Door locks are important for the security of your home and should be checked regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly. Unfortunately, many homeowners experience common door lock problems such as sticky latch mechanisms, broken screws, malfunctioning keys, and jammed deadbolts. Not only can these issues cause discomfort and inconvenience but they can also leave you vulnerable to theft or burglary. To keep your property safe, it is essential to understand the warning signs of door lock problems and why you must fix them quickly.
Ronda Single Cylinder Deadbolt - Polished Stainless Steel
60mm Commercial Latch - BlackCommon Security Lock Problems and How to Fix
Common Door Hardware Problems and Solutions
Sticky Latch Mechanisms
One of the most common door lock problems faced by homeowners is a sticky latch mechanism. Over time, dirt and debris can build up in the latch bolt hole leading to difficulty unlocking or locking the door from either side.
This problem can be easily solved with a simple cleaning session using a damp cloth or vacuum cleaner with an attachment specifically designed for crevices. If this does not work then you may need to replace the entire latch mechanism for optimal security.
Broken Screws
Another problem that may arise is loose screws or broken screws that no longer secure the door handle in place properly. This can cause difficulty when opening or closing the door as well as gaps that allow moisture in that could lead to further damage down the line.
To fix this issue you will need to unscrew the old screws and replace them with new ones of appropriate size according to your particular model of the door handle.
Malfunctioning Keys
Keys that fail to turn properly in their keyhole are another common problem faced by homeowners with regard to door locks. Over time keys become worn down due to regular use which causes them not to fit into their slot anymore thus preventing proper locking or unlocking from either side of the door.
It is recommended that you get a professional locksmith out if this happens as they can re-key your existing lock set so you have more reliable access in the future without needing an entirely new one installed which would be more expensive overall.
Jammed Deadbolts
Deadbolts are important for security purposes yet they too often suffer from jamming problems due to dirt buildup over time or wear and tear after frequent usage. Jammed deadbolts make it very difficult for homeowners to lock their doors securely leaving them vulnerable to potential break-ins so it should be addressed right away before it becomes a bigger issue requiring an entire replacement job instead of just some minor tweaks here and there like with other types of locksets mentioned above.
Fortunately, most jammed deadbolt issues can be resolved simply by spraying lubricant into its keyhole which will free up any stuck parts allowing normal operation again soon after application. Although it is always wise to seek assistance from a professional if unsure about doing this on your own as mistakes could end up costing more than expected.
Therefore, it is essential that our homes have reliable locking mechanisms installed in order to protect them from intruders. This will also add value to our home when we sell it down the road. In other words, if you notice any signs that your lockset(s) are malfunctioning, act fast before things become worse, or you may require much larger repairs in the future.
For more information about maintaining the door hardware across your home, please refer to our Maintenance page.
