How to Do Your Own Lock Repair

You can either fix your locks yourself or engage a professional locksmith when they become faulty. Lock repair can be tricky, and the wrong approach could cause further damage.

The first step is to make sure the issue isn't caused by dirt or dust. This is usually solved by applying a graphite-based spray or silicone based fluid.

1. Door Handle or Knob Loose

Door knobs and handles may be loose as time passes, which could result in a jiggly door handle or knob that is difficult to open. It is crucial to replace loose door knobs since they can be a nuisance and can also compromise the security of your building. Fortunately, a loose doorknob or handle is relatively simple to repair. Based on the type of lock system that is installed on your door, there are many options to fix this. Some lock systems have easily accessible mounting screws, while others use backplates that hide the screws. This is a more complicated method if your door uses a backplate that conceals the screws.

Most interior doorknobs are designed to slide over a spindle that is cylindrical, that is inserted into the door as part of the latch assembly. If the knob you have is jiggly it could be because of the small screw, also known as a set screw, located on the inside of the doorknob which is stopping it from sliding over the spindle. Use an flashlight to locate the set screw, and then use an Allen wrench to tighten it. After the screw has been tightened, turn the knob to check if it feels solid.

If your knob feels jiggly, it's possible that the set screw isn't placed properly. To ensure that the screw is properly positioned you should look for a small, identical button on the spindle. Place the knob on the spindle after pressing the button using the screwdriver that has a flat head. The knob should move into the proper position when you do this, indicating it is in the correct position on the spindle.

After ensuring the set screw is positioned properly and tighten it once more to fix the knob or handle in the correct position. This should resolve the issue, but if not, you may have to take the knob off and check the backplate for missing or loose screws. If this is the case, you'll need to replace these screws before you can re-secure the knob or handle. If you aren't comfortable with this kind repair, you must seek out an expert locksmith who can offer repairs for damaged locks.

2. The key won't spin in the lock.

There are several reasons why the lock key might stop turning. One of the most common reasons is that the pins in the cylinder have begun to wear out, which means they no longer have the proper shape to move the sliders, wafers, or tumblers that allow the key to open the lock. In this case spraying the lock with lubricant based on silicone or graphite spray will coat the pins to enable them to move.

However, if the issue is more severe and the key has been bent out of shape, it may be necessary to have it professionally straightened. A professional locksmith will use an instrument that is specially designed with an angled edge that fits into the groove at the tip of the key. This type of tool isn't available in hardware stores, however you can purchase a kit with the right tools online or in the locksmith shop.

Another possibility is that the lock is dirty or contaminated. As time passes, dust will accumulate in the lock cylinder, which could cause the springs and pins to seize up. In this situation, you'll need to spray the lock with graphite spray or a lubricant made of silicone to clean it out and return the pins to their original position.

If the key itself has become damaged, it could be a problem. Over time, repeated use can cause wear and tear on the grooves of a key. This could cause the key to not fit in the cylinder. It is essential to regularly check to make sure that the key is fitted correctly.

Locks can freeze in the winter months. This will stop the springs and pins from moving when keys are placed. This is a problem that can be frustrating, but is usually easily solved by warming the lock by using hot water and then applying lubrication. If the lock is damaged or frozen beyond repair, it may need to be replaced by an expert.

3. The lock isn't turning

It can be frustrating to find a lock that won't turn or open. If it happens frequently you may want to consider contacting locksmiths to examine the lock and see if they can help. Fortunately, this isn't always necessary as there are some issues that can be easily repaired without the need for professional assistance.

The key won't turn in the lock if damaged. It could happen if you have lost your key, or if it is damaged inside the lock. Instead of trying to pull it out of the lock which could cause the damaged piece of the key to push further inside the mechanism and cause the problem to become more severe Try using needle-nosed pliers to take it out of the lock. Be careful not to break off any of the broken piece using the pliers, or you could cause damage to the lock.

It's also possible that the lock isn't aligned correctly, which can cause the door to not latch correctly. If you have an additional lock key, you can test it to ensure that the lock functions properly. If you discover that the lock isn't aligned properly, tightening the screws around the strike plate can solve the issue and allow the lock to function normally.

Another reason why your key may not be turning is that there is dust or dirt in the lock that is preventing it from moving. This issue can be fixed by using an lubricant made of silicone or graphite to cover the pins of the lock. This allows them to move up and down in a normal manner. It is important to avoid using oils-based products such as WD-40 for this though as these can cause further clogging problems down the road.

It's important to note that some keys simply won't fit in all locks. If your key is one of these then it's time to get a new key made at the local hardware store to ensure that it can be used inside the lock.


4. The Cylinder is Rotating

When a cylinder is rotated within a confinement gap it could result in the formation of hairpin vortices which can cause significant forces on the cylinder. upvc window lock repair are proportional to dimensionless curvature radius x and the confinement factor. The cylinder's head, tube and main body are all made of aluminum alloy.

If you're able to insert your key in and turn it, but the lock is still rotating, there may be an issue with the cylinder itself. Rekeying the lock can solve the issue. There are kits specifically designed for this purpose, and can be purchased online or in many big box stores.