Door locks are essential to the security of any home or business. However, like any mechanical device, they can malfunction over time, leaving you with a range of problems that can be frustrating and inconvenient. At Locksmith Dundee, we’ve seen all types of door lock problems and helped countless customers resolve them quickly and affordably. In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the most common door lock issues and how to address them.

1. Jammed Door Lock

One of the most common problems people face is a jammed door lock. This can occur for various reasons, including a misaligned door, a faulty mechanism, or a swollen door due to changes in humidity.

Causes of a Jammed Lock:

• Dirt or debris inside the lock can cause it to become stuck.
• Misaligned strike plate (the metal plate attached to the door frame where the latch fits) prevents the latch from engaging.
• Weather-related swelling of wooden doors can make the lock difficult to turn.
• Worn-out components, such as springs or pins inside the lock, can lead to mechanical failure.

Solutions:

• If dirt or debris is the issue, spraying a lock lubricant into the keyhole and gently inserting the key can clear the blockage.
• For misaligned doors, try adjusting the hinges or tightening the screws. If this doesn’t work, professional realignment might be necessary.
• In cases where internal components are worn, the lock will likely need to be repaired or replaced. Locksmith Dundee can handle all of these repairs quickly and efficiently.

2. Key Won’t Turn in Lock

Another common issue is when the key gets stuck or won’t turn in the lock. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re in a rush.

Causes:

• Worn-out key or lock pins: If the pins inside the lock are damaged or the key is worn, they may no longer match up, preventing the key from turning.
• Misaligned door: If the door is not properly aligned, the lock may be under pressure, making it difficult to turn the key.
• Cold weather: For external doors, the lock could freeze during cold weather, causing the key to stick.

Solutions:

• Try lubricating the lock. Insert the key and gently wiggle it back and forth to loosen any stuck components.
• If misalignment is the issue, adjusting the door’s position might solve the problem.
• In cold weather, applying a de-icing spray or warming the key slightly before inserting it can help free a frozen lock.

If the lock or key is damaged beyond simple fixes, a replacement might be needed. Our team at Locksmith Dundee can cut new keys or replace the lock itself.

3. Door Latch Doesn’t Catch Properly

When the latch doesn't catch the strike plate, the door won’t lock properly, which can be a major security concern.

Causes:

• Misaligned door frame or strike plate.
• Warped door: Weather changes can cause wooden doors to expand or contract, preventing proper alignment.
• Worn-out latch: Over time, latches can wear down, making it difficult to engage with the strike plate.

Solutions:

• Adjust the strike plate by loosening or tightening the screws so that the latch fits into it properly.
• If the door is swollen or misaligned, adjusting the hinges may help reposition the door.
• If the latch mechanism is worn out, it will likely need to be replaced. Locksmith Dundee can assess and replace faulty latches to restore security to your door.

4. Broken Key in Lock

Breaking a key inside the lock is a common issue, especially if the key is old or made of a softer material.