How to Open a Patio Door
Most of the time a patio door can be easily opened. However, there are many different models with different opening devices. In order to properly open your patio door you'll need to be familiar with the opening mechanism installed on it.
- Disengage any locks that are located on the patio door. Some patio doors may be equipped with more than one lock, usually for child safety or to keep intruders from easily entering your home. The locks are usually located near or above the door handle, and they will all have to be unlocked in order to open the door. A lot of patio door models contain a lever lock device located directly on the door handle. Simply flip this device up or down to lock or unlock the door. If the lock requires a key, you'll need to insert it to unlock the door.
- Find the opening mechanism on the door. Some patio doors are equipped with handles, while others may have knobs. Knobs will need to be turned with your hand and handles will need to be pulled toward the center. Some patio doors are installed on a sliding track and some are swinging doors on hinges.
- Hold the door open wide enough for yourself or others to pass through. Be careful when carrying heavy objects that may obstruct your view through the doorway.
- Shut the door in the same manner that you opened it and engage all locks to keep children from escaping or to increase security.