Lock Repair: What Nobody Is Talking About

Door Lock Repair - How to Fix Common Problems

A lock that isn't latching properly is a clear sign that it needs to be repaired. CR's testers mark the area where the latch is in contact with the strike plate with lipstick. In tightening the hinge screws could solve the problem.

Spraying a dry lubricant like powdered graphite, or WD-40 on the lock's cylinder can also help.

Check the Latch

The latch is the bolt that extends into the door frame to secure the lock after it is pulled by the knob or handle. Deadbolts and positive locking latches are popular choices for window companies added security. If the latch doesn't close or latch properly, the problem may be a misalignment between the latch and strike plate within the door double glazed front doors frame.

A common cause is hinges that have become loose, and they may sag with time which causes the latch to be unable to reach the strike plate. Make use of a lipstick test to determine. Smear some lipstick on the edge of the latch, and then attach a strip of masking tape to the strike plate. Close the door window companies and you'll be able to see where the latch connects to the plate. This will let you determine whether the contact is high or low for proper operation.

You'll need the replacement of a strike plate when the latch is more than 1/8" too low or high. This is a simple job that can usually be done without the need to remove the doors. You will need to use a filing tool to expand the strike plate hole. A half-round file is best since it matches the shape of the strike hole on the plate.

Once the strike plate is repositioned, you'll need to tighten the screws that connect it to the door frame. This should be enough to allow your door to shut and latch properly. If not, you can try tightening the hinge screws on the other side of the door to see if it helps.

If the latch is not in alignment even after lubrication, you will need to take more extreme measures. You can take off the strike plate and then use a chisel that is sharp on the mortise of the strike plate, allowing you to move the latch up and down. You could also use a metal filing to shape your strike plate to fit better into the mortise. You may want to think about this option if worried about the strike plate falling off while traveling in your RV.

Make sure you check the Keyway

If your lock is not working properly, you could be leaving your home open to burglars. Certain door lock issues can be fixed without the assistance of an expert. This includes a lock that won't turn. If you can identify a problem, you are more likely to fix it yourself.

If your key doesn't go in or turn easily It could have rough spots that you need to smooth off. A locksmith can do this for you however, it's also a simple do-it-yourself project that you can do at home. Move the key around until you can locate the spot that is causing friction. If you spot any of these, use a fine metal filing to smooth the rough areas.

Another frequent issue with door locks is a jammed or locked latch or bolt. This could be caused by debris or by keys that have broken and lodged itself in the mechanism. You can use a needle or pin to get rid of the debris. However, it is best to call a locksmith to conduct a thorough inspection and to remove the broken piece.

A deadbolt that isn't extending through the strike plate could also be an indication of a faulty locking mechanism. Over time, the screws that hold your deadbolt together may loosen and cause it shift. This can make your home more vulnerable to burglars. If the deadbolt still shifts it is possible to upgrade the hardware.

If you're having issues with a cylinder that won't turn when you turn the key, your key cylinder may be stuck. If this is the case, you can make use of a lubricant in order to loosen it up. You can also make use of dry lubricant or WD-40 spray to lubricate and eliminate any buildup. These products can be kept in a handy bottle and used on a regular basis to keep your locks in good condition. A lock that is lubricated will last longer than a non-lubricated one.

Check the Hinges

A loose hinge could be the cause of the cylinder of a door lock that rotates easily when the door is opened but does not lock when closed. This issue can be solved with a simple procedure. First tighten the screws on the hinges to ensure they're not sagging. If the problem persists you might try removing or adding the hinge's shims' to alter the alignment. These plates made of small metal are available at hardware stores and online.

You can also sand the edges of the mortises on the hinges, the slots that hold the hinges to help them sit in a straight line with the frame. Another common cause of trouble locking is that the bolt for the latch may be too high or low in the strike plate. To determine this, place a small amount of lipstick on the latch. Then, place a strip of masking tape over the strike plate. When you close the door, the lipstick will stain the area of the tape that it touches, leaving a mark that indicates whether the latch contacts the strike plate above or below the hole.

If the latch doesn't work properly with the strikeplate, it could be due to dirt or grime. A q-tip soaked in graphite or silicon spray can dislodge this obstruction, allowing the lock to function exactly as it should.

If the issue is still not fixed after using a lubricant, the lock cylinder may be stuck and require to be replaced. It's a job best left to an expert however, it's not too difficult for anyone who has experience with basic home upvc window repairs. When replacing the lock cylinder, look for one that's tested and rated by the BHMA to avoid issues with fit and finish.

The hardware for the door lock could be unprofessional or poorly made. This type of lock may require more maintenance and last longer than a lock of a higher quality. Switching to a better-quality lock can usually solve this issue. To ensure that your lock will last for many years, select a lock with a durability rating of B or greater.

Make sure you check the Strike Plate

A door latch that doesn't reach the strike plate can cause a variety of issues. It may hinder the door from closing and latching properly, or make it more difficult to unlock. It's not as difficult to fix it as it appears. The force of gravity, sagging hinges, and even movement of the home foundation can cause the latch to misalign with the strike plate, but often a few simple adjustments can fix the issue.

If tightening the hinges and lubricating the keyway does not solve the issue, the strike plate may require to be moved to a different position in order in order to align with the latch. To do this, you must first take off the strike plate and mark the spot where the latch makes contact with it. You can use lipstick, caulk or a strip of masking tape that will stain as you close the door to mark this spot. If the mark is located below the strike plate hole, it indicates that the latch is hitting the plate too high. an lower strike plate position can resolve the problem. If the mark is higher than the strikeplate hole you may need to move the strikeplate upwards.

When you've determined which direction the strike plate has to be adjusted, take it from the frame and keep the screws in a secure place so you can replace them later. It is also necessary to grease the strike plate's keyway to ensure it moves smoothly.

Then, determine if the contact point of the latch is located above or below the strike plate hole. This can be done by applying paint, lipstick or chalk to the latch. After closing the door open it up and check whether the mark remains visible on the latch or masking. If the mark is lower than the strike plate, this indicates that the latch is hitting the strike plate too low and an upper strike plate position will fix the issue.

To adjust the strike plate, you must remove it from the mortise. Then using a sharp knife, chisel or hammer, make the plate wider so that it can be moved downwards or upwards to match the position of the latch. After the strike plate has been moved, check the door to ensure it shuts and latches smoothly. Once you've finished the adjustments, it's time to reattach the strikeplate to the door's frame and fill any holes or gaps with woodfiller that is in line with the rest of the frame.