10 Erroneous Answers To Common Lock Repair Questions: Do You Know The Right Answers?

Door Lock Repair - How to Fix Common Problems

If a lock doesn't latch properly is a clear indication that it's in need of being repaired. CR's testers mark the area where the latch is in contact with the strike plate using lipstick. In tightening the hinge screws may fix the problem.

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

Check the Latch

The latch is a bolt that extends from the door frame and secures the lock when the knob or handle is pulled back. Deadbolts and latches with positive locking are popular choices for extra security. If the latch doesn't close or latch correctly, the problem may be an unaligned latch and strike plate within the door frame.

One common cause is hinges that are loose and tend to sag over time, causing the latch to go over the strike plate. Make use of a lipstick test to test. Apply some lipstick on the edge of the latch and then attach the strip of masking tape to the strike plate. Close the door and you'll see where the latch touches the plate. This will tell you if the contact point is too high or low for proper operation.

If the latch is contacting the strike plate at a distance of more than 1/8 inches high or too low, you'll have to reposition the strike plate. This is a simple job that is typically accomplished without removing the doors. You'll need to use a file to enlarge the strike plate hole. The best type of file is a half-round, because it is in line with the curve in the strike hole in the plate.

Once the strike plate is relocated, you'll need tighten the screws which attach it to the door frame. This should be enough to allow your door to latch and close properly. If not, try tightening the hinge screws on the opposite side of the door double glazing installer near me to see if this will help.

If the latch is not in alignment even after lubrication, you will need to take more extreme measures. You can try taking off the strike plate and using a chisel with a sharp edge to expand the mortise on the strike plate which allows you to move the strike up or down. You can also use a metal filing to shape your strike plate to fit better into the mortise. This is an option you may think about when your vehicle is prone to bumps and dips along the highway and you're concerned that it may come off in the course of travel.

Make sure you check the Keyway

If your lock isn't operating correctly, it can make your property vulnerable to intruders. Certain issues with door locks can be resolved without the help of a professional. This includes a lock that won't turn. The sooner you realize a problem, the more likely that you can solve it on your own.

If your key isn't moving into or turning easily, it could have rough spots that require to be filed off. You can either have a locksmith help you or you can do it yourself. Move the key around until you can find a place that is causing friction. If you notice any of these, file the rough spots using a fine metal file.

Another common door lock problem is a jammed or locked latch or bolt. This could be caused by debris or a broken piece of key that has gotten stuck within the mechanism. You can use a needle or pin to remove the debris. However it is recommended to contact a locksmith in order to conduct a thorough examination and to remove the broken piece.

A deadbolt which won't extend across the strike plate may be a sign of a defective locking mechanism. Over time the screws that secure your deadbolt together may loosen and cause it shift. This makes your home more vulnerable to burglars. Changing the screws can assist, but if your deadbolt is still shifting, it may be time to invest in higher quality hardware.

If you have trouble with a cylinder that won't turn when you turn the key, the cylinder could be stuck. If this is the problem, you can use a fluid to lubricate it. You could also use a dry lubricant, graphite spray, or WD-40 to lubricate the key cylinder and remove any buildup. Keep the bottles of these products handy and use them regularly to ensure your locks are in good working order. A lock that is lubricated is more likely to last longer than locks that aren't.

Check the Hinges

If the door lock cylinder is turning easily when the door is open but it doesn't lock when you close it hinges that are loose are typically to the blame. This problem is easily fixable. To resolve the issue fix it, tighten all the screws on the hinges. If the issue persists, you might try removing or adding hinge'shims' to adjust alignment. These small metal plates are available in hardware stores or on the internet.

Sand the edges of the hinge mortises (the slots that hold the hinges) to make them flush with the frame. Another reason for trouble locking is that the bolt for the latch could be too high or too low in the strike plate. To determine this, place a small amount of lipstick on the latch. Then, place a strip of masking tape on the strike plate. When you shut the door to the front, the lipstick will stain any part of the tape touches. This will show whether the latch is located above or below the hole.

If the latch isn't working properly with the strike plate it could be due an accumulation of grime and dirt. A q-tip soaked in silicone spray or graphite powder will help to remove this obstruction, allowing the lock to work exactly as it should.

If the issue is still not solved after applying an oil-based lubricant, the lock cylinder might be seized and need to be replaced. It's a job best left to an expert but it's not difficult for anyone who has experience with basic home repairs. If you're replacing the lock's cylinders, make sure that they've been tested and rated BHMA approved to avoid any issues with the fit or finish.

Another reason that could cause problems latching is if the door lock hardware is not well-made or of a low quality. This kind of lock could require more maintenance and last longer than a top-quality lock. If this is the case, upgrading to a better lock will typically solve the issue. The key is to choose a model that's rated B or double glazed window repairs glazing installer window doctor near me me; visit the next internet site, higher in durability to be sure it will last for years of use.

Check the Strike Plate

A door latch that doesn't reach the strike plate could cause a variety of issues. It may stop the door from closing and latching properly, or make it more difficult to unlock. Fortunately, it's not as hard to fix as it seems. Gravity, sagging hinges and even home foundation movement can cause the latch to misalign with the strike plate, but often a few simple adjustments will correct the problem.

If tightening and lubricating the hinges does not solve the issue it might be required to move the strike plate to a different position so that it aligns with the latch. To do this, first take off the strike plate and mark where the latch comes into contact with it. Mark the spot using caulk, lipstick, or a strip of masking tape. If the mark is below the strike plate hole, it is a sign that the latch is striking the plate too high, and a lower strike plate position will solve the issue. If the mark is higher than the strike plate hole you can move the strike plate upwards a bit.

Once you know which direction the strike plate needs to be adjusted, remove it from the frame and keep the screws in a safe location to replace them in the future. You will also need to grease the keyway on the strike plate to ensure it moves effortlessly.

Then, determine if the contact point of the latch is located above or below the strike plate hole. 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 masking or latch. If the mark is lower than the strike plate, upvc window repair near me repairs near me (koreafish.co.kr) this indicates that the latch is hitting the strike plate too low. the higher position of the strike plate will fix the issue.

To adjust the strike plate, take it from the mortise. Then, using a sharp knife, chisel, or hammer, widen the plate to ensure that it can be moved either upwards or downwards to align with the position of the latch. Test the door after the strike plate is moved to make sure that it latches and closes effortlessly. After you've completed the adjustments, reattach the strike plate to the door frame and fill in any existing screw holes or gaps with wood filler that is the same color as the the frame of the door.