Having locks in good working order is vital when it comes to keeping your property safe and secure. If you encounter a problem with locks at your property, then it should be a top priority to get it repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Some problems with locks are a fairly easy fix and you should be able to do it yourself, whereas others will need the expertise of a fully trained locksmith to make sure the job is done correctly, and your home or business is once again secure.
Broken Key In Lock
This is a very frustrating situation to be in and quite often, it happens completely out of the blue and with no prior warning. If this happens to you then you should never try and lock or unlock the door with the broken key, this will push the key further into the mechanism making it harder to extract. If you can see enough of the broken key then you can try to remove it yourself with a pair of needle nose pliers, you should be able to grip the key and pull it straight out. If the key will not come out easily or you can’t see enough of it to get it out yourself then you should never try and force it as this will make matters worse and could cause damage to the lock, instead, you will need to call out a professional locksmith to come and extract the key for you as they will have the necessary skills and tools to extract the key without causing any damage to the lock.
Stiff/Difficult To Open Lock
Dirt and dust finds its way into a locking mechanism quite easily and the build up overtime can make it quite difficult to turn. A silicone lubricant or graphite spray can be applied to the lock then insert the key and turn a few times, and this should free up the lock. You should never use oil-based lubricants on a lock such as WD-40 they can cause the lock to clog and create furthermore serious problems. If lubrication doesn’t work, then you should call out a reliable local locksmith to diagnose and fix the problem.
Difficult to unlock/Lock UPVC Door
If when your door is open it can be easily locked/unlocked, then it is likely and alignment issue you have. UPVC doors are designed to be adjustable, and it is not uncommon for them to slip out of alignment. This can be a tricky fix if you don’t know what you’re doing, but a fully trained locksmith will be able to easily get it back in working order. If alignment is not the issue, then it is a much more complicated fix as it is likely to be a faulty locking mechanism, this will often require new parts and you will need a locksmith to carry out the work for you.
Difficult To Insert Key
The first thing you need to do is make sure that you are using the correct key. This is a very easy mistake to make and most of us will do this at least once I our lives! The next thing to rule out is a badly cut key, if you are using a recently cut key, try using one of the older keys to see if they work and its not just the new key that isn’t working. If none of the keys are working, then it is a problem with the lock not the keys. You will need to call out a reliable locksmith to come and diagnose the problem and complete the necessary repairs.
Key Won’t Turn In Lock
There can be a few things that will cause the key not to turn in the lock. The one thing you should never do is try and force the key, this could cause further damage to the lock and even break the key inside the lock. You can try steps similar to those mentioned in the ‘Stiff/Difficult To Open Lock’ heading, if these don’t work then it is likely a problem with the lock cylinder. Both of these issues will require the skills of a locksmith both to diagnose and fix the problem.
If your having problems with your locks in Stockport, then contact Goldie Locks Locksmiths today – 0161 401 0199
