How to Repair a Worn Door Lock? 

A worn door lock can make it difficult to unlock or lock the doors in your home. If you notice that your keys are unable to turn the lock smoothly, it’s time to have a professional inspect the issue and make sure it can be fixed. Here are some tips to help you repair your worn door lock: 

(Looking for key duplication service? Contact us today!)

1. Loose Screws

Often, a lock that has loose screws will still be functioning perfectly. However, the loose screws are a sign that you need to tighten them up and fix them. This is a relatively simple DIY job that requires a Phillips screwdriver and the correct tool for your specific type of lock. 

2. Knobs That Do Not Work

A knob that does not function properly is a common problem for locks with a thumb turn plate. It can be a sign that there is something stuck in the spindle, or that the key has worn down to the point of needing replacement. To determine the issue, remove the knob and check if the machine responds to key movement. If it does not, the knob is likely damaged and needs to be replaced. 

3. Unstable Lock Cylinder

A cylinder that is unstable can be caused by either a damaged set screw or a broken spindle. This issue can be tricky to repair because you need access to the set screws. It’s important to know the location of these screws so you can locate them before you start working on the cylinder. 

4. Deadbolt That Does Not Unlock

A deadbolt that does not unlock is a sign of an issue with the latch plate. This is a rectangular piece of metal on the door jam that sits in the hole that the deadbolt is attached to. If the latch plate is twisted or misplaced, the latch may not open when you try to push it in. 

5. A Cracked Key

A cracked or faulty key is another common issue for locks that do not function correctly. You should reach out to a local locksmith and ask them if they can replace the broken key for you. 

6. Unstable Door Frame

A door frame that has shifted over time or with changes in temperature and weather can also cause the latch or deadbolt to no longer be aligned with the hole it was supposed to line up with. This can be a tricky problem to identify, but it’s a good idea to try to find out what’s causing the issue by opening and closing the door several times. 

7. A Stuck Door

When a door is sticky, it’s usually a sign that the hinges are coming loose or that the door frame has shifted over time. In this case, it’s necessary to reinstall the hinges or the frame to make the door work again. 

8. A Broken Bolt or Latch

The first thing that you need to do when a bolt or latch is not opening is to check for a break-in. The most common way for a criminal to break in is to bang on a door with a hammer or to drill through the deadbolt.