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How to Repair a Bad Patio Door Lock A secure patio door is crucial to home security. If it is difficult to lock, it could be a nightmare. A locked that isn't working properly could be caused by misalignment, or even wear and tear. It is possible to fix the function of the lock by adjusting or lubricating it. If these solutions 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 and close doors. Regular cleaning and lubrication will 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. The first step in the process is to clean your 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 distribute it. Avoid using household oils or other solvents that could damage your locks. Make sure to spray a bit on the key itself. When your lock's cylinder is clean, it's time to lubricate. You can use dry lubricants like graphite powder or sprays of silicone. Graphite is a long-lasting lubricant that doesn't attract dust, unlike liquid lubricants. It's a great option to lubricate locks. Silicone sprays are water-resistant and can withstand both moist and freezing temperatures, but may require several coats to be effective. You can also apply sprays to de-icer your lock specially designed for cold weather and can lift frost and ice off the lock mechanism. A few sprays of this will aid your lock unlock and then lock again easily. The environment will determine the frequency at which you should lubricate locks. A location with a coastline exposes your door to salty air and cause corrosion, and temperature changes can affect how well your lock works. It is recommended that you regularly lubricate your locks at least once each year, or more often if your area has harsh weather conditions. Lubricating your locks can save you money on repairs and ensure that your patio door will perform as it should for long time to come. Reposition the Lock Cylinder If your patio door lock does not work properly there's a chance that one or more of its components may be damaged or misaligned. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of a broken lock on your patio door will stop further damage and increase the security of your doors. You can fix a patio door that is locked or unlocked by tightening loose screws, adjusting the lock mechanism or replacing the lock cylinder. Begin by inspecting the exterior and interior of the lock to see whether there are signs of damage or misalignment. Locks for patio doors can expand or contract with the weather, and might even shift with time. This slight movement could cause the locking mechanism to become misaligned and cause problems when opening or closing the door. Examine the keyway hole in the lock cylinder. A corroded or obstructed lock cylinder could be difficult to open and may cause damage to the latch springs, cam or lock pins. If the cylinder is difficult to insert, you might be able of removing any obstructions with the help of tweezers or a picklock. If the issue persists, you may need to take out the cylinder in order to locate the cause. If the lock cylinder isn't screwed into the lock body, you can loosen it by uncrewing a flat screw inside the faceplate of the cylinder. This screw will allow you to rotate the cylinder and may even help restore the alignment. Look over the cylinder for a little tab that moves up and down with the key, usually towards the end. This small clip, sometimes called a “release Tab”, prevents the cylinder from sliding into the lock body in the entire way. A standard key can move the tab back to release the cylinder and allow it to be removed and put back in. If your lock's cylinder is stuck, you might be able to restore the proper alignment by turning it until the latch bolt connects with the strike plate, and the handle or knob can be pulled in and withdrawn. Once you've restored the proper alignment, reassemble the lock and test it for performance. If your patio door lock isn't working It is likely that a different component, such as the latch or latch spring requires replacement. Make sure you tighten the Screws Over time, regular use, hot and cold weather dust, dirt and even dirt can wear down patio door locks. These delicate parts may be damaged if they are not properly maintained, causing your door to not lock properly. Most lock problems are easily solved with just a few steps. The first thing you have to do is clean the lock mechanism. Use a damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust that might be present. Then, dry the components thoroughly. After cleaning, a small amount silicone-based lubricant can keep the moving parts operating smoothly and efficiently. Avoid lubricants with oil bases, however, as these can attract dust and debris which could cause problems. If your patio door comes with an electronic footlock for security, make sure 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. To adjust the footlock, loosen the screw with a Robertson screwdriver, and then gently push it upwards or downwards. Once the adjustment has been completed, tighten the screw. The most frequent issue 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 may be positioned higher or below what it should be. Then, take off the handle from the old one and locate the screws or bolts holding it in the first place. Keep track of the bolts or screws because you will need them to attach the new handle. Then, take off the old spindle, then slide the new spindle into position on the inside of the door, ensuring that it is aligned with the holes in the interior and exterior handles. Reinstall the interior and external handles once the spindle is been installed. Make sure that they're aligned correctly with the screws or bolts holding them in place. Close and lock the patio door once you have made any necessary adjustments. If the door is properly aligned, it should be able to open and shut without needing any additional force. If you're still experiencing difficulty, you might need to adjust 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 still not working, it may be time to replace the lock. Replacing a lock is a moderately easy home improvement task that many homeowners can tackle themselves. Start by sliding the patio door all the way open and then removing the current lock from the inside of the door. Be sliding glass patio door repair Repair My Windows And Doors to study the way in which the current lock is screwed to the door and jamb to get a sense for what kind of lock you'll need to purchase. Before installing the new latch, loosen screws that secure the strike plate. This is the part of the lock that is mounted on the edges of the door's frame. Adjust it horizontally or in a vertical direction to align it with holes in the latch. Once you have repositioned the latch plate you can tighten the screws, then fix it with screws. After all components are repositioned or modified, assemble and secure the patio door according to the instructions of the manufacturer. When you're done checking the latch. Check to see if it fits properly and catches the latch when the door is shut. If it does then your patio door lock is functioning as it should and able to provide you with the security and privacy you've come to expect from your home's doors. Like other areas of your home your patio doors also need to be aligned properly for them to work efficiently. Over time, temperatures, cold, dirt, and debris can cause the hinges and door frame to shift. Misaligned hinges, door frames and locking mechanisms are similar to trying to insert keys into the wrong keyhole. It's not working. You can fix a problem which seemed impossible by following these simple steps. So go ahead and give yourself an award for tackling this challenge and regaining the door that was locked! We'll bet you won't have any trouble opening or closing the door from now on. Good luck! We're here to assist in case you require any assistance or have questions.