Is your sliding door giving you a hard time? Luckily, there are a few things you can try at home in order to fix this issue. One of these methods will help solve your problem, whether a sliding door latch is stuck in the locked position or the device will not lock. Keep on reading to find out.
1. Lubrication
In most cases, a well-done lubrication job is all that is needed to fix a sliding door lock issue. This fix is not always permanent, but can get your sliding door open for further repairs or replacement. Note that the best door lock lubricants will not use an oil base. If you end up using standard WD-40 or other oily lubricants, the liquid residue will eventually attract dust and other debris, causing a clutter of dust to be built. If the lock is open and the door will not move, lubricate the track. Though if you are trying to fix a sliding door lock, apply the lubricant inside any keyways.
If you are to decide to use a lubricant, be sure to apply it directly onto the parts of the lock that are not moving. If internal components are not accessible, apply lubricant into crevices that lead to internal components.
2. Door Fixes
Sometimes, the problem could be the door itself. This is quite common to occur for sliding door locks. Because the track is so long and the tolerances are so tight, any disruption to that surface is going to affect the door’s ability to open. If you wish to increase the security of your sliding glass door then the best option for you would be to block the tracks so that the door cannot open. This may also happen unintentionally and noticeably with the same type of debris accumulation that happens inside locks.
To recap, take with you the fact that an issue with a sliding door may be causing the issue with your sliding door lock. Check to see what you can do to improve the sliding door itself and then you should see an improvement with the lock mechanism of the door.
3. Lock Repair
Another popular cause is a faulty sliding door, broken lock. The lock repair process consists of mending or replacing parts of the lock without changing the lock entirely. You may be tempted to do this work yourself, but we highly recommend that you don't. Any mistake, even the most minor, could potentially cause a much more serious concern.
Note that in order to fix sliding door locks with repair, the lock must be designed to disassemble and reassemble. Therefore, those cheap sliding doors that suddenly quit working may be out of luck in getting back to work. In the case of when a lock repair is required, call up a professional and experienced locksmith to do the job.
4. Lock Replacement
The last solution and the one you can't go wrong with is simply replacing the lock. This is done in situations where the existing lock cannot be disassembled without breaking, when replacement parts are no longer available, or when the cost of a new lock is cheaper than new parts. The only real issue that you'll likely be facing is finding a lock that fits your door properly.
When having to decide between lock repair and lock replacement, you'll most likely find yourself going forward with replacing your current sliding door lock. Though you must be sure that you purchase new locks that are the same style and dimension as the old lock, otherside, this fix will not work for you.
Conclusion
No matter what fix you decide to proceed with, It is important to repair your faulty sliding door as quickly as possible in order to maintain the security of your home. Although sliding doors do not provide much protection, they are still an ideal target spot for possible intruders. That is why you should consider different strategies that require all locks to be in working order.
If you are in need of a local trustworthy locksmith to assist with your sliding door’s lock, please reach Zig Zag Locksmith at (424) 203-6668 to schedule a service appointment or to receive a free quote.
