10 Easy Ways To Figure Out Your Lock Repair
How to Do Your Own Lock Repair
If your locks fail If your locks fail, you can fix them yourself or employ an expert locksmith. However, lock repair can be tricky and the wrong approach could result in further damage.
The first step is to ensure that the issue isn't caused by dirt or dust. A Graphite-based spray or a silicone-based lubricant can be used to solve this issue.
1. replacement window lock or Knob Lock
Over time, door knobs and handles can become loose. This could result in an unbalanced knob or handle that is difficult for you to open. It is essential to replace loose door knobs because they're not just annoying but also can affect the security of your home. Fortunately, a broken doorknob or handle is relatively simple to fix. There are a few different methods to fix it, dependent on the type of lock your door comes with. Certain lock systems have easily accessible mounting screws, whereas others use backplates to hide the screws. If your door has the second type, this process may be more complicated.
Most doorknobs with interiors have a tiny screw referred to as an setscrew located on the inside of the knob, which prevents it from sliding over the spindle. This is a part of the latch assembly. If yours is jiggly, it could be due to a tiny screw known as a set screw located inside the knob that blocks it from sliding across spindle. You can make use of an flashlight to locate the set screw and then tighten it using an Allen wrench. Once the screw is tightened then turn the knob to verify if it feels secure.
If your knob feels uneven, it could be that the set screw isn't in place properly. Find a small button that matches the spindle to make sure the screw is in the proper position. Depress the button with the flat-head screwdriver, then slide the knob over the spindle. The knob should move into the proper position as you do this, which indicates that it is positioned correctly on the spindle.
Once you've verified that the set screw is properly positioned and tightened it again to secure the knob. If this does not resolve the issue, you might have to remove the knob from the backplate and look for loose or missing screws. You'll need to replace the screws in this case before you can install the knob or handle. If you aren't comfortable with this kind of repair, call an expert locksmith who can offer repair for damaged locks to assist.
2. Key Won't Turn in Lock
There are a variety of reasons that your key may stop turning in the lock. One of the most frequent reasons is that the pins in the cylinder have worn down. This means that they do not have the proper shape that allows for the sliders or wafers to be moved by the key. In this case spraying the lock with silicone-based lubricant or graphite spray can help coat the pins and make them move again.
If the problem is more severe, and the key has bent it may be necessary to have it straightened by a professional. A professional locksmith can use an instrument specifically designed to straighten the key which is designed with an angled end that fits into the groove that is recessed on the tip of the key. This kind of tool isn't readily available in hardware stores, however you can find a kit that includes the proper tools online or at an establishment that sells locksmith tools.
Another possibility is that the lock has become dirty or contaminated. Over time, dust can accumulate in the lock cylinder, which can cause the springs and pins to swell up. In this case, spray the lock with graphite or WD-40 spray to clean out the pins, and then return them to their original position.
It may also be a problem in the event that the key is damaged. Over time, the repeated use can wear down the grooves of a key. This can lead to the key not fitting into the cylinder, therefore it's crucial to pay attention and make sure that your key is fitted correctly.
Locks can freeze in the winter months. This can stop the springs and pins from moving when keys are put in. This can be a frustrating issue however, it can be resolved by warming the lock up by using hot water and then applying lubrication. If the lock is damaged beyond repair or has froze, it will need to be replaced.
3. The Lock isn't Turning
If you've ever had an unresponsive lock and can't be opened, it can be very frustrating. If this happens frequently it is advisable to consider hiring a locksmith to take a look at the lock to see whether they can assist. This isn't always needed however, as some issues can be solved by yourself.
The key will not rotate in the lock if damaged. You may experience this when you've lost your key, or it is damaged inside the lock. Instead of trying to fish the key from the lock, which could cause it to be further pushed into the mechanism, and make it worse you can use needle-nosedpliers to take the key from the lock. Be careful not to damage the lock by cutting off any part of the broken key with the pliers.
It's possible that your lock isn't aligned correctly and this could cause the door to not latch properly. If you happen to have an extra key, this can be tested inside the lock to ensure that it is working properly and doesn't cause the issue. If you find that the lock is not properly aligned, tightening the screws around the strikeplate will fix the issue and allow the lock to function normally.
A lock may not turn due to dust or dirt. This problem can be solved by using the lubricant based on silicon or graphite to coat the pins of the lock. This will allow them to move up & down normally. You should avoid using oils-based products, like WD-40, because they can cause more obstructions in the future.
It is important to remember that some keys don't fit in all locks. If your key is one of these, it might be time to get a replacement key from the local hardware store to ensure that it will work inside the lock.
4. The Cylinder Is Rotating
When a cylinder rotates in a confinement space, it can cause the formation of hairpin vortices that can result in significant forces on the cylinder. These forces are proportional the dimensions of the curvature radius x and the confinement factor. The head, tube and main body of the cylinder are made of aluminium alloy.
If you're able insert your key inside and turn it, but the lock is still rotating, there may be an issue with the cylinder. Rekeying your lock could resolve the issue. You can buy kits to do this online or in many big box stores.