Door Lock Repair - How to Fix Common Problems

If a lock doesn't latch properly is a clear indication that it needs to be repaired. The testers at CR use lipstick to mark where the latch is in contact with the strike plate; tightening the hinge screws could fix the problem.

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

Check the Latch

The latch is bolt that extends from the door frame and locks the lock when the knob or handle is pulled back. The most popular options for security include deadbolts as well as positive-locking latches. If they don't shut or latch properly, the problem may be an unaligned latch and strike plate in the door frame.

A common cause of this is a hinge that is not properly secured. They can loosen with time and cause the latch to miss its strike plate. To determine this, conduct the test of lipstick. Apply some lipstick to the edge of the latch and then attach an edging strip to the strike plate. Close the door and you'll observe where the latch meets the plate. This will tell you whether the point of contact is too high or low to allow proper operation.

If the latch is touching the strike plate at a distance of more than 1/8 inches high or too low, you'll need to reposition the strike plate. Fortunately, this is usually an easy task that can be completed without removing the door. You'll need to use an instrument to increase the size of the strike plate hole. The most suitable file is a half-round one since it's a good match to the curve of the strike hole in the plate.

After shifting the strike plate you'll need to tighten screws that attach it to the door's frame. This should be enough to allow your door to close and latch properly. If not, try tightening the hinge screws on the other side of the door to see if it helps.

If the latch is out of alignment even after lubrication you will require more drastic measures. You could try removing the strike plate windows and doors near me using a chisel with a sharp edge to enlarge the mortise of the strike plate which allows you to move the strike upwards or downwards. Alternately, you can make use of a metal file reshape the strike plate so it fits into the mortise better. This is a possibility you may be considering when your vehicle is prone to bumps and dips on the highway and you're concerned that it may come off during travel.

Make sure you check the Keyway

If a lock isn't functioning properly, it can leave your home vulnerable to intruders. Certain issues with door locks can be fixed without the assistance of an expert. This includes a lock or key that isn't turning. The sooner you realize a problem, the more likely it is that you can solve it on your own.

If your key isn't moving into the lock or turning smoothly It could be having rough areas that need to be filed off. A locksmith can do this for you however it's an easy DIY project you can attempt at home. Move the key around to locate the spot that causes friction. If you spot any of these spots, use a fine metal file to smooth out the rough areas.

A jammed or locked bolt or latch is another common issue. This can be caused either by debris or a broken key that has stuck itself into the mechanism. You may try using a pin or needle to clear the debris, but it's best to contact an experienced locksmith for a thorough inspection and removal of the damaged piece.

A deadbolt which won't extend through the strike plate could be a sign of a malfunctioning locking mechanism. The screws that connect the deadbolt will loosen over time and cause it to move and make your home susceptible to burglaries. The screws can be replaced to aid, but if the deadbolt is still moving, it may be time to invest in some superior hardware.

If you're having issues with a cylinder which won't turn when you turn the key, the key cylinder might be stuck. If this is the case, you can use a lubricant to loosen it. You can also make use of dry lubricant or WD-40 spray to lubricate and remove any buildup. Keep the bottles of these products handy and use them periodically to keep your locks in good condition. A lubricated lock is more likely to last longer than one that's not.

Check the Hinges

If your door Door Lock Repair lock cylinder is turning easily when the door is open but it doesn't lock when you close it hinges that are loose are usually to blame. This issue is fixable. First, tighten the hinge screws to ensure that they aren't sagging. If the problem persists Try removing or adding the hinge's shim' to change the alignment. These small metal plates can be found in hardware stores as well as online.

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, put a small amount of lipstick on the latch. Then place a stripe of masking tape over the strike plate. When you shut the door, the lipstick will stain the part of the tape it comes into contact with, leaving a mark that will indicate whether the latch is in contact with the strike plate above or below the hole.

If the latch doesn't work properly with the strikeplate, it could be due to dirt and grime. A q-tip soaked in graphite or silicon spray will help to remove this debris, allowing the latch to function as it should.

If the issue persists after using the lubricant, it may be that the lock cylinder is seized and needs to be replaced. This is a task for an expert, but not difficult for anyone experienced in basic home repair. When replacing the lock cylinder, look for one that's been tested and rated by the BHMA to avoid issues with the fit and finish.

The hardware for the door lock could be flimsy or poorly designed. This kind of lock could require more maintenance and last less than a top-quality lock. If this is the case, upgrading to a more durable lock will usually solve the issue. The key is to choose a model that's rated B or higher in terms of durability to ensure it will last for years of use.

Check the Strike Plate

A door latch that doesn't reach the strike plate may cause a range of problems. It could prevent the door and window repair from closing properly and latching, or make it more difficult to unlock. Fortunately, it's not as hard to fix as it may seem. Sagging hinges, gravity and even home foundation movement can cause the latch to be out of alignment with the strike plate, but often a few simple adjustments will correct the problem.

If tightening and lubricating the hinges doesn't fix the problem, it may be required to move the strike plate to a different position so that it aligns with the latch. To do this, you must remove the strikeplate and mark the location where the latch will be. Mark the spot with lipstick, caulk, or a strip of masking tape. If the mark is below where the strike plate hole is, this means that the latch is hitting the plate too high. A lower strike plate location will solve the issue. If the mark is higher than the strike plate's hole, you can move the strike plate up a little.

Once you know which direction the strike plate must be adjusted, remove it from the frame. keep the screws in a secure place so you can replace them later. You should also lubricate the strike plate's keyway to ensure that it can move effortlessly.

Then, you must determine if the contact point of the latch is located above or below the strike hole in the plate. This can be done using paint, lipstick or chalk. After closing the door, you can open it to observe where the mark has been left on the latch or masking tape. If the mark is located below the strikeplate, windows and doors Near Me (r.Ess.Aleoklop.Atarget=%5C%22_Blank%5C%22%20hrefmailto) it indicates that the latch is striking the strikeplate too low. A higher position for the strikeplate can solve the issue.

To adjust the latch 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 shift upward or downward to match the position of the latch. Once the strike plate is moved, you can test the door to ensure it closes and latches without issue. After you have completed the adjustments, you are able to reattach the strike plate to the frame of the door and fill in any existing screw holes or gaps using wood filler that is the same color as the rest of the frame of the door.