Door Lock Repair - How to Fix Common Problems

If a lock doesn't latch properly is a clear indication that it's time to get it repaired. Testers at CR employ lipstick to mark where the latch contacts the strike plate; tightening the hinge screws could fix the problem.

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

Check the Latch

The latch is a bolt that extends beyond the door frame and locks the lock when the knob or handle is pulled back. Popular options for increased Security Door Repairs include deadbolts and positive-locking latches. If yours will not close or latch properly it may be because of a misalignment in the latch and strikeplate in the door frame.

The most common reason is hinges that have become loose, and they may sag with time, causing the latch to go over the strike plate. Test the hinges using a lipstick to check. Apply some lipstick to the edge of the latch, and then place the strip of masking tape on the strike plate. Close the door and you'll see where the latch touches 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 need to move the strike plate. Fortunately, this is usually an easy job that can be accomplished without having to take the door off. You'll need a filing to enlarge the strike hole for your plate. A half-round file is best since it matches the contour of the strike plate hole.

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

If the latch is still out of alignment even after lubrication, you'll need to take more drastic measures. You can take off the strike plate, and then use a chisel that is sharp on the mortise of the strike plate, allowing you to move the latch up and down. You can also use a steel filing to shape your strike plate to fit better into the mortise. This is an option you might be considering when your vehicle is prone to bumps and dips on the highway, and you're worried that it might fall off in the course of travel.

Make sure you check the Keyway

If a lock isn't functioning properly, it can leave your home vulnerable to burglars. The good news is, some kinds of door lock issues can be fixed without the need for a professional. This includes a lock or key that doesn't turn. 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 in or turning easily It could be having rough spots that need to be filed off. You can hire a locksmith to do it for security door repairs you, or you can do it yourself. Move the key around until you can find a place that is causing friction. If you spot any of these spots, use a fine metal filing to smooth out the rough areas.

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

A deadbolt that doesn't stay extended through the strike plate could be a sign of a faulty lock. The screws that connect the deadbolt will loosen over time and cause it to move, making your home more vulnerable to break-ins. Removing the screws may assist, but if your deadbolt continues to shift, it may be time to invest in some superior hardware.

If you are having trouble with a cylinder which won't turn when you turn the key, the cylinder might be stuck. If this is the cause you can try the grease. You can also use dry lubricant or WD-40 spray to lubricate and remove any buildup. Keep the bottles of these items in your pocket and use them regularly to ensure your locks are in good shape. A lubricated lock is more likely to last longer than locks that aren't.

Check the Hinges

If the door lock cylinder is turning easily when the door is open but it doesn't lock when you close it, loose hinges are often to blame. This problem can be easily fixed. First tighten the screws on the hinges to ensure that they aren't getting sagging. If the issue continues, try adding or removing the hinge's shim' to change the alignment. These small metal plates are available at hardware stores and online.

You can also smooth the edges of mortises of the hinges, which are the slots that hold the hinges to help them sit in a straight line with the frame. Another reason for trouble locking is that the latch bolt may be too high or low in the strike plate. To determine this, smear a little lipstick on the latch, then put 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 comes into contact with and leave a mark that shows whether the latch is in contact with the strike plate above or below the hole.

Finally, if the latch isn't working properly with the strike plate it may be due to a buildup of grime and dirt. A q-tip coated with graphite or silicon spray can remove the debris, allowing the lock to function as it is supposed to.

If the issue is still not resolved after applying an oil-based lubricant, the lock cylinder could be jammed and need to be replaced. This is a task for an expert, but it's not that difficult for anyone who is familiar with basic home window repair. When replacing the lock's cylinder, make sure you choose one that's been tested and rated by the BHMA to ensure that there are no issues with fit and finish.

Another reason that could cause problems latching is if the hardware for the door lock is not well-made or of a low quality. This type of lock is likely to require more maintenance than a high-quality lock, and it may not last as long. Upgrade to a higher-quality lock is usually the best solution to this problem. To ensure that your lock lasts for many years, select a lock with a durability rating of B or greater.

Verify the Strike Plate

A door latch that does not reach the strike plate could cause a range of problems that range from blocking the door Door fitters from closing and latching properly to making it more difficult to open. It's not as difficult to fix as you might think. Doors that are sagging, gravity, and even foundation movement can result in an error in the alignment of the latch with the strike plate. It's a good thing that simple adjustments are usually enough to correct the issue.

If you have tried lubricating and tightening the hinges, but it doesn't fix the problem it might be required to move the strike plate to a different position so that it aligns with the latch. To do this, remove the strikeplate and mark the spot where the latch contacts it. You can use caulk, lipstick or a strip of masking tape that will stain as you close the door to mark this spot. If the mark is below the strike plate hole it means that the latch is striking the plate too high. an lower strike plate position will solve the issue. If the mark is higher than the strike plate hole you can move the strike plate up small amount.

After you have identified the direction in which the strike plate must be adjusted, you can remove the strikeplate from the frame. Keep the screws in a secure place so that you can replace them at a later date. It is also necessary to grease the keyway of the strike plate to ensure it can move effortlessly.

You can apply lipstick, paint or chalk to the latch. You can do this with lipstick, paint, or chalk. After closing the door, open it and see whether the mark is visible on the latch or the masking. If the mark is located below the strikeplate, it indicates that the latch is hitting the strikeplate too low. A higher strikeplate angle can fix the issue.

To adjust the latch to adjust the strike plate, take it out from the mortise and then widen it with a sharp knife or chisel, and a Hammer to allow the strike plate to shift upward or downward to align with the latch's position. Once the strike plate has moved, you can test the door to make sure it closes and latches easily. Once you've finished the adjustments, you'll have to attach the strikeplate back to the door's frame and fill any holes or gaps with woodfiller that matches the frame's rest.