17 Reasons Not To Ignore Locks Repair
How to Tell If Your Locks Need Repair
Lubricating your door lock with oil may aid. If the lock wiggles when you insert the key, it's time to call an expert for repair or replacement.
In certain circumstances it might be more cost effective to replace a damaged lock with a more secure one.
Damaged Cylinder
The cylinder might be damaged if it is stiff or if the key does not move smoothly. A damaged cylinder can make your door open to burglars. It is best to fix it as quickly as possible. If you are unable to fix it yourself, you should call a locksmith.
Cylinder lock issues are usually caused by corrosion and rust over time. You can avoid this by regularly applying a protective coat of paint on the surface of the lock. Make sure the weather strip is also in good condition. If it is not, this could cause water to leak in and weaken the cylinder over time.
Another common problem is when the cylinder is misaligned with the keyhole on the door. This could be due to various reasons, such as loose screws or an incorrectly aligned keyway on the handle. To fix it, you'll need to remove the screws that secure the cylinder. Then, gently adjust it. Be sure not to tighten the screws too much, as this can damage the parts.
Use a graphite-based lubricant to keep your cylinder working correctly. This is usually available at hardware stores and can be applied directly to the cylinder. The lubricant will help the key turn smoothly and will also assist in preventing future lock issues.
If the cylinder is completely damaged, you may have to replace it. It's a relatively easy job that can be completed at home. The first step is to remove the faceplate. After lock repair have removed the faceplate, you can start disassembling the lock cylinder. After taking the cylinder off its mount, be aware of any set screws that hold it in the position. It is crucial to record these screws for later reassembly.
Last but not least, use a screwdriver with an extremely fine tip to access the narrower areas of the lock. It is also advisable to keep a few ziplock bags to store the components you take out to be able to refer back later.
Handles or Knobs with loose knobs
With time and use door knobs or handles are likely to get loose. This can cause a huge inconvenience for both employees and customers. This problem is usually easy to fix and does not require the assistance of a locksmith.
Most commonly, loose doorknobs are caused by the same issues that cause locks to jiggle or pull away from the door: wear and tear, loose screws and the wrong combination of components. It's also possible that your home or business has been settling slightly. This could affect the way that the door handle is secured to the lock.
It is possible to fix loose knobs or handles however, you need the correct tools. Be careful not to tighten the screw too much. This could cause damage to the doorknob or handle. It is also a good idea to have a second hand to hold on to, as it can provide leverage or help with the tightening and twisting process.
It is first important to find the screw that is loose. It's usually hidden under the cover, which is decorative and protects the lockset mounting ring. To take off the decorative cover and reveal the lockset mounting rings you must press a button or lever using an awl. The bolt can be tightened by turning it anticlockwise.
Certain modern doorknobs are constructed with a different method of fixing. These use a device called detent, and are fastened to the door using concealed screws. This type of fastener may be somewhat more complicated but can be fixed easily using the same methods previously.
It is a good idea to place a washer on the screw after it has been tightened. this will keep the screw from becoming loose to the point of becoming loose in the future. This is especially important for wooden door knobs which may develop a stripped screw hole from repeated use. Washers are available at any hardware shop and are a quick and quick solution to any problem you encounter. Just be sure to choose a washer that is appropriate for the screw used in your doorknob.
Poorly Cut Key
The most common reason why a key isn't able to turn into your lock is that it was poorly cut. This could be because of a poor copy made by locksmiths or the original key getting worn down over time. If you require keys copied or your locks changed, it is essential to choose a reputable local locksmith.
A locksmith should always inspect a key for the correct cut depth, and also ensure that the cuts are evenly distributed across the key. A good locksmith will also examine the lock to determine the cause of the issue and provide an answer for you, whether it is replacing the pins or adjusting the cylinder of the lock.
Bring the key that isn't able to turn to a locksmith so that they can test it on their duplicator. This will ensure that the key is cut correctly and that it will fit your locks correctly.
If the key won't fully insert into the lock, it could be due to dirt or debris that have built up in the lock. Lubricating the lock with graphite or silicone-based lubricant will help unblock tumblers which are stuck or blocked.
A key that was not cut exactly when it was made is another common issue. This can happen if someone attempts to make a cheap and quick replica of a key. Only a locksmith equipped with the right tools and experience can make high-quality duplicates.
If a key is broken off inside the lock, you can try to grasp it with needle-nosed pliers or even a pair of tweezers. Be careful not to insert the edge of the pliers or tweezers too far, because this could make the problem worse and it's much easier for professionals to remove the broken piece without causing further damage to the lock mechanism. Bring the damaged key to the locksmith and have them create a new one using their duplicator.
Sagging Locks
A sliding lock could be the cause of your inability to lock your door. This can cause the bolt or latch to become stuck within the door frame and could make closing the door more difficult. It could also cause drafts, and create a bigger gap between the door and the frame and can cause damage to both in the course of time.
Fortunately, sagging locks can be easy to fix. They are usually fixed by tightening the screws on the hinges. If that doesn't work then you can try to lubricate the lock. You can try using graphite powder, or a silicone based lubricant. Choose a lubricant which won't damage the lock over time.
A misaligned lock is also a frequent issue that can impact a door's ability to open and close properly. This could be due to a door not being installed correctly, or an extreme temperature change that causes the doors and frames to move. If ignored, could make your home or business more vulnerable.
To fix this it is necessary to begin by examining the door and frame to determine whether they're on the same level. If they're not, you'll need adjust the hinges on the door to ensure that they're aligned at the right height.
The next step is to examine the mortise and strike plate. You can reposition the strike plate if it is sliding with a hammer, or chisel. Once you have repositioned it and tested it, ensure it is aligned with the latch.
Contact a locksmith if are having problems with your lock. 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 secure.
Remember, only certain types of lock damage can be repaired. It is not recommended to bend the damaged bolt back to its original position, as this will weaken the bolt and possibly cause damage to the cylinder. It is best to consult an expert when you're experiencing serious issues. They'll assess the damage, and tell you what your options are.