs should oil your locks will be contingent on environmental factors. A location with a coastline exposes your door to salty air and cause corrosion, and temperature fluctuations can also influence how well your lock works. It is recommended that you ensure that your locks are lubricated at least twice every year, or more frequently if your area has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks will 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 does not work properly, one or more of its components may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and prompt repair of a damaged patio door lock will prevent additional damage and ensure that your doors are secure. To fix a locked or unlocked patio door, you can tighten loose screws, adjust the mechanism of the lock, or replace the lock cylinder.

Start by examining the exterior and inside of the lock to find signs of damage or misalignment. The majority of patio door locks expand and contract in hot or cold weather and can shift slightly over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanisms to not align properly and cause problems when opening or closing the door.

Then, look over the lock cylinder for obstructions within the keyway hole. If the lock is corroded or blocked, the cylinder might be difficult to open and can cause damage to the latch springs, cam, or the lock pins. If the cylinder doesn't fit easily, you can get rid of any obstructions with a pair of tweezers and a lock. If the issue persists it may be necessary to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to locate the cause of the obstruction.

If the lock cylinder is not been secured to the body of the lock it can be removed by removing the screw on the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw lets you rotate the cylinder, and it could also help restore alignment.

Look for a small tab that moves along with the key. It's usually near the end. This tiny clip, also known as a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. This tab can be moved back using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be taken out and then reinserted.

If the lock cylinder of yours 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 handle or knob can be pulled in and withdrawn. Once you have restored the proper alignment, you can reassemble the lock and check its functionality. If your patio door lock is difficult to use, it's a sign that a component, like the latch or latch spring is worn or damaged and will require replacement.

Tighten the Screws

Patio door locks can be damaged by frequent usage, extreme temperatures, dirt and dust. Unless properly cared for these delicate components can get worn out and cause your door to fail to lock properly. Thankfully, most lock problems can be fixed easily by following a few easy maintenance steps.

The first thing you need to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth remove any dirt or dust that may be present and then dry the lock thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant will help keep the moving parts operating smoothly and effectively. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, they can attract dust and debris which could cause problems.

If your patio door is equipped with a security footlock, ensure that the footlock is aligned properly with the strike plate. In most cases, this will only require you to adjust the screws that attach your foot lock to the frame of the patio door. Remove the screw using the Robertson screwdriver, and gently pry up or down to adjust the foot lock as needed. Once the adjustment has been completed then tighten the screw.

When it comes time to repair the handle of a patio door, the most common problem is misalignment between the latch and strike plate. This can be caused by the wear and tear of everyday use, or it could simply be that the latch is placed higher or lower than it ought to be.

Then, take out the handle from the old one and locate the bolts or screws that are holding it in the first place. Keep track of the bolts or screws as you will require them for the installation of the new handle. Then, remove the old spindle and place the new one on the inside of the door. Make sure that it is aligned properly with the holes in both the exterior and interior handle. Install the exterior and interior handles once the spindle has been installed. Make sure they are properly aligned with the bolts or screws to secure them.

After you've made any needed 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 shut without needing any additional force. If you're still experiencing difficulty it could be necessary to adjust the latch or strike plate, or the lock cylinder could be damaged and need to be replaced.

Replace the latch

If your patio door locks aren't working, it could be time to replace the latch. The replacement of a lock is a fairly simple home improvement task that many homeowners can do themselves. Begin by sliding the patio door all the way open and then removing the current lock from the interior side of the door. Carefully study how the existing lock is screwed into both the door and the jamb to determine the kind of lock you'll have to purchase.

Before you install the new latch remove the screws that hold the strike plate (the part of the lock that's set on the outside of the door frame) and adjust it horizontally or vertically to align it with the hole in the jamb in the door. After you've repositioned the latch plate, tighten the screws and screw it in place.

Once all the components of your patio door have been relocated or replaced, reassemble and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch. Make sure it fits properly and catches the latch when the door is shut. If it does then your patio door lock is now working just as it should and is able to provide the security and privacy you've come appreciate from your home's doors.

Like other parts of your home your patio doors also need to be aligned properly for them to work efficiently. Over time, temperature cold, dirt and debris can cause the hinges and the frame of the door to shift. If these components are not aligned it's like trying to fit a key into the wrong hole for a key it won't work. You can fix an issue that appeared impossible by following these simple steps. So give yourself an award for tackling this project and reclaiming the door that was locked! We're betting you won't face any trouble opening or closing the door from now to the end. Have fun! We're here for you if there are any concerns or questions.

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