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Door Lock Repair - How to Fix Common Problems

A lock that fails to latch properly is a sign it should be repaired. The testers from CR mark the spot where the latch touches the strike plate using lipstick. Tightening the hinge screws could solve the problem.

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

Check the Latch

The latch is bolt that extends from the door frame and locks the lock when the handle or knob is pulled back. Popular options for increased security include deadbolts as well as positive-locking latches. If the latch does not close or Windows latch correctly, it could be because of a misalignment in the latch and strikeplate within the door frame.

The most common reason is hinges that have become loose, and they can sag over time which causes the latch to go over the strike plate. To determine this, conduct an experiment with lipstick. Apply some lipstick on the edges of the latch, and then place a stripe of masking tape to the strike plate. Close the door and you'll see where the latch contacts the plate. This will tell you whether the point of contact is too high or low for proper operation.

If the latch is touching the strike plate more than 1/8 inch too high or too low, you'll have to reposition the strike plate. This is a simple task that can usually be done without removing the doors. You'll need a filing tool to expand your strike plate hole. A half-round file is ideal since it follows the contour of the strike hole on the plate.

After the strike plate has been relocated, you'll need tighten the screws that attach it to the door frame. This should be sufficient to allow the door to latch and close properly. If not, you can try tightening the hinge screws on the other side of the door Door Lock Repair to see if it can help.

If the latch is not in alignment after the lubrication process, you'll need take more drastic measures. Try removing the strike plate and using a sharp chisel to enlarge the mortise of the strike plate which allows you to move the strike upwards or downwards. You can also make use of a metal file shape the strike plate so that it fits into the mortise better. You might want to consider this option if you're worried about the strike plate coming off while traveling in your RV.

Make sure you check the Keyway

If your lock isn't working properly, you may be leaving your home open to burglars. Some door lock issues can be solved without the help of an expert. This includes a key that isn't fitting or a lock that sticks when turned. The earlier you spot an issue, the more likely to be able to fix it yourself.

If your key isn't going into the lock or turning smoothly It could be having rough spots that require to be filed off. Locksmiths can help you with this however, it's also a simple do-it-yourself project that you can do at home. Move the key around until you can locate the spot that is causing friction. If you find any of these spots, use a metal filing to smooth out the rough spots.

Another frequent issue with door locks is a jammed or locked latch or bolt. This can be caused by debris or a broken piece of key that is stuck within the mechanism. You can employ a needle or pin to get rid of the debris. However, it is best to call a locksmith to perform a thorough inspection and remove the broken piece.

A deadbolt that doesn't stay extended beyond the strike plate can also be a sign of a faulty lock. The screws that secure the deadbolt may loosen over time, which can cause it to move and make your home vulnerable to break-ins. If the deadbolt is still shifting it may be necessary to upgrade the hardware.

If you are having trouble with a cylinder which won't move when you turn the key, the cylinder might be stuck. If this is the case, make use of a lubricant in order to loosen it. You can also apply dry lubricant, or WD-40 spray to lubricate and eliminate any buildup. Keep a bottle of these products in your bag and use them regularly to ensure your locks are in good working order. A locking system that is lubricated will last longer than a non-lubricated lock.

Check the Hinges

Loose hinges can be the cause of the cylinder of a door lock that is easily rotated when the door is opened but does not lock when closed. This is solved with a simple procedure. First tighten the hinge screws to ensure they're not sliding. If the issue continues, you may try removing or adding hinge'shims' to adjust alignment. These plates of small size can be found in hardware stores as well as online.

Sand the edges of hinge mortises (the slots that hold the hinges) to ensure they are flush with the frame. Another reason for trouble locking is that the bolt for the latch may be too high or low in the strike plate. To determine this, place a small amount of lipstick on the latch. Then, you can place a piece of masking tape over the strike plate. When you close the door the lipstick will rub off the part of the tape that it touches, 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 engage properly with the strikeplate it could be due to dirt or grime. This buildup can be eliminated with a q-tip soaked with graphite or silicone spray.

If the issue is still not fixed after using a lubricant, the lock cylinder may be seized and need to be replaced. This is a task best left to an expert however, it's not too difficult for someone who knows basic home repairs. When replacing the lock cylinder, look for double Glazed door repairs one that has been tested and rated the BHMA to avoid issues with the fit and finish.

The hardware for the door lock could be unprofessional or poorly made. This type of lock may require more maintenance window and door repairs will last longer than a lock of a higher quality. Switching to a better-quality lock will usually resolve this problem. To ensure that your lock lasts for a long time, choose a model with a durability rating of B or greater.

Make sure you check the Strike Plate

A door latch that does not reach the strike plate could cause a range of problems that range from stopping the door from closing and latching properly to making it more difficult to open. It's not as difficult to fix it as it appears. The force of gravity, sagging hinges, and even movement of the home foundation can cause the latch to misalign with the strike plate, but usually a few adjustments will fix the issue.

If you have tried lubricating and tightening the hinges, but it does not solve the issue it might be required to move the strike plate to a different position to align with the latch. To do this, first take off the strike plate and mark the spot where the latch is in 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 location. If the mark is below the hole where the strike plate is, it means that the latch is hitting the plate too high. A lower strike plate location will solve the issue. If the mark is above the strike plate's hole, you can move the strike plate up bit.

Once you know which direction the strike plate must be adjusted, take it from the frame. keep the screws in a safe location so that you can replace them in the future. You will also have to grease the keyway of the strike plate to ensure that it is able to move easily.

Then, determine if the contact point of the latch is located above or below the strike plate hole. You can do this by applying lipstick, paint or chalk to the latch. 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 strike plate, Door Lock Repair it indicates that the latch is hitting the strike plate too low, and the higher position of the strike plate can fix the issue.

To adjust the strike plate make the adjustment, remove the strike plate from the mortise, and then expand it with a sharp knife or chisel with a Hammer to allow the strike plate to move upwards or downwards to match the position of the latch. Test the door door repair after the strike plate is moved to make sure that it closes and latches easily. Once you've finished the adjustments, you'll need to reattach the strikeplate to the door's frame and fill any old screwholes or gaps with woodfill that matches the rest of the frame.