How To Survive Your Boss On Lock Repair

Door Lock Repair - How to Fix Common Problems

A lock that doesn't latch properly is a clear indication that it needs to be repaired. The testers at CR use lipstick to mark the area where the latch is in contact with the strike plate; tightening the hinge screws could fix the issue.

Spraying a dry lubricant such as graphite or WD-40 powdered powder on the lock's cylinder may 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 Double Glazing Repair (Gleader.Co.Kr) extra security. If yours will not close or latch properly it may be because of a misalignment in the latch and strikeplate within the door frame.

The most common reason is hinges that are loose and may sag with time and cause the latch to go over the strike plate. Use a lipstick test to check. Apply some lipstick to the edge of the latch, and then attach a strip of masking tape to the strike plate. Close the upvc door repairs and you will see where the latch touches the plate. This will help you determine if the contact is too high or low for Replacement proper operation.

You'll require the replacement of a strike plate when the latch is more than 1/8" too low or high. Fortunately, this is an easy task that can be done without the need to remove the door. You'll need to use a file to enlarge the strike hole of the plate. The best file to use is a half-round one since it's a good match to the curve in the strike plate hole.

After the strike plate has been moved, you'll need to tighten the screws which attach it to the frame of your door. This should allow the door to latch and close properly. If this doesn't work, tighten the hinge screws on either side of the door and see if that helps.

If the latch is not in alignment even after lubrication, then you will need to take more extreme measures. You can remove the strike plate and then use a chisel sharp on the mortise of the strike plate, allowing you to move the latch up or down. You can also use a metal filing to shape your strike plate to fit better into the mortise. You might want to consider this option if you're concerned about the strike plate falling off during travel in your RV.

Check the Keyway

If a lock isn't functioning properly, it can leave your home vulnerable to intruders. Some door lock issues can be solved without the assistance of a professional. This includes a lock that won't fit or a lock that doesn't work when you turn it. The earlier you spot a problem and the more likely that you can solve it on your own.

If your key isn't going into or turning easily it may have rough areas that need to be smoothed out. A locksmith can do this for you, but it's also a simple do-it-yourself project that you can attempt at home. Insert the key and move it around searching for a place that's causing friction. If you notice any of these, file the rough spots using a fine metal file.

Another frequent issue with door locks is a locked or jammed latch or bolt. This can be caused by debris or a damaged piece of key that is stuck within the mechanism. You can try using a pin or needle to get rid of the debris but it is recommended to call a locksmith for a more thorough examination and removal of the broken piece.

A deadbolt that won't stay extended through the strike plate may be a sign of a faulty lock. Over time the screws that secure the deadbolt in place may become loose and cause it to shift. This can make your home more vulnerable to burglars. The screws can be replaced to aid, but if the deadbolt continues to shift, it may be time to invest in some superior hardware.

If you're having difficulties with an cylinder lock that does not turn when you press the key it could be because the key cylinder is stuck. If this is the case, apply a lubricant to loosen it up. You can also use a dry graphite spray, lubricant or WD-40 to lubricate the key cylinder and get rid of any buildup. These items can be kept in a bottle that is convenient and used regularly to maintain your locks. A lock that is lubricated is more likely to last longer than locks that aren't.

Check the Hinges

If the door lock repair near me turns easily when the door is open but won't stay locked when you close it hinges that are loose are usually to blame. This issue is fixable. First tighten the screws on the hinges to make sure they're not sagging. If the problem persists you can try adding or removing the hinge's shims' to alter alignment. These plates made of metal are available in hardware stores or on the internet.

You can also sand the edges of the mortises of the hinges, which are the slots that hold the hinges to help them sit in a straight line with the frame. Another reason for trouble locking is that the latch bolt 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 rub off the area of the tape it comes into contact with leaving a mark which indicates whether the latch contacts the strike plate above or below the hole.

If the latch isn't able to engage properly with the strikeplate, it could be due to dirt or grime. A q-tip soaked in silicone spray or graphite powder can dislodge this debris, allowing the latch to work as it should.

If the issue is still not fixed after using an oil-based lubricant, the lock cylinder could be jammed and need to be replaced. This is a job best left to an expert, but not that difficult for anyone experienced in basic home double glazing window repairs. When replacing the lock cylinder, make sure you choose one that has been tested and rated the BHMA to ensure that there are no issues with the fit and finish.

Another reason that could cause problems latching is if the door lock hardware is cheap or poorly made. This kind of lock is likely to require more maintenance than a quality lock, and may not last as long. Switching to a better-quality lock will usually resolve this problem. It is important to choose a model that's classified as B or better in terms of durability to ensure it will stand up to years of usage.

Check the Strike Plate

A door latch that does not reach the strike plate may cause a range of problems. It may prevent the door from closing and latching correctly or make it difficult to unlock. Fortunately, it's not always as hard to fix as it appears. Gravity, sagging doors and even foundation movement can cause an error in the alignment of the latch with the strike plate. The good news is that simple adjustments are usually enough to fix the issue.

If tightening the hinges and lubricating the keyway does not solve the issue the strike plate could require to be moved to a new position in order to align with the latch. To do this, take off the strikeplate and mark the spot where the latch contacts 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 lower than where the strike plate hole is, this means that the latch is slamming the plate too high. A lower strike plate location can resolve the problem. If the mark is higher than the strikeplate hole, you may have to move the strikeplate upwards.

Once you've determined the direction in which the strike plate must be adjusted, take the strike plate from the frame. Place the screws in a secure place to allow you to replace them at a later time. You should also oil the keyway on the strike plate to ensure it moves easily.

Then, you must determine if the contact point of the latch is above or below the strike hole in the plate. You can do this with paint, lipstick, or chalk. After closing the door, open it and check to see whether the mark remains visible on the latch or the masking. If the mark is located below the strikeplate, this means that the latch is striking the strikeplate too low. A higher strikeplate position will solve the problem.

To adjust the strike plate, you must remove it from the mortise. Then, using a sharp knife, chisel, or hammer widen the plate so that it can be moved upwards or downwards to align with the position of the latch. Test the door after the strike plate has been moved to verify that it latches and closes easily. After you've completed the adjustments, you'll have to attach the strikeplate back to the door's frame and fill any holes or gaps with woodfill that is in line with the frame's rest.