How to Troubleshoot and Repair Patio Door Locks

Keeping your patio doors in good order will help protect your home from unwanted intruders. However, the elements may cause the doors and their locks to become misaligned or damaged.

If your repairing patio doors door lock doesn't work properly, you can make some basic repairs at home. These steps can fix issues with the handle, keyway, and latch.

Inspect the Lock

Patio doors are often targeted by burglars due to their huge amount of glass and the convenient position within a home. It is crucial that your locks work correctly to keep your home secure. There are easy methods to fix patio door locks which have stopped functioning.

The first step is to inspect the lock to see if anything is hindering it from locking or latching. If you spot any issues like loose screws or rust, or the wrong alignment, these must be addressed immediately. In some instances the slightest adjustment to the position of the patio door could be enough to fix the issue.

Another issue that is common is dust or debris that can cause the lock mechanism to stop functioning properly. Clean your patio door and clean all hardware of the lock regularly to prevent this. If needed, you can use a mild soap solution. But, be sure to dry the lock completely afterward.

Additionally, it's a good idea to lubricate the lock on a regular basis. Many of the moving parts of your uPVC patio door lock are like those of a fine-tuned machine, so they can become stuck and jammed as any other mechanical device. A graphite pencil, or a tiny amount of lubricant, can be used to get rid of any debris or dirt from the lock cylinder. This will ensure that it is running at a high speed.

Identifying the exact dimensions of your patio door lock is crucial. This will help you choose the perfect lock to match the existing mechanism. If you're not sure what to do you can contact an expert locksmith or tradesperson to get help.

Clean the Lock

Over time, cold and hot weather dust, dirt, and even dust can cause the intricate components of the door lock to become jammed. These problems can compromise the security of your home. These issues are simple to solve if you know how to do.

Clean your lock prior to attempting any repairs. Wipe away any stains and debris with a damp cloth. Then, use a little hot soapy water to clean the mechanism of your lock and wash away any grit or grime that has built up over time. Dry your locks completely after cleaning them.

Most patio doors are secured using mortise locking mechanisms. This is a safe lock, but it is susceptible to issues over time. If your uPVC lock has become stuck, the first step is to clean and lubricate it. Begin by cleaning the latch using hot soapy water. Next, you'll want to unfasten the screws that secure the latch body in place. After removing the latch handle and plate and handle, you can then remove it from its slot on the door frame.

Once the latch is removed, you can lubricate it with a light engineering lubricant like WD40. If you don't own WD40 or a graphite pencil, a graphite pens can be used to eliminate any grit and dirt from the mechanism. If your uPVC lock doesn't work it may be necessary to move the lock cylinder. This requires additional tools and should be performed by professionals. You can try repositioning the cylinder without removing it from the door by opening and closing the door while keeping the cylinder in the lock position, and then drawing pencil marks on the inside of the frame where the screws are that secure the cylinder.

Lubricate the Lock

When your lock is free from dirt and debris It's the perfect time to lubricate your keyhole and locks themselves. The right lubricant will keep your lock in good shape and prolong its lifespan.

Dry graphite is an excellent option to lubricate tiny metal parts, such as locks. It's non-sticky and oily. It is also more durable than liquids. It's simple to use and can be utilized on sliding patio door repairs near me doors, garage door tracks, and door hinges. Master locksmith Shawn Fago recommends using a pencil-like graphite lubricant specifically designed for lock cylinders.

Liquid lubricants are more effective than graphite, particularly in humid climates. Silicone lubricants are resistant to water and don't attract dirt and dust as much as other liquid fluids. They are efficient at low and high temperatures. However, certain silicone lubricants can cause buildup over time and can displace other lubricants you've used.

Teflon Lubricants are an excellent substitute for silicone lubricants, since they are long-lasting and do not attract dirt or dust. They're also great for cold environments because they'll keep ice from accumulating inside the lock.

If the lock cylinder you have is stiff and difficult to turn, then it's likely to be worn out. It will need to replaced. A professional locksmith can disassemble the lock mechanism and replace it with a an entirely new cylinder that is compatible with your existing keys. They can also repair patio Doors and modify existing locking mechanisms. A professional can also replace the lock cylinder if the door isn't equipped with one. This will increase security and safety. They can also put a new lock faceplate on your patio door to match the rest of your hardware.

Reposition the Lock Cylinder

If cleaning the lock with lubricant and lubricating it don't work, the issue could be that the latch is not properly aligned with the side jamb or frame of the door. To check this, open the sliding patio door lock repair near me door, and look both ways from the latch opening to see if the door is parallel with the frame or jamb. If not, remove the screws fixing the latch body and adjust it upwards or downwards until the lock latch is firmly grasping the latch hasp when the door closes.

Sometimes the latch is difficult to close because of a worn-out cylinder. You'll need a replacement cylinder if the worn cylinder is making it difficult to turn the key. It is recommended to select a cylinder with the same keyway and dimensions as the one you had previously. This allows you to replace it easily by removing the two halves and putting in the new cylinder.

Many home improvement stores sell replacement cylinders. You'll need the brand and model number of your existing cylinder to purchase an alternative. If you don't know the model and manufacturer, take a photo of the cylinder along with its mounting screws. Then visit your local hardware store for assistance.

Once you have the new cylinder installed remove it from the screw that holds it in place. Take off the escutcheon. Make use of a screwdriver to remove the lock cylinder, escutcheon plates and lock from the door and the door frame. Set the screw somewhere secure so you do not lose it. Then, loosen enough the set screw that is on the cylinder keep (the metal piece that fits into the rectangular hole in the door).

Replace the Lock

A patio door lock that isn't functioning properly could pose an immediate security risk. Dirt and debris can get stuck in the lock mechanism. If this is not taken care of promptly, the lock will eventually stop working and won't longer offer security. Replacing the patio door lock is a simple DIY project that requires just a few tools and little time.

Begin by examining the lock and determining what's causing the issue. If lubricating and cleaning don't help, the latch may be too bent to perform as it should. In this case it is recommended to replace the latch with a new mortise lock to ensure it is as secure and strong as is possible.

If you're not comfortable with this DIY task yourself, consult with a locksmith or door hardware specialist to assist you with the installation of the new lock. They will have the experience and tools to do it properly and ensure that the new lock works with your patio door.

Routine maintenance is the key to keeping your patio door lock functioning properly. Check that the knobs and handles aren't loose and tighten them if necessary. Lubricate your lock at least once a year to avoid it getting stuck or becoming stiff. Locks that are subjected to extreme use or temperatures should be lubricated frequently. The type of lubricant you use is vital, so be certain to select one specifically designed for use on locks (GT85 or WD-40's Specialist Anti Friction Dry PTFE). Apply the lubricant directly to the keyhole of the lock mechanism to achieve the best results.