For York, Harrogate, Easingwold, Wetherby, Malton ,
Tadcaster, Scarborough, Malton and across North Yorkshire
The answer is an empathic big fat NO!
Most, if not all locks are manufactured with their own oil or grease included. The addition of WD40 typically just clogs them up and does the opposite of what is intended. This makes them perform worse or in some instances stop them from working altogether.
Some locks do require regular lubricants and manufactures stipulate this when you buy the locks. So, either don’t put any lubricants in locks or follow the manufacturers guidelines for those locks that do require it.
Locksmiths will normally apply the correct lubricants when they service your locks.
Locks can get jammed for lots of reasons, let’s look at a couple of them.
A) You have a uPVC or composite door, and when you lift the handle up to engage the multi-point locks, they don’t seem to come out of the casing the whole way as they would normally do.
The likely problem is the lock gearbox has failed. In these circumstances you will need to get professional help by calling a qualified locksmith to either repair the gearbox or install a replacement.
B) You have a uPVC or composite door, and you have lifted the handle up to lock it but now the key in the cylinder (barrel) won’t turn all the way around to complete the locking process.
Once again this could be a gearbox failure or in some instances such as an ERA gearbox, typically a piece of the gearbox casing breaks off and works its way down the inside of the gearbox and prevents the cylinder from turning.
C) You have a mortice lock (typically in wooden doors) and the key is simply spinning around and around without locking or unlocking the door.
This happens where the snib on the lock bolt thrower has broken off. We appreciate this is a little technical, but that has what has happened.
The solution here is to replace the bolt thrower inside the lock or replace the lock, either way it’s a job from a professional locksmith.
In the case of the handles just being loose, the first step is to tighten up all the screws without causing the screw heads to be damaged.
If the handles are drooping or spinning around the likely problem is the door multi-point locking mechanism is not functioning properly.
Simply replacing the door handles will not solve the issue. The door mechanism will need repairing or the gearbox changing.
For emergency lockouts in York city center (YO1, YO10, YO23, YO24), we typically arrive within 30-45 minutes.
For surrounding areas like Acomb, Holgate, Tang Hall, and Clifton, expect 30-50 minutes.
Harrogate, Selby, and Malton typically take 45-75 minutes depending on traffic and current location.
We always aim to reach you as quickly as possible.
Yes and David answers all calls personally between thesetimes.
There’s no answering service, no delays, and no extra charges for evenings, weekends, or holidays.
When you call 07935 628828, you speak directly to David.
We serve York, Harrogate, Selby, Malton, Wetherby, Easingwold, and all surrounding villages.
This includes all York postcodes (YO1-YO32), Harrogate (HG1-HG5), Selby (YO8), and the wider North Yorkshire area.
If you’re unsure whether we cover your location, just call and ask.
In most cases, yes. David can provide a fixed price quote after understanding your specific situation over the phone.
You’ll know the exact cost before we travel to you.
Prices depend on the type of lock, door type, and work required, but we’re always transparent and competitive.
No surprises, no hidden fees.
Towergate Locksmiths is an independent, family-run business based in York.
When you call, you speak directly to David, the owner – not a call center, not a third party, not an answering service.
David personally handles every job or works alongside his trusted team. We’re a genuine local business serving our community.
If your UPVC door handle feels stiff, won’t lift properly, or the key won’t turn to lock, this usually indicates a failed multipoint locking mechanism or gearbox.
This is very common in UPVC and composite doors, especially those over 10 years old.
David can diagnose the issue and either repair the mechanism or replace it if needed.
Most UPVC door repairs are completed the same day.
Not all faulty locks need complete replacement.
During every call, David assesses whether repair or replacement offers better value and security. Common repairs include adjusting stiff locks, replacing worn components, realigning strike plates, and fixing loose handles.
You’ll always get honest advice – if replacement is more cost-effective or secure, we’ll explain why.
Our goal is the best solution for your situation, not the most expensive one.
We think we have some of the best locksmith prices in N. Yorkshire. Call for a no obligation quote and compare our cost to local and national competitors.
