Replacing a Patio Door Lock

Replacing a patio door lock is not difficult. Here is a short article on how to replace a patio lock easily. There may be variations depending on the type of door you have, but the basic steps are the same.

Step 1 - Lock Type

Make sure that you purchase the right type of lock for the door. You can determine this from the make and the model number of the current lock.

Step 2 - Unscrew the Lock

Unlock the patio door and remove the lock from the door. Make sure that you unscrew the screws on the inside of the door. These inner screws are responsible for holding the lock together. As soon as you unscrew them, the lock will come apart.

Step 3 - Remove the Strike from the Door

Remove the door strike from the door jamb. The part of the lock that the door slides into is called the strike. There is an opening in the door edge which fits into the door strike when the door is closed. As the lock is turned, the lock handle will slide down.

Step 4 - Insert the Lock

The new lock can now be inserted into the opening in the patio door on the inner side. Place the back part of the lock into the patio door opening on the outer side. Now hold the two pieces together then insert and tighten the screws. Make sure that the screws are tightened properly and that the lock will not come out.

Step 5 - Attach the Door Strike

Now attach the strike into the door jamb. Make sure the lock unlock mechanism is working correctly and make any necessary adjustments.