Locks are the unknown heroes of every home because they protect our belongings and provide us with tranquillity. However, a lock problem can soon become a significant issue when such commonly used and trusted tools stop working. A damaged lock situation is unwanted, especially when you are coming from work or going to work in the morning. Why do locks get damaged so quickly, and what can be done before the lock becomes the focus of a bad day?
The main goal of this blog is to address issues related to locks. We will describe some instances of why locks get stuck, and keys get broken. Because of this, you will now be able to identify these typical issues and when it is time to reach out to Towergate Locksmiths professionals.
Common Lock Problems and How to Solve Them
Jammed Locks:
What’s the Problem?
The worst part is that your lock will not open, whether it is a memory or a door. When you get to hold it in your hand, even if you twist or turn the lock, it will not turn. This is commonly noticed in outdated locks or possibly in situations where the lock systems undergo physically violent weather conditions at the locations where they are installed.
Why It Happens
Locks can jam for several reasons: Locks can jam for several reasons:
- Dirt and Debris: Dust, dirt, and other small particles can accumulate in the lock, making it hard for the key to turn.
- Corrosion: Every so often, it is not rare to find your lock covered with brownish-coloured substances which would naturally point to rust.
- Misalignment: On certain occasions, several parts of the lock might move, and as a result, the structure within the lock becomes distorted and gets stuck.
How to Fix It
First, it is recommended to slowly twist the key in the door lock and twist it back while applying slight force. This may, at times, help prise out whatever is blocking the jam. If that is not enough, a brief spray of graphite lubricant or a touch of the well-known WD-40 solution should suffice, but beware—in excess, it pulls in the dirt.
However, if the situation persists and the lock cannot be opened, here are some steps of lock repair in the UK.
Broken Keys:
What’s the Problem?
Picture this: Often, in a rush, you turn the key, insert it, twist it, and snap. While half of your key is in your hand, the other half is lodged inside the lock. This one of those – Now what? – situations that none of us wants to be in at any given time.
Why It Happens
Keys can break due to:
- Metal Fatigue: Nevertheless, the keys become weaker and are more likely to snap apart with time of use.
- Using the Wrong Key: If the wrong key is tried to be inserted into the lock, it can easily get damaged.
- Excessive Force: When a lock is jammed, keys shouldn’t be turned too hard, for it can cause the key to snap.
How to Fix It
If one of the key pieces protrudes, you might attempt to pry it with tweezers or needle-nose pliers. If it’s lodged much deeper into the lock, you will need the broken key extractor tool to remove it, or ideally, you should call an expert who can do it without scratching the lock.
Towergate Locksmiths provides a very efficient service for removing a broken key from a lock. If you require one, we can even provide another new key for your car there and then. So don’t let a broken key ruin your day—get it sorted as soon as possible!
Towergate Locksmiths offers a quick and efficient service for extracting broken keys and can cut a new one for you on the spot. Don’t let a broken key ruin your day—get it sorted ASAP!
Lock Cylinder Turning
What’s the Problem?
When you insert your key, the lock cylinder spins, but it doesn’t open. This is very worrying and indicates a problem.
Why It Happens
This problem usually occurs because:
- Loose Set Screws: The screw that held the cylinder in place could have loosened up and needed tightening.
- Worn-out Mechanism: It said that overusing the external push can damage the internal components and cause the cylinder to spin.
How to Fix It
If you possess some basic mechanical skills involving using screwdrivers, then you may consider tightening the screws on your own. However, this can be tricky, especially for keen novice assemblers who need help understanding how locks are assembled. It would be wiser to contact Towergate Locksmiths for a professional lock repair in the UK. They will soon have everything fixed up and running like a well-oiled machine.
Misaligned Locks
What’s the Problem?
When you attempt to lock your door, it feels like you’re pushing a square into a round hole. The problem is that the key can not be turned, or it looks as if it does not catch in the lock at all. This, as we said, is a defined case of misalignment.
Why It Happens
Misalignment can be caused by:
- Door Sagging: In due course, the doors bend slightly with the weight, which affects the position of the lock and strike plate.
- Poor Installation: This is even if the lock could never have been aligned well in the first instance if the installation needed to have been done better.
- Temperature Changes: Using wooden doors can be a problem because the materials move with temperature changes, which can cause misalignment of the lock.
How to Fix It
First, tighten your door hinge to check if they can help reposition the lock. Changing the strike plate should solve the problem; there is always a solution to every lock. But if all of the above reads like an episode of WolfWire, do not worry. Do not fret. Pick up the phone and call Towergate Locksmiths. This will have your lock working in the way it was intended for in no time.
Worn-Out Locks:
What’s the Problem?
If the lock you are using has been in service for many years, then you are right. It is old. Maybe the keys do not rotate as freely as before, or the lock feels ‘stiffer’ and has more catching than turning.
Why It Happens
Locks, like any other device, are mechanical; therefore, the mechanism’s breakage or weakening is expected after some time. Springs decay, and the metal parts get rusty over time; thus, the lock is less effective with time.
How to Fix It
Primarily, despite the wear and tear, it will require lock replacement soon if the lock has been used for some time. You can spray some lubricant into the lock, but this is often a short-term solution. It is advised that the lock be replaced to have the best long-term effect on the situation. Getting new locks can also improve your home’s security compared to modern buildings. If you are in doubt about the type of lock that can be installed, Towergate Locksmiths will be glad to advise and install new locks to make your household impenetrable.
Final Thoughts
Door and lock troubles can be frustrating, especially when unexpected. Jammed locks, broken keys, and misaligned doors can undermine your home’s security and peace of mind. While a DIYer can fix some faults, others require a professional locksmith to do the job right and safely.
Regular lock and door maintenance can prevent many of these issues. However, difficulties must be addressed immediately to avoid more troubles. If you’re, you need more clarification expert. Towergate Locksmiths provides reliable, efficient solutions to secure your property and keep your doors working.
Call us now at 07935 628828!
