9 Most Common Door Lock Problems

We are all aware that the fundamental function of door locks is to keep everyone and everything within a property safe. Without door locks, anybody, including burglars, house invaders, and other unsavory people, may readily access residences.

If you want your house to be secure, ensure your door locks are in good working order to protect your loved ones and possessions.

However, door locks are not impenetrable, and every household will face door lock issues at some point in their lives. If your home’s locks are particularly old, you will need to have them repaired or replaced at some time to ensure that your home’s security is not jeopardized. Watch out for these typical door lock issues outlined by an expert Denver locksmith, and respond quickly before it’s too late.

The Most Common Door Issues You Might Face

Making sure all the locks in your home are functioning as they’re supposed to is essential in keeping your property safe from intruders. That’s why it’s important that you know what exactly to look for when inspecting your home’s locks. Here are some of the lock issues to look out for:

1. Inserting the key is tricky.

Do not contact a locksmith yet. Check whether it’s the proper key since you may have misidentified it. The lock may also require cleaning, especially if you last did it ages ago.

If you are confident that you are using the right key and that the lock is clean, it is preferable to contact a reputable locksmith since either the key or the lock has been broken.

2. The door lock is broken.

Sometimes the mechanism of the lock breaks. In this instance, you will require quick door lock repair or replacement.

3. The key snapped in the lock.

Breaking a key while inside a lock is a significant issue. If you use enough force to break your key, you may also have a broken lock mechanism and a broken key stuck in your lock.

Avoid this common issue by being cautious when locking and opening your doors. If you break your key in the lock, you must remove the broken key fragments from the keyway of the door lock. Typically, locksmiths will use an extraction tool to do this. If you cannot extract the damaged component, contact a professional locksmith.

4. The lock and door components are both loose.

Loose door components may appear easy, but looks may be deceiving. Some people have had trouble opening their doors owing to unsecured door components and have been locked out of their houses. Loose door components also make it simpler for criminals to gain entry.

Loose door components are particularly harmful in fire doors. Some fire door locks include active latch bolts that aid in fire containment; a loose fire door lock allows the flames to spread more quickly.

Locks, door knobs, and handles will eventually become loose and cause difficulties. This is especially true of external doors, which serve as crucial access and departure points. These are repaired by tightening their screws. Contact a professional locksmith if the situation appears more difficult or your door lock requires replacement.

5. The key is inoperable.

Keys not working? First, make sure you’re using the correct key. If you are, contact a locksmith to check your keys and establish if your lock is faulty or malfunctioning.

6. The bolt and lock are out of place.

If your door does not latch properly, it may require adjustment. For the lock to operate effectively, the bolt must be perfectly aligned with the striking plate, and the door must also fit its frame.

Let specialists examine your locks annually to ensure alignment, saving money and keeping you safe from potential home breakers.

7. The key turns the whole lock cylinder.

You should be able to lock or unlock your doors by inserting your key into the lock cylinder and twisting it. If, however, the entire lock cylinder spins along with the key, the lock is the central issue and should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. This is frequently caused by a broken or loose set screw, which must be accessed and tightened.

This solution may differ depending on the type of door lock you have. You can try to fix it yourself, but hiring an expert locksmith who can do the job correctly and efficiently is the best option.

8. The locks have become frozen.

The combination of moisture and cold weather might cause your locks to freeze. Avoid inserting a key into a frozen lock; otherwise, you risk breaking the key. Frozen locks are tough to repair; instead, call an emergency locksmith.

9. The latches and locks have become stuck.

Locks become jammed for various causes, such as a clogged internal mechanism or a broken lock bolt or latch. Pay attention to common door problems like these because they could indicate a broken key or lock, an attempted break-in, or other more significant issues.

The Big Idea

Homeowners should not disregard door knobs that have a lock and key issues. They may appear to be minor issues at first, but if not handled promptly, they can become more extensive and more challenging to fix. If you’re at a loss for what to do, contact a reputable locksmith to repair your door lock.