Door Lock Repair - How to Fix Common Problems

If a lock doesn't latch properly is a clear indication that it needs to be repaired. The testers at CR use lipstick to mark where the latch contacts the strike plate; tightening the hinge screws could fix the problem.

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

Check the Latch

The latch is the bolt that extends into the door frame to secure the lock when it is pulled back by the handle or knob. Deadbolts and positive locking latches are popular options for additional security. If the latch does not close or latch correctly, it could be caused by a misalignment between the strikeplate and latch in the door frame.

One common cause is hinges that are loose and may sag with time which causes the latch to be unable to reach the strike plate. To determine this, conduct the test of lipstick. Apply some lipstick on the edges of the latch, and then place the strip of masking tape on the strike plate. Close the door, and you'll be able to see where the latch contacts the plate. This will help you determine whether the contact is high or too low for proper operation.

If the latch is contacting the strike plate more than 1/8 inch too high or too low, Window Repair Service (Https://1.Biqund.Com/Index/D1?Diff=0&Utm_Source=Ogdd&Utm_Campaign=26607&Utm_Content=&Utm_Clickid=3I84K0S480K04Kws&Aurl=Http%3A%2F%2Fwww.Repairmywindowsanddoors.Co.Uk%2Fharlow-Windowrepair%2F&Pushmode=Popup) you'll have to reposition the strike plate. Fortunately, this is an easy job that can be completed without having to take the door off. You'll need an extension file to increase the size of your strike plate hole. The most suitable file is a half-round, since it's a good match to the curve of the strike plate hole.

After repositioning the strike plate, you will need to tighten screws that attach it to the frame of the door. This should allow your door to close and latch properly. If this isn't working, tighten the hinge screws on either side of the door 24 Hour window repair and check if this helps.

If the latch remains out of alignment after the lubrication process, you'll need take more drastic steps. You can remove the strike plate and then use a chisel that is sharp on the mortise of the strike plate to allow you to move the latch up and down. Alternatively, window seal repair you can employ a metal file to shape the strike plate so that it will fit better into the mortise. You may want to think about this option if you are worried about the strike plate coming off while traveling in your RV.

Make sure you check the Keyway

If your lock is not working properly, you may be leaving your home open to burglars. The good news is that some types of door lock problems can be resolved without the need of professional assistance. This is the case with a lock or a key that doesn't turn. The sooner you notice an issue and the more likely it is that you can solve it yourself.

If your keys don't fit into or turn smoothly it could have rough spots that you have to smooth off. Locksmiths can do this for you however it's a simple do-it-yourself project that you can try at home. Place the key in and move it around searching for a place that is causing friction. If you find any of these spots, use a metal file to smooth out the rough areas.

Another common upvc door repairs near me lock problem is a locked or jammed bolt or latch. This can be caused by debris or a damaged piece of key that has gotten stuck in the mechanism. You can use pins or needles to remove the debris. However, it is best to contact a locksmith to conduct a thorough inspection and remove the broken part.

A deadbolt that won't stay extended over the strike plate could be a sign of a faulty lock. The screws that connect the deadbolt will loosen over time and cause it to move and make your home susceptible to burglaries. The screws can be replaced to assist, but if your deadbolt continues to shift, it may be time to invest in better quality hardware.

If you're having issues with a cylinder that doesn't turn when you turn the key, the cylinder could be stuck. If this is the case, you can use a lubricant to loosen it up. You can also use a dry lubricant, graphite spray, or WD-40 to lubricate the key cylinder and eliminate any buildup. Keep a bottle of these products handy and use them regularly to ensure your locks are in good shape. A lubricated locking system will last longer than a non-lubricated one.

Check the Hinges

Loose hinges can be the cause of the cylinder of a door lock that turns easily while the door is opened but doesn't lock when closed. This issue can be solved with a simple procedure. First, tighten the hinge screws to ensure that they aren't getting sagging. If the issue continues, Door Lock Repair you might try removing or adding hinge'shims' in order to adjust the alignment. These plates made of metal are available in hardware stores or on the internet.

You can also smooth the edges of hinge mortises, which are the slots that hold the hinges to allow them to sit flush with the frame. The latch bolt might be too high or low in the strikeplate. To find out, rub some lipstick on the latch and put an area of masking tape over the strike plate. When you shut the door, the lipstick will stain the area of the tape it comes into contact with and leave a mark that will indicate whether the latch is in contact with the strike plate above or below the hole.

Lastly, if the latch isn't working properly with the strike plate, it could be due to a buildup of grime and dirt. This buildup can be eliminated with a q-tip soaked with graphite or silicone spray.

If the issue is still not fixed after using an oil-based lubricant, the lock cylinder may be seized and need to be replaced. This is a job that should be left to an expert however, it's not too difficult for anyone who has experience with basic home conservatory roof repairs. When replacing the lock cylinder, choose one that has been tested and rated the BHMA to avoid problems with fitting and finish.

The door lock hardware may be cheap or poorly constructed. This kind of lock usually requires more maintenance than a quality lock, and may not last as long. Switching to a better-quality lock is usually the best solution to this problem. The key is to choose the lock that's rated B or higher in durability to be sure it can withstand years of usage.

Make sure you check the Strike Plate

A door latch that doesn't reach the strike plate could cause a variety of problems, from blocking the door from closing and latching properly to making it more difficult to open. It's not as hard to fix as it appears. Sagging hinges, gravity and even movement of the home foundation can cause the latch to not align with the strike plate but often a few simple adjustments can fix the issue.

If tightening and lubricating the hinges isn't enough it could be necessary to move the strike plate to a different position to align with the latch. To do this, you must first take off the strike plate and mark where the latch is in contact with it. You can use lipstick, caulk or a strip of masking tape that will stain when you close the door to mark this spot. If the mark is below the spot where the strike plate hole is, this indicates that the latch is not hitting the plate sufficiently high. A lower strike plate could solve the issue. If the mark is above the strike plate hole you can move the strike plate upwards a small amount.

Once you know which direction the strike plate must be adjusted, take it from the frame. keep the screws in a safe location to replace them later. You will also have to lubricate keyway of the strike plate to ensure that it is able to move smoothly.

Then, you must determine if the contact point of the latch is located above or below the strike hole in the plate. You can do this with paint, lipstick, or chalk. After closing the door, open it to check where the mark was left on the masking tape or latch. If the mark is located below the strikeplate, this means that the latch is striking the strikeplate too low. A higher position for the strikeplate can solve the issue.

To make the adjustment make the adjustment, remove the strike plate from the mortise, and then expand it with a sharp knife or chisel and an hammer to allow for the strike plate to move upwards or downwards to match the position of the latch. Test the door after the strike plate is moved to make sure that it latches and closes easily. Once you've made the adjustments, you'll have to reconnect the strikeplate to the door's frame and fill any old screwholes or gaps with woodfiller that matches the rest of the frame.