Has the lock on your door become hard to turn? This is fairly common and may happen gradually or suddenly out of nowhere. The good news is that it is a problem that a locksmith can fully resolve for you, ensuring that opening the door won't be as much of a pain for you anymore.
The first step is always identifying why your door is getting stuck. A proper diagnosis will help the locksmith to implement the appropriate fix. Here is a look at some of the common causes for a stiff door.
1. Poor Quality Lock
The problem may just be the lock itself. The internal components of a poor-quality lock are likely to misalign and break, resulting in difficulty turning the lock.
Your locksmith can suggest quality locks that will perform well and last a long time. It is indeed an investment worth making.
2. Worn Out Locks
Over time, even the best-quality locks may get worn out. When the internal components wear out, turning the lock may become a problem.
If this is the case, your locksmith will need to replace the locks. There is a wide range of locks to choose from, and you could always do with an upgrade.
3. A Build-up of Dust in the Lock
Lock maintenance is essential in preventing this build-up of dust. You are likely to face a problem with dust accumulation if there has been construction work going on nearby recently. WD-40 works great for cleaning out your locks. Your locksmith can advise you on the best maintenance practices for your locks going forward.
4. Extreme Weather Conditions
Cold weather may freeze your lock's pins and other internal components, which, in turn, makes turning the lock quite difficult. In this case, your locksmith will defrost and lubricate the lock.
During those hot summer days, your door may swell up, causing a problematic misalignment between the door and your lock. Adjusting the hinges on your door correctly to restore alignment with the lock resolves this problem.
5. Building Subsidence
Subsidence may result in your door shifting, which will cause misalignment with the lock. Your locksmith will realign the door accordingly to resolve the problem. That said, it may be a recurrent problem if you do not address the underlying subsidence problem.
If you notice that it takes you more time and effort to turn your door, you should call a locksmith. An expert locksmith has the skills to fix a stiff lock regardless of the cause.
For more information and tips, reach out to a local locksmith.
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