Door Lock Repair – How to Fix Common Problems
A lock that doesn’t latch properly is a clear indication that it’s time to get it repaired. The testers from CR mark the spot where the latch is in contact with the strike plate using lipstick. The tightening of the hinge screws can fix the issue.
Spraying a dry lubricant like powdered graphite or WD-40 on the lock’s cylinder could also aid.
Check the Latch
The latch is the bolt that extends into the door frame to secure the lock when retracted by the knob or handle. Deadbolts as well as positive locking latches are popular options for additional security. If the latch does not close or latch properly, it could be because of a misalignment in the latch and strikeplate within the door frame.
A common cause is hinges that are loose. They can loosen with time and cause the latch to be off its strike plate. Use a lipstick test to check. Apply some lipstick to the edge of the latch and stick an ad-hoc strip of masking tape to the strike plate. Close the door and you’ll be able to see where the latch connects to the plate. This will tell you if the contact point is too high or low for proper operation.
If the latch is contacting the strike plate at a distance of more than 1/8 inches high or too low, you’ll have to move the strike plate. This is a straightforward task that is typically accomplished without the need to remove the doors. It’s just a matter of using a file to enlarge the strike hole of the plate. The most suitable file is a half-round one, since it’s a good match to the curve in the strike plate hole.
After repositioning the strike plate, you’ll need to tighten screws that secure it to the door’s frame. This should be enough to allow your door glaze to latch and close correctly. If this isn’t working tighten the hinge screws on either side of the door and check if this helps.
If the latch is out of alignment even after lubrication, you must take more extreme measures. You can remove the strike plate, Industrial door repair near me and then use a chisel sharp on the mortise of the strike plate to allow you to move the latch up and down. You can also use a steel filing to alter the shape of your strike plate so that it fits better into the mortise. This is an option you may want to consider if your RV has many bumps and dips along the highway and you’re concerned that it might fall off in the course of travel.
Check the Keyway
If your lock isn’t working properly, you may be leaving yourself and your property open to burglars. The good news is that certain kinds of door lock issues can be resolved without the need for a professional. This includes a lock or key that won’t turn. If you can identify a problem, you are more likely to solve it yourself.
If your keys don’t fit into or turn smoothly It could have rough spots that you have to smooth off. Locksmiths can do this for you however it’s a simple do-it-yourself project that you can attempt at home. Place the key in and move it around looking for a spot that’s producing friction. If you spot any of these spots, use a metal filing to smooth the rough spots.
Another frequent issue with door locks is a jammed or locked bolt or latch. This can be caused by debris or a broken piece of key that has become lodged in the mechanism. You may try using a pin or needle to clear the debris, but it’s best to contact an expert locksmith for a more thorough examination and removal of the broken piece.
A deadbolt that isn’t extended beyond the strike plate can also be an indication of a malfunctioning lock. 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 is still shifting, you may need to upgrade the hardware.
Finally, if you’re having difficulties with an cylinder lock that does not rotate with the key it could be due to the key cylinder is stuck. If this is the case then you should consider using an oil-based fluid to lubricate it. You can also use dry graphite spray, lubricant or WD-40 to lubricate your key cylinder and get rid of any buildup. Keep a bottle of these items in your pocket and use them periodically to keep your locks in good shape. A lock that is lubricated is more likely to last longer than locks that aren’t.
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 usually to be blamed. This problem is easily fixable. To fix the issue fix it, tighten all the screws on the hinges. If the issue persists, you might try removing or adding the hinge’s shims’ to alter the alignment. These plates made of small metal are available at hardware stores or online.
You can also smooth the edges of mortises of the hinges, which are the slots that hold the hinges, to allow them to sit flush with the frame. Another common reason for problems locking is that the bolt for the latch could be too high or low in the strike plate. To determine this, smear some lipstick on the latch and then place an area of masking tape over the strike plate. When you shut the door the lipstick will rub off the part of the tape it touches and leave a mark that will indicate whether the latch is in contact with the strike plate above or below the hole.
Finally, if the latch isn’t engaging properly with the strike plate, it could be due to a buildup of dirt and grime. This debris can be cleaned by soaking a q-tip in graphite or silicone spray.
If the problem continues to persist after using the lubricant, it may be that the lock cylinder is jammed and requires replacement. This is a task for an expert, but it’s not too difficult for someone familiar with basic home repair. If you’re replacing the lock’s cylinders, ensure that they have been tested and rated BHMA approved to avoid problems with fitting or finishing.
The door lock hardware may be flimsy or poorly designed. This kind of lock is likely to require more maintenance than a high-quality lock, and may not last as long. If this is the situation, upgrading to a more durable lock will typically solve the issue. To ensure that your lock lasts for many years, select a lock with an endurance rating of B or greater.
Verify the Strike Plate
A door latch that doesn’t reach the strike plate could cause a number of problems. It could prevent the door from closing and latching properly or make it more difficult to unlock. It’s not as hard to fix as it appears. The force of gravity, sagging hinges, and even the movement of your home foundation can cause the latch to not align 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 could be required to move the strike plate to a new position so that it aligns with the latch. To do this, first take off the strike plate and mark the area where the latch makes contact with it. You can use a caulk, lipstick or a strip of masking tape that will stain as you close the door Window handle Repair (Read A lot more) to mark this location. If the mark is located below the strike plate’s hole, it is a sign that the latch is hitting the plate too high, and an lower strike plate position will solve the issue. If the mark is higher than the strikeplate hole, you may need to move the strikeplate upwards.
Once you know which direction the strike plate must be adjusted, upvc windows repair near me take it from the frame. keep the screws in a safe location to replace them later. You should also apply lubrication to the keyway of your strike plate to ensure it moves easily.
You can apply chalk, paint or lipstick to the latch. This can be done by applying paint, lipstick or chalk to the latch. After closing the door, you can open it to see where the mark was left on the latch or [Redirect-302] masking tape. If the mark is lower than the strike plate, it indicates that the latch is hitting the strike plate too low and the higher position of the strike plate will resolve the problem.
To adjust the strike plate, you must remove it from the mortise. Then with a sharp knife, chisel, or hammer, widen the plate to ensure that it can be moved either upwards or downwards to align with the position of the latch. Once the strike plate is moved, test the door to make sure it shuts and latches smoothly. After you have completed the adjustments, you can reconnect the strike plate to the door frame and window handle Repair fill in any existing gaps or holes using wood filler that is the same color as the the door frame.