By Gene and Katie Hamilton

A patio door is a popular feature in today's homes because it provides light, air and easy access to outdoor living space. Unfortunately, it also provides an accessible entry for burglars because the built-in lock can be disabled and because the door is typically in the back or on the side of the house, where it's concealed from view. Many see a patio door makes a home vulnerable so a lock is a popular addition. You can feel more protected from home intrusion by installing a lock designed specifically for a patio door.

There are several different models of locks for patio doors. One is designed to lock in several positions, allowing a 3-inch ventilation opening without minimizing security. This kind of lock is also an effective way to childproof a house and keep little ones from getting out while still allowing the breeze to enter.

A handyman will charge $160 to install a patio door lock, which includes labor and material; but you can buy the lock for $50 and install it and save 69 percent. Tools you'll need include a power drill with bits and square head and Phillips head screwdrivers. You'll also need scissors and tape to attach the installation template.

Looking for a handyman to do the job? Click here to get to Home Advisor and it will open in a new tab and you’ll have to answer some basic questions about your job followed by Handyman Contractors in your area.

Here's a link to a selection of patio door locks Automatic Door and Hardware.

Wrapping up, given the average cost to install a patio door lock you can compare the price of a contractor’s bid with doing it yourself. For a local cost input your ZIP Code.

Improvement and Repair Cost Updated 2019

The cost and time data is generated by averaging labor and material data from annually updated cost books used by contractors and refined by the authors' experience remodeling 13 houses. They are authors of 20 home improvement books and Do It Yourself or Not, a weekly column syndicated by Tribune Content Agency. The national cost can be adjusted by ZIP Code.