How to Tell If Your Locks Need Repair
Lubricating your door lock with oil may help. If it is wiggles when the key is inserted, it's time to call for a professional repair or replacement.
In some instances the case, a newer more secure lock could be more affordable than trying to fix a damaged lock.
Damaged Cylinder
The cylinder could be damaged if it feels stiff or when the key doesn't turn smoothly. A damaged cylinder could make your door vulnerable to burglary and should be fixed as soon as is possible. You can try lubricating the lock to see if it helps however, if you are unable to fix it yourself it is recommended that a locksmith be contacted.
Cylinder lock problems are often caused by rust and corrosion over time. You can stop it by regularly painting the lock surface with a protective coating. Also, make sure that the weather strip is in good working order. This can cause water to enter the cylinder, which can weaken it over time.
Another common problem is when the cylinder is not aligned with the keyhole on the door. This can be caused by various factors, including loose bolts or a misaligned keyway for the handle. To fix the issue you'll have to take off the screws that attach the cylinder. Then, gently adjust the cylinder. Be careful not to tighten the screws too much because this could cause damage to the components.
Use a graphite-based lubricant to ensure your cylinder runs properly. It is available at hardware stores, and can be put directly to the cylinder. The lubricant helps the key turn smoothly, and will prevent any future lock issues.
If the cylinder is completely damaged, you may have to replace it. This is a simple job that you can tackle 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 have removed the cylinder from its mounting, you should note any set screws holding it in the position. It is important to keep these screws in mind for assembly.
Also, make sure to use a screwdriver that has a fine tip for getting into 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 for later reference.
Handles or Knobs with loose knobs
Over time, door handles or knobs will get loose. If this happens, it can be a major inconvenience for employees and customers. The good thing is that this issue is usually easy to fix and doesn't require a specialist locksmith service.
In general, loose doorknobs are often the result of the same issues that cause locks to jiggle and pull away from doors: wear and tear loose screws, mismatched components. It's also possible that your house or business may have moved slightly. This can influence how tightly the door handle is attached to the lock.
Loose knobs or handles may be easy to repair, but it is important to have the proper tools and to be aware not to over tighten the screw. This could cause damage to the doorknob or handle. It's also beneficial to have a second hand available to assist you in tightening and twisting the doorknob.
It is crucial to locate the screw that is loose. This is normally found under the cover, which is decorative and protects the lockset mounting ring. To remove the decorative cover and reveal the lockset mounting rings you must push a lever or button using an awl. It is then possible to tighten the nut by turning it counterclockwise.
Some newer doorknobs are designed with a different method of fixing. These doorknobs attach to the doors using hidden screws and a device referred to as a detent. This type of fastener may be more complicated but it is still fixed with the same steps.
click for source is recommended to put washers on the screw after it has been tightened, it will stop the screw from becoming loose to the point of becoming loose in the future. This is particularly important for door knobs made of wood which may develop an eroded screw hole due to repeated use. Washers are readily available at any hardware store and are a simple and quick way to solve any problem you encounter. Be sure to select a washer that is appropriate for the screw that is used in your doorknob.
Poorly cut key
The most common reason for a key not to turn into your lock is because it was not cut properly. It could be due to a poor duplicate made by locksmiths, or simply because the original key has deteriorated over time. It is crucial to only employ a reputable locksmith if you require keys copied or your locks changed.
A locksmith must always inspect a key to determine the correct cut depth and ensure that they are evenly spaced across the key. A good locksmith will also look over the lock to find the root of the problem and then come up with the best solution for you, whether it's replacing the pins or altering the lock cylinder.
It's a good idea to bring the key that isn't able to rotate when you visit a locksmith, so they can test it in their duplicator. This will ensure that the key has been cut correctly, and it fits your locks properly.
If the key is unable to fully insert into the lock, it could be due to dirt or other debris that have built up in the lock. Lubricating the lock with graphite spray or a silicone-based lubricant could aid in removing tumblers that are stuck or clogged.
A key that was not cut exactly when it was made is a frequent issue. This can happen if someone attempts to make a low-cost and quick copy of an existing key. It is essential to choose a locksmith who is professional and has the tools and training necessary to make high-quality copies.
If you have a broken key in the lock, you can use a pair of needle-nosed pliers or tweezers it. You should not insert the tip of pliers or the tweezers too far. This can cause the problem to get worse. It is much easier for a locksmith to cut off the broken piece without damaging the lock mechanism. Bring the damaged key to the locksmith and have them create a new key using their duplicator.
Sagging Locks
A sagging lock could be the reason of your difficulty locking your door. This could cause the latch or bolt to jam within the door frame and it could make closing the door more difficult. It can also lead to drafts, and create a larger gap between the door and the frame and could cause damage to both in the course of time.
Luckily, sagging locks are easy to repair. Usually you can fix them by tightening the screws on hinges. If that doesn't help you, try lubricating the lock. You can use graphite powder, or a silicone based oil. Make sure to choose a lubricant that won't harm the lock over time.
Another common problem that can hinder the ability of doors to shut and open properly is a faulty locking system. This could be caused by a door not being installed correctly, or the weather changing, which can cause the doors and frames to move. If ignored, could make your home or business vulnerable.
To fix this first, you'll need to start by examining the door as well as 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 inspect the mortise and strike plate. You can move the strike plate if it is sliding using a hammer or chisel. After you've repositioned it and tested it, ensure it is in alignment with the latch.
If you're having trouble with your lock, it may be time to call a professional locksmith. A locksmith can repair any lock, no matter if it's a Yale lock or mortice lock.
Remember that only certain kinds of lock damage can be repaired. Do not attempt to bend the damaged bolt back into its place in order to weaken the bolt and possibly damage the cylinder itself. It's best to call in an expert if you're having issues that are serious. They'll be able to assess the damage, and let you know what options you have.