When it comes to ensuring your property is secure it is essential to have locks that are in good working order so as to avoid having lock problems. If you find that you have a problem with your lock, then it should be a priority to get it replaced or repaired as soon as possible. Some of the problems that you may have with locks may be simple to resolve and you may even be able to do it yourself, however others can be a bit more complex to deal with and will require the skills and expertise of a professional locksmith.
Key Broken In Lock – Nobody wants to experience this however it is incredibly common! There is often no warning signs that this is going to happen but if it does, it is important that you don’t try to lock or unlock your door while the key is broken inside the lock as this will just cause more problems than it will solve. You may be able to attempt to remove the broken key yourself with a pair of needle nose pliers if you can see enough of it sticking out. However, if you are struggling to pull the key out or it is too far in to grab then you should never try and force it, instead call out your local locksmith and they will be able to extract the key for you without causing any damage.
Lock is Stiff and Difficult to Open – This is usually caused by a build up of dust and dirt in the locking mechanism causing it to be difficult to turn. This can be simply resolved by a graphite spray or silicone-based lubricant, once applied turn your key in the lock a few times and it should loosen up. It is important that you never use WD40 or any other oil-based products to try and lubricate your locks, this is because over time they will cause the locks to become clogged up causing even more problems.
Difficult to Unlock/Lock UPVC Door – If your door can be easily unlocked or locked while it is open but not when it is closed it is more than likely an alignment issue. It is very common for uPVC windows and doors to slip out of alignment, they are designed to be adjustable. If you do not know what you are doing then this can be quite a tricky fix, however a reliable local locksmith will soon be able to get your door back in good working order. If it turns out it is not an alignment problem then the issue is likely to be with the mechanism, this is quite a big job and will require new parts and a qualified locksmith to carry out the work.
Key Difficult To Insert – Well the first thing you need to do is double check your using the right key! This may seem silly however it happens a lot! The next thing you rule out is a badly cut key, so if it is a recently cut key you are using then first try one of the older keys to ensure its not just the new on that isn’t working as it should. If none of your keys are working in the door then its not a problem with the key, it’s the lock that isn’t working. You will need the help of a reputable local locksmith to come and diagnose and fix the problem.
Key Not Turning In Lock – There are a few reasons behind a key not turning in the lock. Regardless of what is causing it the one thing you should never do is try and force the key, this could result in further damage being caused to the lock or even the key breaking off inside the lock. You can try using the steps mentioned under the ‘Lock is Stiff and Difficult to Open’ heading however, if these don’t work then you will need a locksmith to come out and diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.
If you are having lock problems, then contact No Shut Sure Lock Bradford today – 07702 752458