How to Tell If Your Locks Need Repair
If your door lock is difficult to turn, lubricating it might help. If the lock is wiggles when you insert the key, it's time to call an expert for repair or replacement.
In some instances an upgraded, more secure lock might be more cost-effective than trying to repair an old one.
Damaged Cylinder
The cylinder could be damaged if it feels stiff or if the key does not move smoothly. A broken cylinder could leave your door open to burglars. It should be repaired as quickly as possible. You can try lubricating your lock to see if it helps, but if you cannot repair it on your own then a locksmith should be contacted.
Rust and corrosion are the most frequently cited causes of problems with cylinder locks. You can prevent this by regularly applying a protective coating of paint on the surface of the lock. Make sure that the weather strip is in good condition. This can cause water to enter the cylinder, which can weaken it over time.
A misalignment between the cylinder and the keyhole of the door is another frequent problem. This could be due to various factors, including loose bolts or a misaligned handle keyway. To fix the issue you'll need to take out the screws that attach the cylinder. Then you can gently adjust it. Be cautious not to tighten them too tightly as this could cause damage to the components.
Make use of a graphite lubricant in order to keep your cylinder working properly. It is available at hardware stores, and can be applied directly on the cylinder. The lubricant makes the key move smoothly, and helps prevent future lock problems.
You may have to replace the cylinder if it is completely damaged. This is a relatively simple task you can tackle at home. The first step is removing the faceplate. After you have removed the faceplate, you can begin disassembling the lock cylinder. After you've removed the cylinder, you should note any set screws that are keeping it in place. These are important to identify for reassembly later on.
The last thing to do is make use of a screwdriver that has a fine tip to get into the smaller areas of the lock. It is also advisable to keep a few ziplock bags on hand to store the components you take out for later reference.
Loose Knobs or Handles
With time and use, door knobs or handles will get loose. If this happens, it could be a major inconvenience for employees and customers. This issue is usually easy to fix and does not require the assistance of a locksmith.
In general, doorknobs that are loose are the result of the same issues that cause locks to move or pull away from the door: age and wear loose screws and mismatched components. It is also possible that your house or business may have moved slightly. This can affect the way that the door handle is secured to the lock.
Loose knobs or handles may be easy to repair However, it is essential to use the correct tools and be cautious not to over tighten the screw. This could cause damage to the doorknob or handle. It's also a good idea to have an extra hand to hold, provide leverage, or assist in the twisting and tightening process.
It is first important to find the screw that is loose. The screw is usually hidden behind an attractive cap that covers the mounting rings for the lockset. To remove the decorative cover and reveal the mounting rings for the lockset it is necessary to press a button or lever using an awl. It is then possible to tighten the nut by turning it counterclockwise.
locks repair are designed with a different method of fixing. These doorknobs are attached to the doors using hidden screws and a device referred as a detent. This type of fastener may be a little more complex however, it can be fixed with the same steps.
After the screw has been tightened, it is an ideal idea to apply a washer to the screw. This will stop the screw from loosening in the future. This is particularly important for wooden doorknobs which may have a damaged screw hole from repeated use. Washers are available at any hardware store, and they are a quick and simple way to end a daily nuisance. Select a washer that matches the screw that is on your doorknob.
Poorly cut key
The most common reason for a key not to turn inside the lock is because it was cut poorly. This could be due to a bad duplicate made by a locksmith, or because the original key has deteriorated over time. It is essential to use a reputable locksmith when you require keys copied or your locks rekeyed.
A locksmith should always inspect a key for the correct depth of cuts, and that they are evenly distributed across the key. A professional locksmith will examine the lock to determine the cause of the issue and come up with an answer for you, whether that's replacing the pins or adjusting the lock cylinder.
It's a good idea to bring the key that won't turn with you when you visit a locksmith, so they can check it out in their duplicator. This will ensure the new key is cut correctly and that it fits your lock properly.
If a key does not fit completely into the lock, it could be caused by dirt or debris that has accumulated in the lock. Lubricating the lock with graphite spray or a silicone-based lubricant can help to unblock tumblers that have become stuck or clogged.
Another common problem is that a key was not precisely cut when it was first created. This can happen when someone attempts to make an inexpensive and quick duplicate of an existing key. Only locksmiths with the tools and knowledge required can make high-quality duplicates.
If a key has snapped off in the lock you can try to grasp it using needle-nosed pliers or even a pair of tweezers. Be careful not to push the edge of the pliers or the tweezers to far, because this could cause the problem to get worse. Also, it will be much easier for professionals to remove the broken piece without damaging the lock mechanism. Bring the broken key to the locksmith for them make a new one using their duplicator.
Sagging Locks
If you're having trouble locking your door it could be because of a sagging lock. This could cause the latch or bolt to get stuck in the frame of the door and make it difficult to close the door. It can also cause drafts and create a larger gap between the frame and the door and could cause damage to both over time.
Fortunately, sagging locks are easy to repair. Most often you can fix them by tightening the screws on hinges. If that doesn't help, you can try lubricating the lock. You can use powdered graphite or a silicone-based lubricant. Be sure to select an oil that won't harm the lock over time.
A misaligned lock is also a common issue that could affect the door's ability and close properly. This could be caused by the door not being set up correctly, or by a climate change that causes the doors and frames to move. If untreated the issue could leave your home or business vulnerable to intruders.
To fix this first, you'll need to start by looking at the door and frame to determine if they're on the same level. If they aren't then you'll need to adjust the hinges to the proper height and alignment.
The next step is to look at the strike plate and mortise. You can move the strike plate if it is sliding using a hammer or chisel. After you've repositioned it check it to make sure that it aligns with the latch.
Call a locksmith if you have issues with your lock. Locksmiths can fix any lock, regardless of whether it's a Yale lock or a mortice lock.
Only certain damages to locks can be repaired. Do not attempt to bend the damaged bolt back into its place, as this will weaken it and could potentially break the cylinder itself. It is best to consult an expert when you're experiencing serious issues. They'll be able to assess the damage and give you more information about what options you have.