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Door Lock Repair - How to Fix Common Problems

A lock that doesn't latch properly is a clear indication that it's in need of being repaired. The testers from CR mark the spot where the latch is in contact with the strike plate using lipstick. Tightening the hinge screws can fix the problem.

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

Check the Latch

The latch is the bolt that extends into the door frame to secure the lock when it is pulled back by the handle or knob. Popular choices for increased security are deadbolts and positively locking latches. If yours isn't closing or latch correctly, it could be due to a misalignment of the strikeplate and latch in the door frame.

The most common reason is loose hinges that tend to sag over time and cause the latch to miss the strike plate. Test the hinges using a lipstick to test. Apply some lipstick on the edge of the latch and then attach the strip of masking tape to the strike plate. Close the door and you'll see where the latch touches the plate. This will let you determine whether the contact is high or too low for 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 have to move the strike plate. Fortunately, this is usually an easy job that can be done without removing the door. You'll need a filing to enlarge the strike hole in the plate. A half-round file is ideal because it is in line with the curve of the strike plate hole.

After shifting the strike plate you will need to tighten screws that secure it to the door's frame. This is enough to get your door to latch and close correctly. If this doesn't work tighten the hinge screws on either side of the door to see if that helps.

If the latch is out of alignment even after lubrication, you will require more extreme measures. Try removing the strike plate and using a sharp chisel to increase the size of the mortise on the strike plate, allowing you to move the strike upwards or downwards. Alternatively, you can use a metal file to reshape the strike plate so it will fit better into the mortise. You may want to think about this option if concerned about the strike plate coming off while traveling in your RV.

Make sure you check the Keyway

If your lock is not functioning properly, you could be leaving yourself and your home open to burglars. The good news is that certain types of door lock problems can be fixed without the need for professional assistance. This includes a lock that doesn't turn. If you can identify a problem, you are more likely to be able to solve it yourself.

If your key isn't sliding into the lock or turning smoothly, it could have rough spots that need to be smoothed out. 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 find a place that is causing friction. If you see any of these spots, use a fine metal filing to smooth the rough spots.

Another common door lock problem is a locked or jammed latch or bolt. It can be caused due to debris or a damaged key that has lodged itself in the mechanism. You can use pins or needles to remove the debris. However, it is best to contact a locksmith in order to perform a thorough inspection and remove the broken window repair piece.

A deadbolt which won't extend through the strike plate could be a sign of a malfunctioning locking mechanism. Over time the screws that secure the deadbolt in place may become loose and cause it shift. This can make your home more vulnerable to burglars. If the deadbolt still shifts it is possible to upgrade the hardware.

In the end, if you're experiencing trouble with an cylinder lock that does not turn with the key it could be because the key cylinder is 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. These items can be kept in a handy bottle and used periodically to keep your locks in good condition. A locking system that is lubricated will last longer than a non-lubricated lock.

Check the Hinges

If your door lock turns easily when the door is opened but won't stay locked when you close it hinges that are loose are usually to be blamed. This is a problem that can be fixed. First, tighten the hinge screws to ensure that they aren't sliding. If the problem persists, Door Lock Repair try adding or removing the hinge's shim' to change the alignment. These plates made of small metal are available in hardware stores and online.

You can also smooth the edges of the hinge mortises, which are the slots which hold the hinges to ensure that they are in a straight line with the frame. The latch bolt may also be too high or low in the strikeplate. To determine this, smear a little lipstick on the latch and then place an area of masking tape on the strike plate. When you close the front door the lipstick will stain any part of the tape that it touches. This will indicate whether the latch is located above or below the hole.

If the latch doesn't engage properly with the strikeplate it could be due to dirt or grime. A q-tip soaked in graphite or silicone spray can remove the obstruction, allowing the lock to function exactly as it is supposed to.

If the issue is still not fixed after using the lubricant, then the lock cylinder could be seized and need to be replaced. This is a job that should be left to an expert however, it's not too difficult for anyone who has experience with basic home conservatory repairs near me. When replacing the lock's cylinder, make sure you choose one that has been tested and rated by the BHMA to ensure that there are no issues with fitting and finish.

The hardware used to lock the door could be unprofessional or poorly made. This type of lock may require more maintenance and last less than a top-quality lock. If this is the case, switching to a better lock will typically solve the problem. To ensure that your lock lasts for a long time, select a lock with an endurance rating of B or higher.

Make sure you check the Strike Plate

A door latch that fails to reach the strike plate may cause a variety of issues. It may stop the door from closing and latching correctly or make it difficult to unlock. It's not as difficult to fix it as it may seem. Doors that are sagging, gravity, and even foundation movement can cause a misalignment of the latch and the strike plate. Fortunately, simple adjustments are often enough to fix the issue.

If lubricating and tightening the hinges isn't enough it could be required to move the strike plate to a different position so that it aligns with the latch. To do this, take off the strikeplate and mark the location where the latch contacts it. Mark this area using caulk, lipstick, or a stripe of masking tape. If the mark is lower than where the strike plate hole is, this means that the latch is hitting the plate too high. A lower strike plate position could solve the issue. If the mark is higher than the strike plate hole, you can move the strike plate up a bit.

Once you have determined the direction in which the strike plate should be adjusted, remove the strikeplate from the frame. Keep the screws in a secure place to allow you to replace them at a later time. You will also need to grease the strike plate's keyway to make sure it moves effortlessly.

You can do this by applying lipstick, paint or chalk to the latch. You can do this with paint, lipstick or chalk. After closing the door open it up and check whether the mark is visible on the latch or the masking. If the mark is below the strikeplate, it means that the latch is hitting the strikeplate too low. A higher strikeplate position can fix the issue.

To adjust the latch to adjust the strike plate, take it out from the mortise, and then expand it using a sharp knife or chisel, and a hammer to allow the strike plate to move upwards or downwards to match the latch's position. Check the door repairman after the strike plate has been moved to verify that it closes and latches effortlessly. Once you've finished the adjustments, it's time to reconnect the strikeplate to the door's frame and fill in any screw holes or gaps with woodfill that matches the rest of the frame.