Locks Repair's History History Of Locks Repair
How to Tell If Your Locks Need Repair
Lubricating your door lock may aid. If it moves when you insert the key then it's time to call for a professional repair or replacement.
In some cases it might be more cost effective to replace a lock with a safer one.
Cylinder Damage
The cylinder could be damaged if it is stiff or when the key doesn't move smoothly. A damaged cylinder can make your door open to burglars. It is recommended to repair it in the shortest time possible. If you're unable to fix it yourself, contact a locksmith.
Cylinder lock problems are typically caused by corrosion and rust over time. You can stop it by regularly painting the lock surface with an anti-corrosive coating. Make sure that the weather strip is also in good working order. This could cause water to enter the cylinder and weaken it over time.
Another common problem is when the cylinder is misaligned with the keyhole on the door. This can be caused by a number of reasons, including a loose screw or a misaligned keyway in the handle. To fix it you'll need to take out the screws that hold the cylinder. Then, gently adjust it. Be careful not to tighten them too much because this could damage the parts.
Use a graphite-based lubricant to keep your cylinder working efficiently. It is typically available at hardware stores and can be applied directly to the cylinder. The lubricant will help the key turn easily and will also assist in preventing future lock issues.
You may need to replace the cylinder if it is completely damaged. This is a relatively simple task you can complete at home. The first step is to take off the faceplate from the lock. After removing the faceplate, you can begin disassembling your lock cylinder. After you've removed the cylinder, you should note any set screws that are keeping it in place. These are important to be aware of to be able to reassemble it later.
Also, make sure to make use of a screwdriver with a fine tip for getting into small spaces within the lock. It is also recommended to have some ziplock bags in order to store the parts you take out.
Loose Knobs or Handles
Over time, door handles or knobs can get loose. This could be a major inconvenience for both employees and customers. The good part is that this issue is usually fixable and doesn't require a professional locksmith service.
Most commonly, loose doorknobs are caused by the same issues that cause locks to jiggle or pull away from the door: wear and age loose screws and incompatible components. It is also possible that your home or business has moved slightly. This could affect how tightly the door handle is tacked to the lock.
Handles or knobs that are loose could be easy to repair But it is crucial to use the correct tools and be cautious not to over tighten the screw. This could damage the handle or doorknob. It's recommended to have an extra hand to hold on to, as it can provide leverage or aid in the twisting and tightening process.
It is first important to locate the screw that is loose. The screw is usually hidden under an attractive cap that covers the locking ring. You will need to depress the lever or button using an awl or the point of a small screwdriver with a flat blade in order to remove the cover and expose the ring that holds the lockset. The nut can be tightened by turning it counterclockwise.
Some modern doorknobs are made with a different 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 more complicated however, it can be fixed with the same steps.
It is a good idea to place washers on the screw after it has been tightened, it will stop the screw from loosening again in the future. This is especially crucial for wooden doorknobs which may have a damaged screw hole from repeated use. Washers are readily available at any hardware store and are an easy and quick way to solve a daily problem. Make sure you select one that is suitable to the screw you use on the doorknob.
Poorly cut key
Keys that are not cut properly are the most common reason why a key isn't turning inside your lock. This could be due to a poor duplicate made by a locksmith, or because the original key has worn down over time. If you're looking to have keys copied or your locks changed, it is essential to choose a reputable local locksmith.
A locksmith will always examine keys for the correct cut depth, and also ensure that the cuts are evenly distributed across the key. A professional locksmith will examine the lock to determine the reason for the issue and come up with an answer for you, whether it's replacing the pins or adjusting the lock cylinder.
Bring the key that won't turn to a locksmith, so they can check it on their duplicator. This will make sure that the key is cut correctly, and it is a good fit for your locks.
If a key doesn't fit completely 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 lubricant based on silicone can aid in removing tumblers that are stuck or blocked.
Another issue that is common is that keys were not cut precisely when it was originally created. This could happen when someone attempts to make an inexpensive copy from an existing key. Only a locksmith with the necessary tools and training can make high-quality duplicates.
If a key has snapped off inside the lock, you can try to hold the broken piece with needle-nosed pliers, or even a pair tweezers. You should avoid inserting the tip of pliers or the tweezers too deep. This can cause the problem to get worse. It is easier for a locksmith to take out the broken piece without causing damage to the lock mechanism. It is recommended to bring the broken key when you visit the locksmith to use their duplicator to create the replacement for you.
Sagging Locks
A sliding lock could be a cause of your difficulty locking your door. This could cause the bolt or latch to get stuck within the door frame and it can make closing the door more difficult. This can cause drafts and create a larger gap between the frame and the door. Both are susceptible to damage as time passes.
It is easy to repair sagging locks. Usually they can be fixed by tightening screws on hinges. If lock repair & services near me doesn't help then you can try to lubricate the lock. You can use powdered graphite or a silicone-based lubricant. Choose a lubricant which won't cause damage to the lock over the course of time.
Another common problem that can affect the ability of a door to properly shut and open is a misaligned locking system. This could be caused by a door not being installed correctly, or by an extreme temperature change that can cause the doors and frames to move. If not addressed, can leave your home or business more vulnerable.
It is first necessary to ensure that the frame and door are on the same plane. If not then you'll need to adjust the hinges to the correct height and alignment.
Next, you'll need to examine the strike plate and mortise. If the strike plate is sliding out and is not repositioning properly, you can fix it with a hammer and chisel. After you've repositioned it check it to make sure that it's aligned with the latch.
If you're having issues with your lock, it might be time to call an expert locksmith. A locksmith can fix any lock, regardless of whether it's a Yale lock or a mortice lock.
Only certain damages to locks can be repaired. It is not recommended to bend the damaged bolt back into place, as this will weaken the bolt and possibly damage the cylinder itself. It is best to consult a professional if you are experiencing serious issues. They'll be able to examine the damage, and tell you what options are available.