The locks on your property are very important for security, but over time they can become damaged in a number of ways because of use, wear and dirt. Fortunately many of the problems that these damages cause can be resolved fairly easily, allowing the locks to be repaired rather than replaced entirely. Repairs are generally more convenient because you won’t need to change the keys, and they are also cheaper than full lock replacements.
The locking issues you may encounter will differ depending on the type of door you have. Wooden doors and frames can warp over time, potentially stopping the locking points from engaging. On the other hand, UPVC will not warp, so you won’t need to worry about this if you have chosen this material. However, UPVC doors can drop, which can put the lock out of alignment. Luckily both issues tend to be a quick fix.
Over time the mechanism or cylinder in a lock can fail because of wear and tear. Fortunately it is possible to replace individual parts of the mechanism, including the lock case and the cylinder. This means a full replacement can often be avoided.
Whatever kind of door you have, you may experience difficulties when inserting keys and turning them in the lock. This can occur for a number of reasons including dirt and ice in the mechanism and misshapen keys. If you experience either problem, avoid forcing the key into the lock or using too much pressure to turn it, as you may snap the key, causing further damage. The best option is to get the lock attended to by a specialist.
If you do snap a key in a lock, call our Northampton locksmiths as quickly as possible. We may be able to remove the broken key with pliers without having to take the lock apart. When disassembly is the only option, our specialist team have the appropriate skills and experience to complete the work to the highest standards. We can provide repairs for all kinds of locks, offering great value for money and delivering quality workmanship every time.