Doorknobs and locks rely on a lot of internal components to function and operate properly. Before a door lock becomes unusable and leaves your home vulnerable, learn some early signs to look for. When you notice the signs early on, you may be able to repair the lock instead of replacing the whole mechanism.
The signs may happen on a daily basis or periodically depending on the issue. Once you know what to look for, you can explain the problem to a locksmith and get repairs done quickly.
1. Jiggling Handles
When you go to turn a door handle, the knob should be tight and smooth. If you notice a jiggle on the knob, the internal components may not be as strong as they used to. You can try tightening the handle itself. If the doorknob still jiggles, then you may need a replacement knob.
If you leave the knob loose, it may break off completely from the other components and just spin without actually turning the lock open. The internal pieces will not function correctly and you may struggle to open the door properly.
2. Key Jams
As you insert a key into a door lock, the key should click in and turn smoothly to unlock the door. If the key doesn't go all the way in or jams as you turn, then you may need lock repair services. The problem usually occurs inside the cylinder of the lock. The cylinder spring may have failed, chipped, or have a foreign object shoved inside.
If the jams continue, a key could snap and break off into the lock. A locksmith may rekey the lock to repair the lock mechanism and give you keys that work properly. You do not want to have a key jam and remain stuck in the lock. If your key does get stuck, you can call emergency locksmith services to help fix the lock so you don't have security issues.
3. Tight Turns
When you open doors in your home, the knob should turn smoothly. If the doorknob feels too tight, the knob can get stuck and not return to the standard position. The tight turn of the lock could represent a jam in the lock mechanism or a lack of proper oils to move the mechanical parts.
If a doorknob has been exposed to excessive humidity or moisture, parts of the inside may have rusted. You could have a locksmith clean out the rust, but ideally you want to replace the whole doorknob so you don't run into issues.
4. Stuck Latch Bolt
When you shut a door, the main element that keeps the door shut is a latch bolt. Sometimes you may notice a latch bolt may stay pushed into the door. The latch bolt should easily push in and out of place. If the latch bolt gets stuck, it may loosen up with some jiggling but could get stuck again in the future.
A locksmith can replace the latch bolt so it operates smoothly. If the latch bolt malfunctions, then a locked door would not stay secure. You also have the option to add a deadbolt to doors for more security.
5. Double Door Clicks
Another sign of a latch problem is when you hear a door click twice as you try to shut it. A door should not click multiple times when shutting. The sound of a double click means the door didn't properly catch the latch at first and has to lock again.
Sometimes you may experience a "ghost door" issue where the door clicks multiple times and then opens. The clicking is a clear sign the locks are not working properly.
Hire our locksmiths at
Roca Lock & Key
to help inspect and repair your locks. They can fully replace locks and give you extra security for your home.
