If You Have One of These 5 Types of Broken Locks, here is What You Can Do About it

Having a door lock problem can be quite frustrating. Your lock often goes unnoticed until it breaks. A lock can get broken in a number of ways. Fortunately, there are ways to troubleshoot the problem and fix it. If the problem is unfixable, then you can always contact your local locksmith for help.

Following are 5 types of broken locks and ways to fix them:

1. The Lock Has Seized Up

Sometimes you can insert the key in the lock but cannot fully turn it. If that happens, then it means that your lock has seized up. This usually happens due to the grime or dirt being caught in the lock mechanism. You can fix this problem by cleaning the lock mechanism. To do it, insert a cotton swab in the lock and wobble it a bit to attract the dirt. After that, you need to lubricate the lock. Don’t use oil to lubricate, instead use a silicone or graphite spray. After applying the spray to the keyhole, insert the key and try to turn it. The lubricant will distribute evenly and the lock will start working again.

2. Doorknob/Key Turns but the Lock Bolt Doesn’t Work

In this situation, you can insert the key into the lock and turn it without any problems, however the lock simply does not work. To fix this issue, it is recommended that you remove the lock and check if there are any worn or missing parts. If the problem is not clear, then you should replace the entire lock.

3. Lock Malfunction Due to Weather Stripping

Sometimes the lock gets misaligned due to weather stripping. This prevents the lock from functioning properly. To solve this problem, remove the weather stripping and place it further back. This solution is quite easy as you won’t have to move the lock.

4. Frozen Lock

It is not uncommon for locks to get frozen in a very cold weather. A frozen lock often gets stuck and cannot be unlocked. The solution to get it working again is to thaw it out using a heated key. Warm the key by placing it in a bowl of hot water or on top a radiator, then dry the key and use gloves to insert it slowly into the lock.

5. Slow Door Lock

Slow locks are quite simple to fix. The issue mostly occurs due to the grime or dirt accumulating in the lock over time. You simply need to clean the lock to make it work again. Insert a cotton swab into the lock and wobble it to attract the grime or dirt. If the problem is not solved, then you will need to lubricate the lock. As already mentioned above, use a silicone or graphite spray to lubricate the lock. If you don’t have proper tools or simply aren’t familiar with locks, then it is recommended that you call a professional locksmith for assistance.

Dib’s Safe & Lock Service in San Bernardino is a locally-owned, family run business with over 90 years experience proudly offering lock, safe, and key, services to residential and business customers in San Bernardino County, Riverside, and the surrounding areas in Inland Empire. If you have questions changing door locks, or lock and key service of any type, give Dib’s a call today at (909) 885-0452.