Your sliding door lock is your home’s first line of defense, so when it starts acting up, you don’t want to brush it off. In this straight-talking guide, we’re sharing the telltale signs that your lock is crying for help—think sticky keys, loose handles, or a lock that just won’t catch.

We’ve seen plenty of locks go from ‘kinda wonky’ to ‘total fail,’ and we’re here to help you catch problems early. You’ll learn what to look for, why these issues mess with your security, and quick checks you can do yourself. Some fixes are simple, but others need a pro to keep your home safe and sound.

Don’t wait for a break-in to take action. Let’s dive into those red flags and get your sliding door lock back in fighting shape!