Solutions to Common Door Lock Problems

We all use doors everyday to get in and out of our homes. Thus, it makes sense that, over time, everyone will face some type of door lock problems. Door locks can act up due to overuse, debris inside the lock, or any number of reasons. A proper working lock is essential for protecting the home and the people we love. We've provided common door lock problems and the solutions to fix them.

Sticking locks - One of the most common door lock problems is a sticking lock. It may be slow in responding, and require a bit of wiggle-work to maneuver the key. This is typically the result of some type of dirt or debris inside the lock itself. To fix a lock that is stuck, lubricate the cylinder with WD-40. Spray it directly into the hole of the lock (where you insert the key) and let it set for a few minutes. Insert the key and wiggle it around a bit to resolve the problem.

Frozen locks - If you live in a cold-weather region, chances are you've dealt with a frozen lock at some point. When a lock is frozen, there is absolutely no penetrating it. Most of us don't have the time to wait for the temps to heat up to lock or unlock the front door, either. A quick way to fix a lock that is frozen is to heat it with a hair dryer. Yes, you may look a bit silly blow drying the front door, but it works, and the lock will unfreeze quickly.

Door lock won't latch - When a door lock won't latch into position, it is a sign that the strike plate (the part of the latch installed on the door jamb) is out of alignment with it. To repair this common lock problem, try adjusting the screws on the strike plate to adjust its height. If this doesn't work, try replacing the strike plate with a new one.

Key broken in lock - When a key gets broke inside the lock, it can be very frustrating. The door lock is rendered useless with an foreign object stuck inside of it. If you can see a portion of the key, you may be able to remove it yourself. Lift up the broken end of the key with a pair or tweezers or other narrow metal object, and then try pulling on it with a pair of needle nose pliers. If this doesn't work, you may be able to gently coax the broken key out with a very thin saw blade. The teeth of the blade make it easier to hold onto the broken key, and when working with a see-saw motion, the key should be removed fairly easily.

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SOURCE:

Personal knowledge

Jennifer Wagner - Yahoo! Contributor Network