Its History Of Lock Repair
4 Things You Can Try Before Calling a Locksmith
If your lock is not working properly, it may need to be fixed or replaced. There are some things you can do prior to calling a professional locksmith.
Dust and dirt can accumulate in a lock, making it difficult to turn. It is possible to make it easier to turn the lock by applying an lubricant made of graphite or silicone into the keyhole.
Locked Door Knob or Handle
Door knobs and handles could become loose in time, particularly with regular use. If this happens the knob or handle moves or pulls away from the door when people attempt to open it. This issue is usually resolved by tightening screws. This is a simple task that anyone with minimal tools or experience can complete.
The age and wear of a doorknob may cause it to loosen. Over time, the small screws that keep the mechanism in place can become looser when you open and close the door. This is why it's important to have your doors inspected and maintained on a regular basis to reduce the risk of loosening components.
Modern doors often have knobs that slide over a cylindrical spindle that is fixed to the door as part of the latch assembly. repairs of knobs have hidden screws hidden behind the faceplate that connect them to the spindle. You'll need to remove the ring from the knob in order to expose the screws. With a flathead, take the ring out with attention. Be careful not to damage the backing. Once the ring has been removed, you can fix the screws that are exposed using the regular screwdriver.
Some older doors have knobs that are secured to the spindle with a detent mechanism, which keeps the knob in place without the need for visible screws. If this is the case with your door, you'll need to find a small hole on the knob's faceplate and find a spring-activated pin that is inserted into the hole. The pin is attached to a lever located on the inside of your door. You'll need a screwdriver to depress the lever and expose the setscrew.
If your door is fitted with set screws instead of detent pins, you'll need an Allen key to loosen them, and then remove the knob from the spindle. Once the knob has been removed, you can loosen or tighten the set screw using the help of a screwdriver.
Dirty Keyway
The components that make up the lock require a small amount of oil to operate smoothly, however, the oil could dry up or be mixed with dirt. The lock mechanism and the key could become stuck together and make it difficult to take it off. You can loosen them by spraying lubricant onto the lock or by applying graphite. WD-40 is a good choice in the absence of any other lubricant to choose from, however, the lubricant's liquid nature can draw dirt and leave a an odor inside the lock so be prepared to routinely spray it again.
If the key is still stuck, try wriggling it into and out of the lock. This will loosen the lock enough for you to be able to pull the key free with a bit of effort. It could also aid in removing dirt from the lock. If you are unable to get a grip on the key using pliers with needle-noses, hold the end of the key and wiggle it. Don't apply too much pressure, since it could cause the key to break or bend.
If the lock is brand new but the key isn't able to fit in or come out easily it could have rough spots that must be sanded away. The key can be blackened by soot by holding it over a candle that is lit. Next, make use of a file to smooth out the sharp edges. If you don't have a hacksaw, a rotary device can be used. Contact a locksmith if your key is too stiff to remove or turn. A professional can make sure that all parts are properly aligned and lubricated, ready to accept the correct key.
Poorly Cut Key
If you visit a locksmith to get your key copied it is usually done fast and easily, however, there are a few ways that duplicates may be cut incorrectly and will not fit or function in the lock. This could be due to a range of things, including the fact that the original key is worn out or, even more importantly when it was used to open the lock. It could also be because the locksmith wasn't able to cut the key in a precise manner.
A quick solution for this issue is to jiggle the key inside the lock, physically shake it while trying to turn it. This will cause the pins of the key to rise above the cuts and allow the key to turn. You can also use graphite powder or spray to coat your key and insert it into the lock. This will act as a lubricant and aid in the unjamming of tumblers for locks.
It is possible that you took the wrong key to a locksmith and they copied it. This is a common issue and it's easy for people to confuse keys because they appear alike, so if you think this is the case, then place your key side by side with the one you had copied.
The best way to fix this is to return the key to the locksmith you have chosen, they will be able to check that they are cutting the correct blank and then they can cut you a new one that is compatible with. You can also create copies of keys using a small file and lighter (or lighter) and clear packing tape, and any other material that you can trace the key.
If your keys won't open your door then it is time to call the experts at Lincoln Lock & Safe. We can fix your key, or even replace the lock cylinder to ensure that you have full access to your home. We provide competitive rates and are accessible 24/7 so give us a call.