Locks Repair: It's Not As Difficult As You Think
How to Tell If Your Locks Need Repair
If your door lock is difficult to turn, lubricating it could aid. If it is wiggles when the key is inserted and the lock is not turning, it's time to contact for a professional repair or replacement.
In some instances, a newer, more secure lock might be more affordable than trying to fix a damaged lock.
Damaged Cylinder
If the lock's cylinder feels stiff or the key isn't turning smoothly, this is an indication that the cylinder is damaged. A broken cylinder can leave your home vulnerable to burglaries and should be repaired immediately. If you can't fix it yourself, call an expert locksmith.
Rust and corrosion are among the most frequently cited causes of problems with cylinder locks. You can prevent this by applying a regular coat of paint on the surface of the lock. Make sure that the weather strip is also in good working order. If not, this can cause water to leak in and weaken the cylinder with time.
A misalignment between the cylinder and the keyhole in the door is another frequent issue. This could be due to many reasons, such as loose bolts or a misaligned keyway for the handle. To fix the issue you'll need to take out the screws that secure the cylinder. Then slowly adjust it. Make sure not to tighten the screws too much, as this can damage the components.
A good way to keep your cylinder in good working order is to use a graphite-based lubricant. g28carkeys.co.uk is available in hardware stores and can be applied directly on the cylinder. The lubricant helps the key turn easily and will also assist in preventing future lock issues.
If the cylinder is severely damaged, you might need to replace it. It's an easy task that can be accomplished at home. The first step is to remove the faceplate from the lock. After removing the faceplate, you can start disassembling the lock cylinder. Once you have removed the cylinder, you should note any set screws keeping it in place. It is important to record these screws for later reassembly.
Lastly, be sure to use a screwdriver that has a fine tip for getting into narrow areas within the lock. It is also recommended to have some ziplock bags in order to store the parts you remove.
Knobs or Handles that are Loose
As time passes and usage increases, door knobs or handles will get loose. This can cause a huge problem for employees as well as customers. This issue is usually easy to fix, and does not require the assistance of a locksmith.
In general, loose doorknobs are often the result of the same factors that cause locks to jiggle and pull away from the doors: wear and age; loose screws; and incompatible components. It's also possible that your house or business may have settled slightly. This could affect the way that the door handle is secured to the lock.
It is possible to fix knobs or handles that are loose however, you need the proper tools. Also, be careful not to tighten the screw too much. This could cause damage to the doorknob or handle. It's also beneficial to have a second hand available to help you twist and tighten the doorknob.
First, it is important to identify the screw that is loose. It's usually hidden under an attractive cover that protects the ring that holds the lockset. To remove the decorative cover and expose the mounting rings of the lockset it is necessary to push a lever or button using an awl. It is then possible to tighten the nut by turning it counterclockwise.
Some modern doorknobs are made with a different method of fixing. These use a device called a detent and are attached to the door using concealed screws. This type of fastener could be a bit more complicated however, it can be fixed using the same steps.
It is a good idea to place a washer on the screw after it has been tightened, it will stop the screw from loosening and loose again in the future. This is particularly important for wooden door knobs which may develop holes that are stripped from repeated use. You can buy washers at any hardware store, and they are a quick and simple solution to eliminate a regular hassle. Select a washer that matches the screw in the doorknob.
Poorly cut key
Keys that are not cut properly are the most common cause of a key not turning inside your lock. It could be the result of a poor copy from locksmiths or the original key wearing down over time. If you require keys copied or your locks changed, it is essential to choose a reputable local locksmith.
A locksmith should always examine a key to determine the appropriate depth of cuts and to ensure that they are evenly spaced across the key. A reputable locksmith will look over the lock and identify the problem. They can then offer an answer, for example, replacing the pins or adjusting your lock's cylinder.
Bring the key that will not turn to a locksmith so they can check it on their duplicator. This will ensure that the new key is cut correctly and that it fits your lock properly.
If the key is unable to fully insert into the lock, it could be due to dirt or debris that have accumulated inside 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 exactly when it was made is another frequent issue. This can happen when someone attempts to make an inexpensive copy from an existing key. Only a locksmith equipped with the tools and knowledge required can create high-quality duplicates.
If you have a broken key in the lock you can use a pair needle-nosedpliers or tweezers to remove it. Be careful not to insert the edge of the pliers or the tweezers to far, because this could cause more damage and it's much easier for a professional to pull the broken piece out without creating further damage to the lock mechanism. Bring the damaged key to the locksmith and have them make a new one with their duplicator.
Sagging Locks
A sagging lock could be the reason of your difficulty locking your door. This could cause the bolt or latch to get stuck within the frame of the door, making it more difficult to close the door. This can lead to drafts and create a larger gap between the frame and the door. Both can be damaged over time.
Fortunately, sagging locks can be simple to fix. Usually you can fix them by tightening the screws on hinges. If this doesn't work then you can try to lubricate the lock. You can try using graphite powder or a silicon based lubricant. Make sure to choose a lubricant that won't harm the lock over time.
A misaligned lock is a common issue that could affect a door's ability to open and close correctly. This could be caused by a door not being installed correctly, or a climate change that can cause the doors and frames to move. If not addressed the issue could leave your home or business vulnerable to robbers.
First, you'll need to verify that the door and frame are on the same plane. If not, you'll need to reposition the door hinges so that they're aligned and at the correct height.
The next step is to inspect the mortise and strike plate. If the strike plate is sliding out and you want to reposition it, try with a hammer and chisel. Once you have moved it back and checked it, ensure it is in alignment with the latch.
Contact a locksmith if have issues with your lock. If you own a Yale lock mortice lock, a mortice lock, or uPVC lock, a locksmith can help you solve the issue and make sure that your door is secure.
Only certain damages to locks can be repaired. Never try to bend a damaged bolt back into its original position. This could weaken the bolt and break the cylinder. If you're experiencing serious issues you should contact a professional. They'll evaluate the damage and let you know what options are available.