Want to know how to replace a sliding glass door lock? Check if the lock needs cleaning or repair. If it requires a repair, remove its handle by unscrewing the screws. Get the measurements of the lock and door before purchasing a new lock. Once done, install the new lock by securing it with mounting screws.
If you want to learn more about how to replace sliding door lock, this tutorial would be of great help. However, you have to follow each step carefully since it could be complex, especially if it is your first time.
Table of Contents
What You Need
Changing sliding door lock would be easier if you have the right tools in your hand. You don’t have to worry since these items can be found inside your home or it can be purchased at the nearest hardware store.
New lock
In choosing a replacement lock, make sure that it would fit your sliding door by getting the measurements of the door and your old lock. For convenience, look for a lock that has an interior handle and exterior pull with a key cylinder. It must also have a mortise lock and thumb latch.
Choose a lock that could be installed on the kind of door you have, since some work only for a specific kind of door. For easy installation, make sure that the lock includes mounting screws so you won’t need to look for them.
Screwdriver
The screwdriver you need will depend on the type of screws your lock has. If it has a cross-shaped screw head, you will need a Phillips screwdriver. Phillips screwdrivers have different sizes, so you need one that will fit the screws perfectly. If it is too huge, it can damage the screws. If too small, it would be difficult to tighten the screws.
If the screw head is slotted, a flat head screwdriver is the best tool to use. Like Philips screwdriver, it is available in various sizes. The thinner the screwdriver is, the longer its reach is.
Lubricant
A lubricant is needed to clean the lock. Often, cleaning a lock will get it to work again. You can use a WD-40 to clear the dust on the lock mechanism. It is also safe on steel and aluminum materials. If you don’t have any available WD-40, you can also use any other penetrating lubricants that you prefer.
As an alternative, you can also use oil to clean the lock if you don’t have any other lubricants. The only disadvantage of using an oil is that dust could easily get stuck if the lock is not cleaned frequently.
Recommend article: how to properly lubricate a door lock?
Pencil
You will need a pencil to lubricate your lock. Just rub the pencil on your key to coat it with graphite.
Ruler
You can use a ruler to measure the width of the door, the space between the holes for the screws, and other dimensions of the lock.
What to Do
Step 1: Check if the lock needs cleaning or repairing
Before you start dislodging the lock, check first if it needs to be replaced or cleaned only. To do this, pour a lubricant into the lock and rub the pencil on your key before putting the key into the lock. If the lock does not still work after you cleaned it, then you have to buy a new lock to replace the old one.
Step 2: Remove the lock’s handle by unscrewing the screws and get the measurements of the lock
To purchase the right lock for your sliding door, you need to remove the screws of the handle and dismantle the lock. After that, get the measurements of the lock and the door. Provide these measurements to the hardware store where you will buy the lock. This would prevent you from buying the wrong one.
Step 3: Install the new lock
Install the new lock on the location where your old one used to be located. Place the screws in through the holes and tighten them using a screwdriver. Once you are done, test if the lock is working fine by closing and opening the door.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much would it cost me if I let a locksmith replace my sliding door lock?
The average cost of replacing a sliding door lock is from $40 to $200. If you don’t want to replace the lock by yourself, you can call a legitimate locksmith to help you out. But if you want to save money, you can do it by yourself by simply following the tutorial for replacing patio door lock and replacing sliding glass door lock.
What are the factors that I must take into consideration when purchasing a new lock?
It is important that your new lock will fit your sliding door, so it is necessary to get all the measurements. Also check the locking mechanisms for sliding doors to ensure the best security. See to it that the items needed for installation are already included in the package so sliding door lock replacement would be easier.
Conclusion
Are you satisfied after you finished our tutorial on how to replace a sliding glass door lock? By following the steps above, sliding glass door lock replacement is not a problem. You can save your money and learn a skill that would help you in case your lock broke.
If you think that this tutorial could also help others, why don’t you share it with your friends? This could solve their problems also. We would also love to hear your experiences while doing the tutorial. Just leave a comment below.
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