How to Repair a Bad double glazed patio door repairs Door Lock

A secure patio door is essential for home security. It can be frustrating when yours is difficult to lock.

A locked that isn't working properly could be the result of misalignment or simply wear and tear. It is possible to restore the lock's function by adjusting it or lubricating it. If these troubleshooting techniques fail, you may need to replace both the mortise as well as the handle.

Clean and Lubricate

A door lock can become difficult to open and close due to dust, dirt and grime. A regular cleaning and lubrication schedule can keep your security device from becoming stiff or stymied, saving your money on repair costs and allowing your door to enjoy its maximum lifespan.

In the beginning, you'll need to clean the lock cylinder. To do this, you'll need spray cans of penetrating oil, such as WD-40. Spray a small amount oil into the keyhole and then rotate the key to spread the oil. Avoid using solvents like household oil or other, as they can damage your locks. Spray a small amount on the key.

When your lock's cylinder is clean it's time to lubricate. You can use dry lubricants such as graphite powder or a silicone spray. Graphite powder is long-lasting and doesn't attract dust as liquid lubricants, so it's an excellent choice for lubricating sticky locks. Silicone sprays can be able to withstand temperatures that are below freezing and are impervious to water. However, they may require multiple coats to be efficient.

You can also use a de-icer spray specifically made for cold weather. It will melt ice and frost on the lock mechanism. A few coats of this will allow your lock unlock and then re-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 can cause corrosion. The standard rule of thumb is to lubricate your locks at least twice a year or more often if you reside in an area with harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your patio door locks can help save the cost of repairs and ensure that it will continue to work properly for many years.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If your patio door lock isn't working properly, it could mean that one or more components are damaged or misaligned. Regular inspection and timely repair of a faulty upvc patio door repairs near me door lock will prevent any further damage and ensure your doors are safe. To repair Patio Door a locked or unlocked patio door, you can tighten loose screws or adjust the lock mechanism or replace the lock cylinder.

Begin by looking at the exterior and interior of the lock to find signs of damage or misalignment. The patio door locks can expand or contract in response to the weather, and may even shift over time. This slight movement can cause the locking mechanism to stop aligning properly and can cause issues when opening or closing the door.

Examine the keyway hole of the lock cylinder. A corroded or blocked cylinder is difficult to open and can eventually cause damage to the pins of the lock, cams, or latch springs. If the cylinder is difficult to insert, you might be able to dislodge any obstruction using the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the issue continues it may be necessary to take the cylinder out and disassemble it to locate the cause of the obstruction.

If the lock cylinder isn't secured to the body of the lock then you can loosen it by removing a flat screw inside the cylinder faceplate. Loosening this screw will allow you to move the cylinder around and could help restore proper alignment.

Check the cylinder for a small tab that moves upwards and downwards with the key, typically towards the very end. This little clip, called a ”release tab”, keeps the cylinder from sliding all the way into the lock body. This tab can be removed using a standard key to allow the cylinder to be removed, then returned.

If your lock cylinder is stuck, you may be able to restore the proper alignment by rotating it until the latch bolt is in contact with the strike plate, and the handle or knob can be pushed in and withdrawn. Once you have restored the proper alignment, put back together the lock and test it for functionality. If your patio door lock still isn't functioning properly It is likely that another component like the latch or latch spring must be replaced.

Make sure you tighten the Screws

Over time, the use of regular, hot and cold weather dust, dirt, and can take their toll on patio door locks. These delicate parts may be damaged if they are not maintained properly, causing your door to stop locking properly. Thankfully, most lock problems can be fixed easily by following a few easy maintenance steps.

The first thing to do is clean the lock mechanism. Make use of a damp cloth to get rid of any dust or dirt that might be found. Then, dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning the components, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can help keep the moving parts functioning smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants containing oil bases, however they could attract dust and debris that can lead to further issues.

If your patio door is fitted with a security footlock, ensure that the footlock is aligned correctly with the strike plate. In most instances, this will require adjustment of the screws that hold the foot lock to the patio door frame. Loosen the screw using the Robertson screwdriver and gently pry up or down to adjust the foot lock as needed. Once the adjustment is done then tighten the screw.

The most common problem when it comes to fixing patio door handles is misalignment of the strike plate and latch. This could be caused by wear and tear or the latch could be set above or below where it should be.

Then, take out the handle from the old one and find the bolts or screws that are holding it in the place. Be sure to keep track of them as you will need them when installing the new handle. Remove the old spindle and place the new one in place on the inside of the door. Make sure it is aligned properly with the holes in both the interior and exterior handle. Install the exterior and interior handles once the spindle is been installed. Make sure they are properly aligned with the bolts or screws to secure them.

Close and lock the patio sliding doors repair door after you have made any adjustments that are required. If the door is correctly aligned, it should be able to open and shut without needing any additional force. If you still have problems you may have to move your strike plate or latch or replace the lock cylinder.

Replace the latch

If your patio door locks still not working, it may be time to replace the lock. Most homeowners can replace the lock themselves. Begin by sliding the patio sliding door repair near me doors completely out and unscrewing your existing lock from the inside of the door. Take note of how the current lock is screwed into the door tilt and slide patio door repairs near me jamb so that you can discern the type of lock you'll need to purchase.

Before installing the new latch, loosen screws that secure 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 so that it is aligned with the latch hole. After you've repositioned the latch plate, tighten the screws and screw it into place.

Once all the components of your patio door are moved or replaced, you can reassemble them and secure them as directed by the manufacturer. When you're done, test the latch to ensure that it fits and catches the latch's hasp when your door is closed. If it does, your patio door lock is now working exactly as it should, and is will provide you with the security and privacy you've come to expect from your home's doors.

Like other parts of your house should be aligned properly to work efficiently. Over time, temperatures or cold, dirt and debris can cause the frames and hinges to shift. When these elements are misaligned it's like trying to insert a key into the wrong keyhole and it doesn't work. By following these easy steps, you can fix the issue that may have been thought to be impossible to fix. You should pat yourself on the back for tackling the task and reclaiming the patio door's closed position! We're sure you won't have any issues opening or closing the door from now on out. Have fun! We are here to help in case you require any assistance or have questions.(Image: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Window-Repairs.-150x150.jpg)