How to Tell If Your Locks Need Repair
Lubricating your door lock may aid in the process. If it wiggles around when you insert the key and the lock is not turning, it's time to contact for a professional repair or replacement.
In certain situations an upgraded, more secure lock might be more affordable than trying to fix an old lock.
Damaged Cylinder
The cylinder could be damaged if it feels stiff or if the key does not rotate smoothly. A broken cylinder could leave your door vulnerable to burglars. It should be repaired as soon as is possible. If you can't fix it yourself, call a locksmith.
Cylinder lock issues are usually caused by corrosion and rust over time. It is possible to prevent this by regularly painting the lock's surface with an anti-corrosive coating. Make sure the weather strip is also in good condition. This could cause water to enter the cylinder and weaken it over time.
Another frequent issue is when the cylinder is out of alignment with the keyhole on the door. This could be due to many reasons, including a loose screw or a misaligned keyway on the handle. To fix the issue you'll have to take off the screws that hold the cylinder. Then, gently adjust it. Make sure not to tighten the screws too tightly, as this can damage the components.
A good way to keep your cylinder in good condition is to apply a lubricant made of graphite. It can be found in hardware stores and can be applied directly to the cylinder. The lubricant helps the key turn smoothly, and also will prevent any future lock issues.
You may need to replace the cylinder if it's completely damaged. It's a fairly simple task you can do at home. The first step is to remove the faceplate. Once that's done it's time to disassemble the lock and cylinder. After you've removed your cylinder, it's important to note any set screws that are holding it in place. It is important to record these screws for later assembly.
Also, make sure to make use of a screwdriver with a fine tip for accessing tiny spaces inside the lock. You will also want to keep a few plastic ziplock bags on hand to keep the pieces you take out to be able to refer back later.
Loose Knobs or Handles
Over time and use, door knobs or handles will become loose. This can be a major issue for employees as well as customers. This problem is usually easy to fix, and does not require a locksmith service.
Most commonly, loose doorknobs are the result of the same issues that cause locks to jiggle or pull away from the door: wear and age, loose screws and the wrong combination of components. It's also possible the building or property has shifted slightly and this can affect the degree to which a door knob rests on the lock.
It is possible to fix loose knobs or handles however, you need the right tools. Be careful not overtighten the screw. This could damage the handle or doorknob. It's also a good idea to have an extra hand to hold, give leverage or aid in the twisting and tightening process.
First, it is important to identify the screw that is loose. It's usually hidden under an attractive cover that protects the lockset mounting ring. To remove the decorative cover and expose the mounting rings of the lockset you must press a button or lever using an awl. The nut can be tightened by turning it counterclockwise.
Some of the newer doorknobs have an alternative method of fixing. These doorknobs are attached to the doors using hidden screws and a device known as a detent. This type of fastener may be slightly more complicated however it is easily fixed by following the same steps above.
After the screw has been tightened, it is an ideal idea to place a washer over the screw. This will prevent the screw from loosening in the future. This is particularly important for wooden door knobs that can result in an eroded screw hole due to repeated use. Washers are available at any hardware store, and they are an quick and easy way to end a daily nuisance. Select a washer that matches the screw in the doorknob.
Keys that are poorly cut
Keys that are poorly cut are the most frequent reason for a key not turning in your lock. It could be the result of a poor copy made by locksmiths or the original key wearing down over time. It is important to only choose a reliable locksmith when you require keys copied or your locks rekeyed.
g28carkeys should always inspect a key for the correct cut depth, and ensure that they are evenly distributed across the key. A professional locksmith will inspect the lock to determine the reason for the issue and provide a solution for you, whether that's changing the pins or adjusting the lock cylinder.
It's recommended to bring the key that doesn't turn when you visit a locksmith so they can test it in their duplicator. This will ensure that the new key is cut correctly and that it fits your lock properly.
If a key is unable to insert fully into the lock it could be caused by dirt or debris that has accumulated up inside of 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 issue that is common is that a key was not cut precisely when it was first created. This can happen when someone attempts to create an inexpensive copy from an existing key. Only a locksmith equipped with the right tools and experience can create high-quality duplicates.
If you've lost a key in the lock and you want to retrieve it, you can use a pair of needle-nosed pliers or tweezers the broken key. Be careful not to insert the edge of the pliers or the tweezers to far, because this could make the problem worse and it will be much easier for professionals to remove the broken part without damaging the lock mechanism. Bring the damaged key to the locksmith to have them create a new key using their duplicator.
Sagging Locks
A sliding lock could be the reason of your difficulty locking your door. This can cause the latch or bolt to jam within the door frame and this can make closing the door more difficult. It can also lead to drafts, and it will create a bigger gap between the frame and the door and could cause damage to both in the course of time.
It is easy to repair locks that are sliding. Most often, you can fix them by tightening screws on hinges. If this doesn't work, you can try lubricating the lock. You can try using graphite powder or a silicon based fluid. Be sure to select the lubricant that doesn't damage the lock over time.
Another issue that can hinder the ability of doors to open and shut properly is a faulty locking system. This could be caused by a door not being installed correctly, or a climate change that causes the doors and frames to move. If ignored, could make your home or business vulnerable.
To fix this it is necessary to begin by examining the door and frame to see whether they're on the same level. If not it's time to move the hinges in the correct height and alignment.
Next, you'll need to examine the strike plate and mortise. You can adjust the strike plate if it's slipping using a hammer or chisel. Once you've repositioned it, test it to ensure that it aligns with the latch.
Contact a locksmith if have issues with your lock. Whether you have a Yale lock mortice lock or uPVC lock, a locksmith can help you solve the issue and ensure that your door is secure.
Only certain damage to locks can be repaired. Don't try to bend a damaged lock bolt back to its original position. This could weaken the bolt and break the cylinder. It's best to call in an expert if you're having issues that are serious. They can assess the damage, and inform you of what your options are.