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Fix A Door Lock: 3 Easy Steps Before Calling The Experts

MOBILE LOCKSMITHS IN TACOMA

Door Lock Not Working? Here Is Your Ultimate Guide To Fixing It!

 

Have you ever come home to find out that your door lock is not working anymore? As we all know, this can be a very stressful and inconvenient experience. But, what do you do when this happens? 

The first thing you need to do before trying to fix a door lock is to figure out the cause of the problem. It could be something as simple as dead batteries in your key fob or an issue with the locking mechanism itself. If you’re using a traditional key, it could also be due to years of wear and tear on the lock.

The significance of door locks to home security should not be underestimated. To keep yourself and your family safe, it’s important to fix a door lock as soon as possible. If you’re comfortable with DIY projects, a quick Google search can provide information on how to replace or repair the lock yourself.

However, if you need to fix a lock that’s a lot more complicated, it’s best to call in a professional locksmith from Locksmith Tacoma. We will be able to diagnose the issue quickly and efficiently and get your door lock working again in no time.

No one wants to deal with a broken door lock but if you know what steps to take when this happens, you can make sure that you and your family are safe and secure. Take the time to assess the situation, research your options, and decide on the best course of action for you when trying to fix a door lock. And if all else fails, don’t hesitate to call one of our professional locksmiths! 

In this blog, we’ll see what you can do to fix a door lock when it is not working anymore so you can restore the safety of your home.

Let’s get started!

 

Identifying The Problem Of Your Door Lock Not Working

Before trying to fix a door lock, the first step is to accurately identify what’s wrong with your door lock. This will help you determine the best course of action when you need to fix a door lock. Common issues might include a broken key, a jammed or stuck lock cylinder, or even worn-out tumblers.

It can also be helpful to take a look at the lock from the outside. If the keyhole is misaligned or there’s visible damage, this could indicate that something is wrong with the internal mechanism. In some cases, you may even be able to get an idea of what’s causing the problem just by looking at it.

Signs of a malfunctioning lock:

  • The key doesn’t fit in the keyhole correctly
  • The lock won’t turn when the key is inserted
  • The lock cylinder is stuck or jammed
  • Visible damage to the outside of the lock
  • Tumblers are worn out

 

How To Fix A Door Lock That Is Not Working

Now that you know what’s wrong, it’s time to fix a door lock. If you’re comfortable with DIY projects and want to save some money, this is a great option for minor repairs or replacements. However, if the problem is more complex, it’s best to contact a professional locksmith from Locksmith Tacoma to fix a door lock for you.

If you choose the DIY route, make sure to do your research first. There are plenty of resources available online that can help you understand how different types of locks work and how to fix a door lock properly. You can also purchase any necessary replacement parts from retailers like Home Depot or Lowe’s.

If you choose to call in a professional locksmith from Locksmith Tacoma to fix a door lock, we will be able to quickly diagnose the issue and recommend a solution. Our locksmiths cover everything from door lock installation to repairs and replacements all at competitive prices. 

So if you ever find yourself facing a door lock that won’t budge, don’t hesitate to call in the experts for help.

 

1. Lubricating The Lock

At times, door locks can get stuck or jammed due to a build-up of dirt and debris. This is especially true for older locks that haven’t been properly maintained over the years. In such cases, you may be able to fix a door lock cylinder with a good lubricant. You can buy lubrication products specifically designed for locks at your local hardware store.

Types of lubricants to use on door locks:

  • Graphite based lubricant
  • Silicone-based lubricants
  • WD-40

Make sure to follow the instructions carefully when applying the lubricant. Afterward, test out your lock to see if it’s working correctly again. If not, contact a locksmith from Locksmith Tacoma for further assistance.

How to apply the lubricant properly:

  1. Insert the nozzle of the lubricant into the keyhole
  2. Spray liberally, covering all parts of the lock cylinder
  3. Move the key back and forth several times to work in the lubricant further.

 

2. Adjusting The Strike Plate

The role of the strike plate in lock operation is often overlooked. The strike plate is the metal piece that lines up with the latch on the door frame. If it’s not properly installed or adjusted, your lock won’t be able to fully engage and unlock.

To fix a door lock with a misaligned strike plate, check that the strike plate is properly aligned with the latch first. If not, you’ll need to adjust it by loosening the screws, shifting the plate to the correct position, and then tightening the screws again.

Issues that can affect the strike plate’s operation:

  • The strike plate is not aligned correctly
  • The strike plate is improperly installed
  • The strike plate has been damaged or broken
  • The screws are too tight

How to adjust the strike plate for optimal performance:

  1. Loosen the screws holding the strike plate in place
  2. Align the strike plate with the latch on the door frame
  3. Tighten the screws back in place, but make sure not to over-tighten them.

If you’re still having trouble with your strike plate, it could be an indication of a bigger problem and you’ll need to call in a professional locksmith to take a look.

At Locksmith Tacoma, we have the knowledge and experience needed to quickly identify what’s causing your door lock issue and provide you with an effective solution. Whether it’s a minor repair or a full replacement, our locksmiths will make sure the job is done right.

 

3. Tightening Loose Screws

If your door lock has started to feel loose, it’s likely that some of the screws have come undone. This is an easy way to fix a door lock and can be done by simply tightening the screws with a screwdriver.

However, if you find there are still some parts of the lock feeling loose after you’ve tightened the screws, then it could be a sign of wear and tear. In such cases, it’s best to call in a professional locksmith from Locksmith Tacoma for assistance.

How to identify loose screws in a door lock:

  • Check the screws that secure the lock to the door
  • Test out the lock by wiggling it with your key
  • If any parts feel loose, that’s an indication of a loose screw

Tips for tightening loose screws in a door lock:

  1. Make sure you use the right size screwdriver for the screws
  2. Use an electric screwdriver if available to make it easier and faster
  3. Tighten each screw evenly, rather than just focusing on one at a time

Fixing a broken or non-working door lock can be a daunting task. But if you know what to look for and how to go about repairing it, you’ll have your door locked up and running in no time. If the issue is more complex or beyond what you’re capable of fixing yourself, calling a locksmith from Locksmith Tacoma should be your next step.

 

Door Lock Still Not Working? Get Professional Help From Locksmith Tacoma!

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above trying to fix a door lock and your door lock is still not working, you should call in a professional locksmith from Locksmith Tacoma. Our team of experienced technicians can quickly diagnose the issue and provide an efficient solution to get your door lock back up and running in no time.

We offer a range of services, from simple lock repairs to full-on lock replacements and we also provide 24/7 emergency locksmith services to ensure that you don’t have to wait long for your lock issue to be fixed.

At Locksmith Tacoma, we understand the importance of safety and security. That’s why we strive to always deliver high-quality workmanship and efficient solutions at an affordable price.

For all your door lock needs, contact Locksmith Tacoma today! Our friendly team of experts are always on hand to provide you with the best service possible!

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