How to Do Your Own Lock Repair
You can either fix your locks yourself, or employ a professional locksmith if they begin to fail. However, lock repair can be a challenge and the wrong approach could lead to further damage.
The first step is to ensure that the issue isn't caused by dirt or dust. This is usually resolved by applying a graphite-based spray or silicone based oil.
1. Door Handle or Knob Lock
Door knobs and handles can be loose as time passes, which could result in a jiggly door handle or knobs that are difficult to open. Loose door knobs are not only annoying but they can also compromise your building's security, so it is important to find and solve the issue quickly. A doorknob that is loose can be simple to fix. Depending on the lock system installed in your door, there are several ways to fix this. Certain lock systems have easily accessible mounting screws, while others use backplates that hide the screws. This method is more complex if your door uses an underlay that hides the screws.
Most doorknobs with interiors have a small screw called a setscrew that is located on the inside of the knob to prevent it from sliding over the spindle. This is part of the latch assembly. If yours is jiggly it could be due to a small screw, known as a setscrew, on the inside of the knob that prevents it from sliding over spindle. Make use of flashlights to locate the set screw, and then use an Allen wrench to tighten it. Once the screw is tightened then turn the knob to test if it is solid.
If the knob is jiggly it could be because the screw that sets it hasn't been properly positioned. Find an oblique button that is positioned to match the spindle to ensure the screw is in the proper position. Place the knob on the spindle after pressing the button with the screwdriver with a flat head. As you do so the knob should begin to click and show that it is rightly positioned on the spindle.
Once you have ensured that the set screw has been properly placed, tighten it once more to secure the knob. If this does not solve the issue, you might need to remove the knob from the backplate and check for loose or missing screws. If this is the case, you'll require replacing these screws before you can secure the knob or handle. If you're not comfortable with this kind of repair, contact an expert who specializes in repairing damaged locks.
2. The key won't turn in the lock.
There are several reasons why your lock key may stop turning. One of the most common reasons is that the pins within the cylinder are worn down. This means that they no longer have a proper shape that allows for the wafers or sliders to move with the key. In this case the best solution is spraying the lock with graphite spray or lubricant made of silicone to coat the pins and allow them move again.
If the problem is more severe, and the key is bent, you may have to have it straightened by an expert. A professional locksmith will use an instrument that is specially designed with an edge that is curved to fit into the groove on the tip of the key. This kind of tool is not available in hardware stores, but you can purchase a kit that includes the proper tools online or in a locksmith shop.
Another possibility is that the lock is dirty or affected. As time passes, dust will build up in the lock's the cylinder, which may cause the pins and springs to swell up. In this situation, spray the lock with graphite or WD-40 spray to clear the pins and return them to their original positions.
It could also be a problem when the key has been damaged. In time, repeated use can cause wear and tear on the grooves of a key. This can lead to the key not fitting properly into the cylinder, therefore it is important to be aware and make sure whether your key fits properly.
In colder weather locks can freeze, which will prevent the springs and pins from moving when the key is inserted. This can be a frustrating issue however it is usually resolved by warming the lock with hot water and re-lubricating it. However, if window lock repairs near me repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is damaged or frozen beyond repair, it's likely to require replacement by an expert.
3. The lock isn't turning
It can be frustrating to have locks that don't turn or open. If this happens often, you may want to think about having a locksmith come and examine the lock to see whether they can help. This is not always necessary however, as some issues can be solved by yourself.
The key will not turn inside the lock if damaged. This could happen when you've lost your keys or it is broken in the lock. Instead of trying to get it out of the lock which could cause the damaged piece of the key to move further inside the mechanism and make the problem much worse Try using pliers with needles to remove it from the lock. You'll want to be careful not to break off the broken piece by using the pliers or you may end up damaging the lock.
You may also have an improperly aligned lock that could cause the door to not to latch properly. If you have an extra lock key, you may test it to verify that the lock is working properly. If you discover that the lock isn't aligned properly, tightening the screws around the strike plate can fix the issue and allow the lock to perform normally.
A lock may not turn because of dirt or dust. This issue can be fixed by using an lubricant made of silicone or graphite to coat the pins of the lock. This will allow them to move up and down normally. Avoid using oils-based products, like WD-40 for instance, as they can cause more obstructions in the future.
It is important to remember that certain keys won't fit in all locks. If this is the case, you might need to have a new key created by a local hardware store.
4. The Cylinder is Rotating
When a cylinder rotates within a confinement gap it could cause hairpin vortices to form which can lead to significant forces on the cylinder. These forces are proportional to the radius of curvature that is dimensionless x and the confinement factor k. The simplified model that is presented here predicts the effect of these parameters on the force and torque of a confined rotating cylinder. The head, the tube and the main body of the cylinder are made of aluminum alloy.
If you are able to insert your key and turn it but the lock is still rotating the cylinder could be defective. Rekeying your lock could fix this problem. You can buy kits for this purpose on the internet or in most big box stores.
