Do You Have Broken Door Locks? – A Complete Guide
Have you ever noticed that your key gets a little stiff in the lock or makes a strange grinding sound when you turn it? You’re not the only one. I see this a lot around Winchester, especially in older homes where doors and locks have been through decades of British weather. Locks just wear out over time, whether it’s the wet winters in Fulflood or the windy weather in Kings Worthy.
What Makes Door Locks Wear Out?
Locks are machines, and like any other moving part, they will wear out over time. Dirt, temperature changes, and even the way the door fits in its frame all have an effect. When it rains, a door may swell a little, which can make a lock work harder. Over time, that extra stress can cause problems.
A lot of my Winchester customers call when they can’t get the key out, but by then the mechanism is usually too worn out for a quick fix. That’s why it’s a good idea to call a professional locksmith early on.
Signs that your lock needs help
The key sticks or feels rough when you turn it.
The latch doesn’t work right when the lock turns.
The handle is loose or “floppy.”
You have to shake the key to make it work.
If any of these sound familiar, you should have your lock checked before it stops working completely, especially if it’s your front door. You don’t want to be stuck outside on a cold night with your shopping melting in the trunk.
Fix it or get a new one?
You don’t have to replace every lock that is worn out. A professional locksmith can often take apart the mechanism, clean it, and re-lubricate it, or put in a new cylinder while keeping your current handles and hardware. If the lock doesn’t meet modern security standards anymore, though, an upgrade might be the safer choice in the long run.
Taking Care of Your Locks
A quick spray of silicone- or graphite-based lubricant every few months can help keep things from wearing out and rusting. Don’t use oil-based sprays because they attract dirt and dust. If your door isn’t closing properly, changing the hinges or strike plate can make a big difference.
As a professional locksmith in Winchester and nearby areas like Twyford, Harestock, and Littleton, I’ve helped hundreds of homeowners keep their locks working longer or switch to newer, safer ones. Getting your door checked often can keep your home safe and your locks working like new, no matter what kind of door it is: UPVC, wood, or composite.
Don’t wait until your lock stops working completely if it’s feeling stiff or unreliable. Call your local Winchester locksmith, and I’ll make sure your doors are safe, work well, and last a long time.
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