3 Ways Your Lock Can be Broken

Your locks are constantly in use, continuously being moved around by your keys and deadbolts. While they are designed to be durable, your locks can break after years of wear and tear. Broken locks can stop your doors from locking, or result in you being locked out of your home. There are several potential environmental and physical factors that can contribute to your lock breaking, and you will need to determine what is causing the problem in order to find the correct solution.

The Door is Misaligned

If you have added weather stripping to prevent drafts, your door may have adjusted in the frame, losing its perfect alignment with the locking mechanism. In order to resolve this issue, the stripping will need to be removed and replaced. Move the stripping further back on the doorframe to fix the alignment problem on your door.

Frozen or Seizing Lock

Weather can affect how your lock performs. During the winter, the mechanism can freeze due to the extreme temperatures on the metal. Using a heated key can help thaw the lock and can be done easily by leaving the key on top of a radiator or submerged in hot water for several minutes. After drying the key, slowly insert it into the lock to warm the mechanism. Dust and grime can also build up inside of the lock, requiring cleaning to work properly. Use a damp Q-Tip to wipe the dirt out of the lock mechanism.

The Bolt Won’t Operate

If your lock has worn beyond operation, you might not be able to tell right away. You will still be able to insert your key into the lock and see the lock turn, but the bolt will not slide into place. If this begins to occur, you will need to replace the lock with the help of a professional locksmith.

Residential Locksmith in Bedford, Lexington & Concord, MA

If you are in need of a professional locksmith, contact Bedford Lock & Key today! We will be able to provide quotes and diagnosis for problems with your residential and commercial locks before replacing them, keeping your building safe. Bedford Lock & Key can be reached by calling 781-275-1597 or by filling out our online contact form.