Locks Repair It's Not As Hard As You Think
How to Tell If Your Locks Need Repair
Lubricating your door lock may aid in the process. If the lock shakes when you insert the key, it is time to call a professional for lock repair or replacement.
In certain situations an upgraded, more secure lock might be more affordable than trying to repair an old one.
Cylinder Damage
The cylinder may be damaged if it is stiff or if the key does not move smoothly. A damaged cylinder can make your door vulnerable to burglary and should be fixed as soon as is possible. If you are unable to fix it yourself, contact a locksmith.
Cylinder lock problems are often caused by corrosion and rust over time. You can stop this from happening by regularly applying a protective coating of paint to the surface of the lock. Also, make sure that the weather strip is in good shape. This can cause water to enter the cylinder and weaken it over time.
Another common problem is when the cylinder gets out of alignment with the keyhole on the door. This can occur due to a number of reasons, including loose screws or a misaligned keyway on the handle. To fix this problem, you'll need to remove the screws securing the cylinder, and then gently adjust it. Be sure not to tighten the screws too tightly because this could cause damage to the parts.
One way to ensure that your cylinder in good shape is to apply a lubricant made of graphite. It can be found in hardware stores and can be sprayed directly on the cylinder. The lubricant makes the key turn smoothly, and also helps prevent future lock problems.
You may need to replace the cylinder in case it is completely damaged. Fortunately, this is an easy task that can be completed at home. The first step is removing the faceplate. Once this is done you can then begin to take apart the lock cylinder. After taking the cylinder off its mount, be aware of any set screws that hold it in place. These are important to be aware of to be able to reassemble it later.
The last thing to do is use a screwdriver with an extremely fine tip to access the narrower areas of the lock. You'll also want to have some ziplock bags in order to keep the pieces that you have removed.
Knobs or Handles that are loose
With time and use door knobs or handles will become loose. This can be a major problem for employees as well as customers. The good part is that this issue is usually simple to fix and doesn't require a professional locksmith service.
In general, loose doorknobs are often the result of the same issues that cause locks to jiggle and pull away from the doors: age and wear loose screws, the wrong combination of components. It's also possible that the business or home has sunk a bit, which can impact the way a door handle is positioned on the lock.
It is possible to fix loose knobs or handles, but you must have the correct tools. Be sure to not to tighten the screw too much. This could damage the handle or doorknob. It's also a good thing to have a second hand to assist you in tightening and twisting the doorknob.
It is first important to identify the screw that is loose. It's usually hidden under the cover, which is decorative and protects the lockset mounting ring. To remove the decorative cover and expose the mounting rings for the lockset, you will need to push a lever or button using an awl. The nut can be tightened by turning it counterclockwise.
Certain modern doorknobs are constructed using a different fastening method. These doorknobs are attached to doors with hidden screws and a device referred as a detent. This type of fastener may be slightly more complicated, but it can be fixed easily using the same methods previously.
After the screw has been tightened, it is an ideal idea to put a washer on top of the screw. This will prevent the screw from becoming loose in the future. This is especially important for wooden doorknobs that may get a scuffed screwhole from repeated use. You can buy washers at any hardware store, and they are a quick and easy solution to stop a daily hassle. Pick a washer that is compatible with the screw on your doorknob.
Poorly Cut Key
Keys that are not cut properly are the most common cause of a key not turning inside your lock. It could be due to a poor copy made by locksmiths, or simply because the original key has become worn over time. If G28CarKeys looking to have keys copied or your locks rekeyed, it is essential to choose a reputable local locksmith.
A locksmith should always look over the key to determine the proper cut depth and make sure they are evenly spaced across the key. A reputable locksmith will look over the lock and identify the issue. They will then suggest an answer, for example, replacing pins or altering the lock cylinder.
Bring the key that won't turn to a locksmith so they can check it on their duplicator. This will ensure that the new key is cut correctly and that it fits the lock correctly.
If a key is unable to insert fully into the lock it could be caused by dirt or debris that has built in the lock. Lubricating the lock using graphite or a silicone-based lubricant can aid in clearing tumblers that are stuck or blocked.
Another issue that is common is that keys were not cut precisely when it was first created. This can happen if someone attempts to make a low-cost and quick copy of a key. It is essential to choose a locksmith who is professional and has the equipment and knowledge required to create high-quality copies.
If you've lost a key in the lock and you want to retrieve it, you can use a pair of tweezers or needle-nosedpliers to grab it. Be careful not to insert the edge of the pliers or the tweezers to far, as this can cause more damage and it is much easier for an expert to pull the broken piece out without causing further damage to the lock mechanism. Bring the broken key to the locksmith and have them create a new key with their duplicator.
Sagging Locks
If you're having trouble locking your door it could be because of a sagging lock. This could cause the latch or bolt to become stuck in the door's frame and make it difficult to close the door. This could cause drafts and create a larger gap between the frame and the door. Both are susceptible to damage in time.
Fortunately, sagging locks can be easy to fix. Usually you can fix them by tightening the screws on hinges. If that doesn't help you, try lubricating the lock. You can try using powdered graphite or a silicon-based lubricant. Make sure to choose an oil that won't harm the lock over time.
A misaligned lock is also a common issue that could affect the door's ability and close properly. This is often caused by an installation that wasn't done correctly or a shift in the temperature that causes doors and frames to shift. This problem, if left untreated can make your home or business vulnerable.
To correct this issue first, you'll need to start by looking at the door and frame to see if they're on the same level. If they aren't then you'll need to adjust the hinges in the correct height and alignment.
The next step is to check the mortise and strike plate. You can move the strike plate if it's sliding with a hammer, or chisel. After repositioning it, check it to make sure that it aligns with the latch.
If you're having trouble with your lock, it may be time to contact an expert locksmith. Whether you have a Yale lock mortice lock or uPVC lock, a locksmith can help you resolve the problem and ensure that your door is secured.
Only certain lock damages can be repaired. Do not attempt to bend the damaged bolt back to its original position in order to weaken it and could potentially damage the cylinder itself. If you're experiencing serious issues it's best to contact a professional. They'll be able to evaluate the damage and give you an idea of what your options are.