9 . What Your Parents Taught You About Repair Patio Door Lock
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how to repair tilt and slide patio door to Repair Patio Door a Bad repair patio door Door Lock
A safe patio door is a crucial element of home security. It can be frustrating when yours is difficult to lock.
In many cases, a stubborn lock is the result of misalignment or simple wear and tear. Lubricating the lock or adjusting its position can help restore its function. If these methods of troubleshooting don't work, you can replace the mortise lock and handle.
Clean and Lubricate
Over time, dirt, dust and grime can make it difficult to open or close doors. Regular cleaning and lubrication schedule can stop your security device from becoming stiff or stuck, thereby saving you money on repairs and allowing your door to enjoy its full potential.
To begin, you will have to clean the lock's the cylinder. To do this, use a spray bottle of penetrating oil, such as WD-40. Spray a small amount of it into the keyhole, then work the key in and out to distribute the oil. Avoid using solvents like household oil or other which could damage your locks. Spray a small amount on the key.
When your lock's cylinder is clean and lubricated, it's time to apply. You can use a silicone spray or a dry lubricant such as graphite powder. Graphite is a durable lubricant that doesn't attract dust unlike liquid oils. It's a great choice to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays are able to withstand freezing temperatures and are impervious to water. However, they might need multiple coats in order to be effective.
You can also use a de-icer spray, which is specifically made for cold weather. It will remove the frost and ice from the mechanism of your lock. A few sprays of this will help your lock unlock and then re-lock more easily.
The climate will determine the frequency at which you should lubricate locks. The location of your door will affect its performance. A location near the coast could expose it to salty air, which can cause corrosion. The standard rule of thumb is to oil your locks twice per year, or more frequently when you live in an area with extreme weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can save costs on repairs, and ensure that it continues to work properly for a long time.
Reposition the Lock Cylinder
If your patio door lock isn't operating properly, it could be that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of a damaged lock on your patio door could stop further damage and increase the security of your doors. You can fix doors that are locked or locked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism, or replacing the lock cylinder.
Begin by inspecting the exterior and interior of the lock to determine if there are any signs of damage or misalignment. Often, patio door locks expand and contract in hot or cold weather and may shift slightly over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to be misaligned and cause problems when opening or closing the door.
Next, examine the lock cylinder for obstructions in the keyway hole. An obstructed or corroded lock cylinder is difficult to open and may eventually cause damage to the lock pins, cam or latch springs. If the cylinder isn't fitting easily, you can remove any obstructions with a pair of picklocks and tweezers. If the issue persists, you may have to remove the cylinder in order to locate the root of the issue.
If the lock cylinder hasn't been screwed into the body of the lock, you can loosen it by unscrewing a flat screw inside the cylinder's faceplate. This screw will allow you rotate the cylinder, and it could also help restore the alignment.
Look for the small tab that moves along with the key. It's usually located near the end. This small clip, sometimes called a "release Tab", prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body completely. This tab can be removed with a standard key to allow the cylinder to be taken out and then returned.
If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you might be able to restore the proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt engages with the strike plate, and the handle or knob can be pushed into and pulled out. Reassemble the lock once you have restored the proper alignment. Test it for functionality. If your patio door lock remains difficult to use, it's likely that another component such as the latch or latch spring is damaged or worn and will require replacement.
Lock the Screws
Patio door locks can be damaged by frequent use, extreme temperatures, dirt and dust. These delicate parts may wear out if not properly maintained, leading to your door to not 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 clean 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 running smoothly and effectively. Avoid lubricants that have oil bases as they can draw dust and dirt which could cause more issues.
If your patio door is equipped with a security footlock, make sure that the footlock is aligned properly with the strike plate. In most instances, this will require adjusting the screws that secure the foot lock to the frame of your patio door. Remove the screw using the Robertson screwdriver, and gently push it up or down to adjust the foot lock as needed. Once the adjustment has been completed then tighten the screw.
When it comes to fixing the handle on 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 positioned higher or lower than it should be.
Then, take out the handle that was previously used and locate the screws or bolts holding it in the place. Keep in mind the screws or bolts, as you will require them for the installation of the new handle. Remove the old spindle and place the new one into place on the inside of the door. Make sure it is aligned properly with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Once the new spindle is installed put back the interior and exterior handles, making sure that they are aligned with the bolts or screws that hold them in place.
Close and lock the patio door after you have made any adjustments that are required. If the door is properly aligned, it will open and shut without needing any additional force. If you're having difficulty, you might need to move the latch or strike plate or the lock cylinder may be damaged and must be replaced.
Replace the latch
If your patio door locks do not work, it might be time to replace the latch. The majority of homeowners can replace the lock themselves. Start by sliding the patio door completely open and then removing the current lock from the interior side of the door. Examine the lock you have to determine the type of lock that you'll require.
Before installing the new latch, loosen screws that hold the strike plate. This is the portion of the lock mounted on the edge of the frame of the door. Adjust it either horizontally or in the vertical direction to align it with the holes for the latch. Once you have repositioned the latch plate you can tighten the screws, then fix it with screws.
After all components have been moved or adjusted after which you can assemble and secure your patio door according to the instructions of the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch to ensure that it fits and is able to catch the latch hasp when the door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is working as it should and able to provide you with the security and privacy you've come appreciate from your home's doors.
Like other parts of your home the patio doors have to be aligned properly for them to function efficiently. Over time, temperatures and cold weather, dirt and debris, and other elements can cause hinges, door frame, and the locking mechanism to shift. Misaligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are like trying to put keys into the wrong keyhole. It's not working. You can solve a problem which seemed impossible by following these easy steps. Give yourself a pat on the back for taking on the job and reclaiming your repair patio door lock door's closed position! We're betting you won't face any more trouble opening or closing the door from now to the end. Best of luck! We're here if you have any questions or concerns.
