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 use lipstick to mark the area where the latch meets the strike plate; tightening the hinge screws may solve the problem.

Spraying a dry lubricant, like powdered graphite or WD-40 on the lock's cylinder can also help.

Check the Latch

The latch is bolt that extends out of the door frame and secures the lock when the handle or knob is pulled back. The most popular options for security are deadbolts and positively locking latches. If yours will not close or latch properly, Door Lock Repair it could be because of a misalignment in the latch and strikeplate within the door Upvc Repairs frame.

A common cause is loose hinges that can sag over time, causing the latch to go over the strike plate. To determine this, window lock repair conduct a lipstick test. Apply some lipstick on the edges of the latch and then attach an edging strip to the strike plate. Close the door and observe where the latch meets the plate. This will help you determine if the contact is too high or too low to function properly.

You'll require the replacement of a strike plate in the event that the latch is more than 1/8" too high or low. This is a simple task that can usually be done without the need to remove the doors. You will need to use a filing tool to expand your strike plate hole. A half-round file is ideal since it follows the shape of the strike hole on the plate.

After shifting the strike plate you will need to tighten screws that hold it to the frame of the door. This should allow the door to latch and close correctly. If not, you can try tightening the hinge screws on the other side of the door to see if this can help.

If the latch is out of alignment even after lubrication, then you will require 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. Alternately, you can employ a metal file to alter the shape of the strike plate so it will fit better into the mortise. You may want to think about this option if worried about the strike plate breaking off when you travel in your RV.

Check the Keyway

If your lock isn't operating properly, it could leave your property vulnerable to intruders. The good news is, some kinds of door lock issues can be resolved without the need of a professional. This is the case with a lock or a key that doesn't turn. The sooner you realize an issue and the more likely to fix it yourself.

If your key isn't able to go into or turn smoothly it could have rough spots that you have to smooth off. Locksmiths can help you with this however it's an easy DIY project you can attempt at home. Move the key around until you can locate the spot that is causing friction. If you see any of these, use a fine metal filing to smooth the rough spots.

A locked bolt or bolt that is jammed or latch is a different issue. It could be due to debris or a broken piece of key that has become lodged within the mechanism. You could try using a pin or needle to clear the debris, but it's best to contact an expert locksmith for a more thorough inspection and removal of the broken piece.

A deadbolt that isn't extended over the strike plate may be a sign of a faulty lock. Over time, the screws that hold your deadbolt together may loosen and cause it shift. This can make your home more vulnerable to burglars. If the deadbolt is still shifting it is possible to upgrade the hardware.

Finally, if you're having trouble with an cylinder lock that does not rotate with the key it could be because the key cylinder is stuck. If this is the case, you can apply a lubricant to loosen it up. You can also use dry graphite spray, lubricant or WD-40 to lubricate the key cylinder and get rid of any buildup. Keep an ounce of these items in your pocket and apply them frequently to ensure that your locks are in good working order. A lock that is lubricated will be more likely to last longer than one that's not.

Check the Hinges

If your door lock turns easily when the door is open but doesn't stay locked when you close it hinges that are loose are typically to be blamed. This problem is easily fixable. To fix the issue make sure you tighten all screws on the hinges. If the issue persists, you may try removing or adding hinge'shims' in order to adjust the alignment. These plates made of metal are available in hardware stores or on the internet.

Sand the edges of the hinge mortises (the slots that hold the hinges) to ensure they are flush with the frame. The latch bolt could be too high or low in the strikeplate. To find out this, put some lipstick on the latch and put an area of masking tape on the strike plate. When you close the door the lipstick will rub off the area of the tape it touches, leaving a mark that 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 will help to remove this debris, allowing the lock to function just as it is supposed to.

If the issue is not fixed after using an oil-based lubricant, the lock cylinder might be seized and need to be replaced. This is a task best left to an expert however, it's not too difficult for anyone who has experience with basic home repairs. If you are replacing the lock cylinders, make sure that they've been tested and rated BHMA approved to avoid issues with the fitting or finishing.

The hardware for the double glazed door repairs lock could be unprofessional or poorly made. This kind of lock usually requires more maintenance than a quality lock, and may not last as long. If this is the situation, upgrading to a better lock will typically solve the issue. The key is to choose one that is rated B or higher in terms of durability to ensure it will stand up to 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 prevent the door from closing and latching correctly or make it difficult to unlock. Fortunately, it's not always as difficult to fix it as it seems. The force of gravity, sagging hinges, and even home foundation movement can cause the latch to be out of alignment with the strike plate, but usually a few adjustments will correct the problem.

If tightening and lubricating the hinges doesn't fix the problem, it may be necessary to move the strike plate to another location to align with the latch. To do this, first take off the strike plate and mark where the latch comes into contact with it. You can use caulk, lipstick or a strip of masking tape that will stain as you close the door to mark this spot. If the mark is below the strike plate's hole, it means that the latch is hitting the plate too high, and a lower strike plate position can resolve the issue. If the mark is higher than the strikeplate hole you may need to move the strikeplate higher.

After you have identified the direction in which the strike plate must be adjusted, you can remove the strikeplate from the frame. Make sure the screws are in a secure location to allow you to replace them at a later date. It is also necessary to oil the keyway on the strike plate to ensure it moves effortlessly.

You can do this by applying chalk, paint or lipstick to the latch. You can do this by applying paint, lipstick or chalk to the latch. After closing the door, you can open it to observe where the mark has been left on the masking tape or latch. If the mark is located below the strike plate, it indicates that the latch is hitting the strike plate too low and an upper strike plate position can fix the issue.

To adjust the strike plate, you must remove it from the mortise. Then with a sharp knife, chisel, or hammer widen the plate so that it can be moved upwards or downwards to match the position of the latch. After the strike plate has been moved, you can test the door to ensure it closes and latches without issue. Once you've made the adjustments, you'll have to reconnect the strikeplate to the frame of the door and fill any holes or gaps with woodfiller that matches the frame's rest.