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How to Troubleshoot and Repair Patio Door Locks Keep your patio doors in a good condition to guard your home from intruders. However, the elements may cause the doors and locks to be misaligned or damaged. You can repair your patio door lock yourself when it's not working correctly. These steps will fix problems with the handle, keyway and latch. Inspect the Lock Patio doors are frequently targeted by burglars because of their large amount of glass and the convenient location within a home. It is essential to ensure that your home's security. There are simple ways to troubleshoot and fix patio door locks that aren't functioning properly. The first step is to inspect the lock and ensure that nothing is blocking it from locking or latching. If you spot any issues such as loose screws or rust, or the wrong alignment, these must be addressed promptly. In some instances an adjustment of the position of the patio door could suffice to resolve the problem. Another common issue is dust or debris that can cause the lock mechanism to stop functioning properly. To avoid this happening, make sure to clean your patio door regularly and clean the lock's hardware. If necessary, you can apply a mild soap solution. However, you must be sure that the lock is dried completely afterward. In addition, it's recommended to oil the lock regularly. The moving parts of your uPVC patio lock are comparable to those used in a finely tuned machine. They can jam and become stuck as with any mechanical device. Using a graphite pencil or a light lubricant will help dislodge any dirt or debris that may have accumulated within the lock cylinder and ensure that it is operating efficiently. It is essential to know the exact dimensions of the patio door lock. This will help you find a lock that perfectly matches your current mechanism. If you're unsure of how to proceed get help, consult a professional 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 your door lock to become blocked. These issues can compromise your security at home. But it's simple to fix these issues when you know how. Before you attempt any repairs, clean your lock. Utilizing a damp, clean cloth, wipe away any stains or debris that might be hindering your lock from functioning properly. Use hot soapy water and a small amount of grit to clean the lock mechanism. After you've cleaned your locks, allow them to dry completely before re-using them. Most patio doors are secured by mortise locking mechanisms. This is a secure lock, but it is susceptible to problems with time. If your uPVC lock is stuck, the first step is to clean and lubricate it. Start by cleaning the latch with hot soapy water. Then, remove the screws that hold the body of the latch in the position. After removing the latch plate and handle, you can remove it from its slot on the door frame. Once the latch is detached it is possible to lubricate the lock with an oil that is light in nature, such as WD40. If you don't have WD40, you can also use graphite pencils to help remove any dirt or grit in the mechanism. If your uPVC locks aren't working, you may have to relocate the lock cylinder. This requires additional tools and should be performed by an expert. You can practice repositioning a cylinder, without having to remove it from the door. Open and close the door while the cylinder is in the lock position. Then make pencil marks on the frame inside where the screws that hold the locking cylinder are. Lubricate the Lock If your lock is clean of debris and dirt, it's a good time to lubricate your keyhole and locks themselves. Lubricants that are properly applied will keep your lock in good shape and extend its lifespan. Dry graphite is a fantastic method to lubricate small metal parts, like locks. It's non-sticky and oily. It also lasts longer than liquids. It's easy to apply, and you can also apply it to sliding doors, door hinges and garage door tracks. Master locksmith Shawn Fago recommends using a pencil-type graphite lubricant that is designed specifically for lock cylinders. Liquid lubricants are more effective than graphite, particularly in humid climates. Silicone lubricants are resistant to water and do not attract dust and dirt as much as other liquid lubricants. They are effective in low and high temperatures. Certain silicone lubricants may build up over time and eventually replace other lubricants that you've used. Teflon oil can be an ideal substitute for silicone lubricants, since they are long-lasting and don't attract dirt or dust. They're also ideal for cold conditions, since they can help prevent ice accumulation inside the lock. If your lock cylinder feels stiff and difficult to turn, then it's probably worn out. It's going to need to be replaced. A professional locksmith can remove the lock mechanism and install the cylinder of a new model that matches your current keys. They can also repair and modify existing locking mechanisms. If your door isn't equipped with an cylinder for your lock or faceplate, a professional can install it to increase security and safety. They can also install new faceplates for your lock on your patio door to are in keeping with the rest. Reposition the Lock Cylinder If cleaning and lubricating the door doesn't work, the problem could be that the latch on the door isn't properly aligned with the frame or jamb. Open the sliding patio door, and take a look upwards and downwards at the opening for the latch. If the door is aligned with the jamb or the frame and you are able to check, then it is. If not then loosen the screws that hold the latch body and adjust it up or down until the latch catches the latch tightly when the door is closed. The latch may also be difficult to close due to the cylinder is worn. patio door repair makes it hard to turn the key, which is why you'll require a replacement. It is recommended to select one with the same keyway and size like the one that came before it. This allows you to replace it easily by unscrewing the two halves and inserting the new cylinder. Many home improvement stores sell replacement cylinders. You'll need the brand and model number of your current cylindrical to purchase an alternative. If you don't know the model and manufacturer, take a picture of the cylinder and its mounting screws. Then visit the local hardware store for assistance. Once you have a new cylinder, remove the screw with a flat head that holds it in place, and remove the escutcheon plate. Remove the lock cylinder, escutcheon and door frame using the help of a screwdriver. Set the screw somewhere secure so that you do not lose it. Then loosen the set screw on the cylinder's keep (the metal part that fits into the rectangular cutout of the door) and loosen it enough to turn the cylinder. Replace the Lock A patio door lock not working properly can be a major risk to your security. It's not common for dirt and other debris to get stuck inside the lock mechanism however if the issue isn't addressed promptly, the lock can eventually fail and cease to provide security. It's a simple DIY project to change the patio door lock. You'll only need the tools you need and some time. Begin by inspecting the lock to determine what's causing the problem. If cleaning and lubricating the latch does not work it could be bent too far to function properly. In this instance, it would be best to replace the latch with a brand new mortise lock to ensure that it's as strong and secure as it can be. Consult a door hardware or locksmith if you're unsure about undertaking this DIY project. They'll have the expertise and tools to complete the task properly and ensure that the new lock works with your patio door. Keeping your patio door lock in good working condition is a matter of regular maintenance. Make sure the knobs and handles aren't loose, and if they are tight, tighten them when needed. Lubricate your lock at least once per year to avoid it sticking or becoming stiff. It is recommended that locks exposed to heavy usage or extreme weather should be lubricated more frequently. The type of lubricant is crucial, so make sure to select one that's specifically designed for use with locks (GT85 or WD-40's Specialist Friction Dry PTFE). To get the best results apply the lubricant directly to the key hole of the lock mechanism.