Door Lock Repair - How to Fix Common Problems

A lock that isn't latching properly is a clear indication that it's in need of being repaired. Testers at CR employ lipstick to mark where the latch meets the strike plate. Tightening the hinge screws may solve the issue.

Spraying a dry lubricant such as graphite powder or WD-40 that is powdered powder on the lock's cylinder could also help.

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. Deadbolts and positive locking latches are popular choices for extra security. If yours won't close or latch correctly it could be due to an unaligned latch and strike plate within the door frame.

A common cause is hinges that have become loose, and they may sag with time which causes the latch to be unable to reach the strike plate. Use a lipstick test to determine. Apply some lipstick on the edges of latch and attach the strip of masking tape to the strike plate. Close the door, and you'll be able to see where the latch contacts the plate. This will help determine 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 have to move the strike plate. This is a simple job that is typically accomplished without removing the upvc doors. You'll need an extension file to increase the size of the strike hole in the plate. A half-round file is best since it matches the shape of the strike hole in the plate.

After moving the strike plate, you'll need to tighten screws that secure it to the frame of the door. This should be sufficient to allow the door to latch and close properly. If this isn't working tighten the hinge screws on either side of the door and see if that helps.

If the latch remains out of alignment after lubrication, you'll need to take more drastic measures. You could try taking off the strike plate and using a chisel that is sharp to expand the mortise of the strike plate and allow you to move the strike up or down. Alternatively, you can make use of a metal file reshape the strike plate so it will fit better into the mortise. You might want to consider this option if you're concerned about the strike plate falling off when you travel in your RV.

Make sure you check the Keyway

If your lock isn't working properly, you may be leaving yourself and your property vulnerable to burglars. The good news is that some kinds of problems with door locks can be solved without the need for professional assistance. This is the case with a lock or a key that isn't turning. If you can identify a problem, you are more likely to be able to repair it yourself.

If your key isn't moving into or turning easily It could be having rough spots that need to be sanded off. Locksmiths can help you with this however, it's also a simple do-it-yourself project that you can do at home. Insert the key and move it around trying to find a spot that is producing friction. If you find any of these spots, use a fine metal filing to smooth the rough areas.

Another issue with door locks is a locked or jammed bolt or latch. It could be due to debris or a broken piece of key that has become lodged in the mechanism. You may try using a pin or needle to remove the debris, however, it's recommended to contact an expert locksmith for a more thorough examination and removal of the broken piece.

A deadbolt that isn't extending through the strike plate could be a sign of a defective locking mechanism. The screws that connect the deadbolt may loosen over time, which can cause it to move which makes your home vulnerable to burglaries. Changing the screws can aid, Cheap Double Glazed Windows but if the deadbolt is still moving, it may be time to invest in some superior hardware.

If you are having trouble with a cylinder which won't rotate when you turn the key, the cylinder might be stuck. If this is the case, 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 products can be kept in a handy bottle and used on a regular basis to maintain your locks. A lubricated lock is more likely to last longer than one that isn't.

Check the Hinges

A loose hinge could be the cause of a door lock cylinder that rotates easily when the door is opened but fails to lock when closed. This is a problem that can be fixed. First tighten the screws on the hinges to ensure they're not sliding. If the issue persists, you might try removing or adding hinge'shims' to adjust alignment. These plates made of metal can be found in hardware stores and on the internet.

Sand the edges of the hinge mortises (the slots that hold the hinges) to make them flush with the frame. Another common reason for problems locking is that the bolt for the latch could be too high or too low in the strike plate. To determine this, apply a small amount of lipstick on the latch. Then, place a strip of masking tape on the strike plate. When you shut the door the lipstick will smear the area of the tape it comes into contact with and leave a mark that will indicate whether the latch is in contact with 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. This debris can be removed by soaking a q-tip in graphite or silicone spray.

If the issue is not solved after applying an oil-based lubricant, the lock cylinder could be jammed and need to be replaced. This is a job best left to an expert, but not too difficult for someone who is familiar with basic home repairs. If you're replacing the lock cylinders, ensure that they have been tested and rated BHMA approved to avoid any issues with the fit or finish.

Another possible cause of trouble latching is if the door lock hardware is not well-made or of a low quality. This type of lock may require more maintenance and last longer than a high-quality lock. Switching to a better-quality lock is usually the best solution to this problem. It is important to choose the lock that's rated B or higher in durability to be sure it will stand up to years of use.

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 hinder the door from closing properly and latching or make it more difficult to unlock. It's not as difficult to fix as it may seem. The force of gravity, sagging hinges, Cheap double glazed windows and even movement of the home foundation can cause the latch to be out of alignment with the strike plate however, often a few minor adjustments will fix the issue.

If tightening and lubricating the hinges does not solve the issue it could be required to move the strike plate to a different location to align with the latch. To do this, you must remove the strikeplate and mark the spot where the latch is located. Mark this spot using caulk, lipstick, or a strip of masking tape. If the mark is below the strike plate hole, it indicates that the latch is striking the plate too high. the lower position of the strike plate will solve the problem. If the mark is higher than the strike plate's hole, you can move the strike plate up little.

Once you have determined the direction in which the strike plate has to be adjusted, remove it from the frame and keep the screws in a safe place so you can replace them later. You will also have to lubricate keyway of the strike plate to ensure that it can move easily.

Then, you must determine if the contact point of the latch is above or below the strike plate hole. This can be done using paint, lipstick, or chalk. After closing the door, open it up and check whether the mark remains visible on the latch or the masking. If the mark is below the strike plate, it indicates that the latch is hitting the strike plate too low, and an upper strike plate position will fix the issue.

To adjust the strike plate, remove it from the mortise. Then with a sharp knife, chisel, or hammer widen the plate so that it can be moved downwards or cheap windows upwards to match the position of the latch. Once the strike plate is moved, you can test the door to ensure that it closes and latches easily. After you have completed the adjustments, reconnect the strike plate to the door frame and fill in any old screw holes or gaps using wood filler that matches the color of the the frame of the door.