How do I Fix a Lock That Has Been Pulled Out on a Metal Storm Door?
- 1). Remove the screws from the back of the lock, on the inside of the door, with a screwdriver. There are typically two Phillips head screws. Set them aside if you intend to reuse the existing lock. If the lock or the bolt has been damaged replacement is the best way to go.
- 2). Clamp a piece of 2-inch angle iron to the edge of the door with C clamps. The piece should extend well beyond the damaged area to be effective. Position the clamps above and below the damage. Use a hammer to tap any torn metal, surrounding the original screw holes down flat. Straighten the door edge, if needed, by clamping it firmly against the angle to straighten it. Tighten the clamp slowly to allow the metal to bend back slowly.
- 3). Remove the clamps and set the angle iron aside. Position one of the screws into its original hole. Measure the damaged area around the screw hole. Buy two heavy washers, with a hole the size of the screws and large enough to cover and reinforce the damaged area. Buy new screws the same size and thread as the original.
- 4). Test the lock for proper function. If the bolt extends and retracts as it should and the body of the lock is not bent beyond straightening it can be reused. Replace severely damaged locks with the same size and style for easy reinstallation.
- 5). Slip the lock into the holes in the door. Thread a washer onto each new mounting screw and thread it through the hole, into the threaded pocket in the handle. Tighten the screws with a screwdriver.
- 6). Remove the striker bar from the handle-side jamb. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws. Position the new striker and mark the screw holes on the jamb. Drill pilot holes through the jamb in both screw locations with a 1/8 inch bit. Drive one 3-inch treated deck screw through each hole in the striker, through the jamb and into the frame behind for added security.
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