How to Tell If Your Locks Need Repair
If your door lock is hard to turn, lubricating it might help. If it is wiggles when you insert the key and the lock is not turning, it's time to contact for a professional repair or replacement.
In some instances an upgraded more secure lock could be more cost-effective than trying to fix an old lock.
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If the lock's cylinder feels stiff or your key isn't turning easily, this could indicate that the cylinder has been damaged. A broken cylinder could leave your door vulnerable to burglars. It is best to fix it as soon as is possible. If you're unable to fix it yourself, you should call a locksmith.
Rust and corrosion are the most common causes of problems with cylinder locks. You can stop it by regularly painting the lock surface with an anti-corrosive coating. Also, make sure that the weather strip is in good working order. This could cause water to seep into the cylinder, which can weaken it over time.
A misalignment of the cylinder with the keyhole in the door is a common issue. This can be caused by many reasons, such as loose screws or an incorrectly aligned keyway on the handle. To fix this the first step is to take off the screws that hold the cylinder, and then gently adjust it. Make sure not to tighten the screws too much because this could cause damage to the parts.
An effective way to keep your cylinder in good shape is to use a graphite-based lubricant. It is available at hardware stores and can be applied directly to the cylinder. The lubricant helps the key move smoothly, and helps prevent future lock problems.
If the cylinder is totally damaged, you may need to replace it. Fortunately, this is a relatively easy job that can be accomplished at home. The first step is to take off the faceplate from the lock. Once this is done, you can begin to disassemble the lock the cylinder. Once you have removed the cylinder, you should note any set screws fixing it to the cylinder. It is essential to record these screws for later reassembly.
The last thing to do is make use of a screwdriver with an extremely fine tip to access the narrower areas of the lock. It is also advisable to keep a few plastic ziplock bags on hand to keep the pieces you remove for future reference.
Knobs or handles that are loose
Over time, door handles or knobs will become loose. If this happens, it could cause a lot of inconvenience to employees and customers. The good thing is that this issue is usually easy to fix and doesn't require a professional locksmith service.
In general, doorknobs that are loose are often the result of the same problems that cause locks to move and pull away from the doors: wear and age; loose screws; and mismatched components. It is also possible that the building or property has settled slightly and this can affect the way a door handle rests on the lock.
It is possible to fix loose knobs or handles however, you need the correct tools. Be sure to not to over tighten the screw. This could damage the handle or doorknob. It's also a good idea to have a second hand available to assist you in tightening and twisting the doorknob.
First, it is important to locate 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 expose the mounting rings of 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.
Some of the newer doorknobs use different methods of fastening. The doorknobs are fastened to doors with hidden screws and a device referred as a detent. This type of fastener may be a bit more complicated however, it can be fixed with the same steps.
After the screw has been tightened it is a good idea for you to place a washer over the screw. This will stop the screw from loosening in the future. This is particularly crucial for wooden door knobs which may develop a stripped screw hole from repeated use. Washers are available at any hardware store, and they're a quick and simple solution to stop a daily inconvenience. Select a washer that matches the screw on the doorknob.
Keys that are poorly cut
The most common reason for a key not to turn inside the lock is because it was poorly cut. This could be due to a bad copy made by locksmiths, or simply because the original key has worn down over time. If you're looking to have keys copied or have your locks changed, it is important to use a reputable local locksmith.
A locksmith should always inspect keys for the correct depth of cuts, and also ensure that the cuts are evenly distributed across the key. A good locksmith will inspect the lock and identify the issue. They will then suggest a solution, such as replacing the pins or adjusting your lock's cylinder.
It's an excellent idea to bring the key that isn't able to rotate when you visit a locksmith so they can check it out in their duplicator. This will make sure that the key is cut correctly and that it will fit your locks correctly.
If the key won't fully fit into the lock, it could be due to dirt or other debris that have accumulated in the lock. Lubricating the lock with graphite spray or a silicone-based lubricant could help unblock tumblers that are stuck or blocked.
A key that was not cut precisely when it was made is a frequent issue. This could happen when someone attempts to create an inexpensive copy from an existing key. It is crucial to be sure to work with a professional locksmith who has the tools and experience required to create high-quality copies.
If a key has snapped off in the lock you can try to hold it with needle-nosed pliers or even a pair of tweezers. Be careful not to push the edge of the pliers or the tweezers to far, as this can cause the problem to get worse. Also, it is much easier for professionals to remove the broken piece without causing further damage to the lock mechanism. It is recommended to bring the broken key when you go to the locksmith, so that they can use their duplicator to create a replacement for you.
Sagging Locks
A loose lock could be the reason of your inability to lock your door. This can cause the bolt or latch to jam in the door frame and this can make closing the door more difficult. This could cause drafts and create a bigger gap between the door frame and the door. Both of them can be damaged in time.
Fortunately, sagging locks are simple to fix. You can usually fix them by tightening the screws on the hinges. If that doesn't help you, try lubricating the lock. You can try using graphite powder or a silicone-based lubricant. Select a lubricant that won't harm the lock over time.
Another common problem that can hinder the ability of the door to shut and open properly is a faulty locking system. This can be caused by a door not being installed correctly, or a climate change that can cause the doors and frames to move. This problem, if not addressed, can leave your home or business more vulnerable.
To correct this issue, you'll need to start by examining the door as well as frame to see whether they're at the same level. If they're not, you'll need to move the hinges of the door to ensure that they're aligned at the correct height.
Next, you'll need to look at the strike plate and mortise. You can move the strike plate if it's sliding with a hammer, or chisel. After you have relocated it and tested it, ensure it is in alignment with the latch.
If you're having issues with your lock, it may be time to contact a professional locksmith. Locksmiths can fix any lock, no matter if it's a Yale lock or a mortice lock.
Only certain lock damages can be repaired. You should never attempt to bend a damaged bolt back to its original position, as this will weaken it and may cause damage to the cylinder. It is best to consult an expert if you're having issues that are serious. They'll be able to examine the damage, and tell you what your options are.