5 Common Myths About Lock Repair You Should Avoid

Door Lock Repair - How to Fix Common Problems

A lock that isn't latching properly is a clear indication that it's time to get it 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 window lock repair's cylinder may also help.

Check the Latch

The latch is an extension bolt that extends out of the door frame and secures the lock when the knob or handle is retracted. Deadbolts and positive locking latches are popular options for additional security. If the latch does not close or latch properly, it could be because of a misalignment in the strikeplate and latch in the door frame.

One common cause is hinges that have become loose, and they tend to sag over time, causing the latch to miss the strike plate. To determine this, conduct the test of lipstick. Apply some lipstick on the edges of latch and attach the strip of masking tape to the strike plate. Close the door, and you'll notice where the latch touches the plate. This will help you determine whether the contact is high or low for proper operation.

If the latch is touching the strike plate more than 1/8 inch high or too low, you'll have to reposition the strike plate. This is a simple task that is typically accomplished without the need to remove the doors. It's just a matter of using an extension file to widen the strike hole of the plate. The most suitable file is a half-round one, since it's a good match to the curve in the strike plate hole.

After repositioning the strike plate, you'll need to tighten the screws that attach it to the door's frame. This should be enough to get your door and window repair to shut and latch correctly. If not, you can try tightening the hinge screws on the opposite side of the door Window Doctor Near me to see if this will help.

If the latch is not in alignment even after lubrication, then you will need to take more drastic measures. You can take off 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 upwards or downwards. You can also use a metal file to reshape the strike plate so it will fit better into the mortise. This is a possibility you may want to consider when your vehicle is prone to bumps and dips along the highway, and you're worried that it might fall off in the course of travel.

Check the Keyway

If your lock isn't working properly, you could be leaving yourself and your home open to burglars. Certain door lock issues can be resolved without the help of an expert. This includes a lock that isn't fitting or door lock repair a lock that sticks when it is turned. The sooner you realize a problem the more likely it is that you can fix it on your own.

If your key doesn't go into or turn smoothly it could have rough spots that you'll need to smooth off. Locksmiths can do this for you however, it's also an easy DIY project you can try at home. Move the key around until you locate the area that causes friction. If you see any of these spots, use a fine metal filing to smooth the rough areas.

A locked or jammed bolt or latch is another frequent issue. It can be caused by debris or by a damaged key that has been inserted into the mechanism. You can make use of a needle or pin to remove the debris. However it is advised to contact a locksmith to perform a thorough inspection and remove the broken piece.

A deadbolt that doesn't stay extended through the strike plate could be a sign of a faulty lock. The screws that secure the deadbolt may loosen over time, which can cause it to move, making your home more vulnerable to break-ins. Changing the screws can aid, but if the deadbolt is still moving it might be the time to invest in higher quality hardware.

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

Check the Hinges

If the door in my area lock turns easily when the door is opened but doesn't stay locked when you close it, loose hinges are often to blame. This issue can be a simple fix. First, tighten the screws on the hinges to ensure that they aren't sagging. If the issue persists, you can try adding or removing hinge'shims' to adjust alignment. These small metal plates are available in hardware stores and online.

Sand the edges of hinge mortises (the slots that hold the hinges) to make them flush with the frame. The latch bolt might be too high or low in the strikeplate. To find out, rub a little lipstick on the latch, then put an area of masking tape over the strike plate. When you shut the door the lipstick will smear the part 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.

Finally, if the latch isn't engaging properly with the strike plate, it may be due to a buildup of dirt and grime. A q-tip coated with silicone spray or graphite powder will help to remove this debris, allowing the latch to work just as it should.

If the issue is not solved after applying a lubricant, the lock cylinder might be stuck and require to be replaced. This is a job that should be left to an expert but is not difficult for anyone who is proficient in basic home double glazing repairs. When replacing the lock cylinder, look for one that has been tested and rated by the BHMA to avoid issues with the fit and finish.

The hardware used to lock the door could be unprofessional or poorly made. This kind of lock usually requires more maintenance than a good lock, and may not last as long. A higher-quality lock will usually resolve this issue. The key is to choose one that is classified as B or better in terms of durability to ensure it can withstand years of use.

Verify the Strike Plate

A door latch that doesn't reach the strike plate can cause a myriad of issues that range from stopping the door from closing and latching properly to making it more difficult to open. Fortunately, it's not as hard to fix as it may seem. Gravity, sagging hinges and even movement of the home foundation can cause the latch to be out of alignment with the strike plate but usually a few adjustments will fix the issue.

If tightening the hinges and lubricating the keyway doesn't solve the problem the strike plate could need to be moved to a new position to align with the latch. To do this, you must remove the strikeplate and mark the location where the latch is located. Mark the spot with lipstick, caulk, or a stripe of masking tape. If the mark is below the hole where the strike plate is, this indicates that the latch is not hitting the plate sufficiently high. A lower strike plate location could solve the issue. If the mark is higher than the strikeplate hole, it may be necessary to move the strikeplate higher.

Once you've determined the direction in which the strike plate needs to be adjusted, remove the strikeplate from the frame. Keep the screws in a safe place to allow you to replace them at a later time. You will also need to lubricate the keyway on the strike plate to ensure that it can move easily.

Then, you must determine if the contact point of the latch is above or below the strike plate hole. This can be done using paint, lipstick or chalk. After closing the door, open it to see where the mark was left on the masking tape or latch. If the mark is below the strikeplate, it means that the latch is hitting the strikeplate too low. A higher strikeplate position can fix the issue.

To make the adjustment to adjust the strike plate, take it out from the mortise, and then expand it with a sharp knife or chisel with a an hammer to allow for the strike plate to move either way to match the latch's position. Once the strike plate has moved, you can test the door to ensure that it shuts and latches smoothly. Once you've made the adjustments, you'll have to reconnect the strikeplate to the frame of the door and fill in any screw holes or gaps with woodfill that is in line with the frame's rest.