Solving Lockset Problems In The Atlanta Real Estate Market




Latch Sticks or Responds Slowly

Problem:

  • Gummed up or dirty lock mechanism

Remedy:

  • Blow a pinch of graphite into lock mechanism or keyway or inject light penetrating oil or silicone spray.

Key Doesn't Insert Smoothly

Problems:

  • Dirty keyway and tumbler area
  • Foreign object in keyway

Remedies:

  • Blow a pinch of graphite or spray silicone spray into keyway (do not use oil.)
  • Attempt to dislodge object with thin, stiff wire.

Lock is Frozen

Problem:

  • Accumulated moisture frozen solid

Remedy:

  • Chip ice from opening and carefully heat key with a match. Insert key in lock and work gently until ice melts.

Key is Broken in Lock

Problem:

  • Improperly inserted key, ill-fitting replacement key or wrong key forced into lock.

Remedy:

  • Remove broken key with thin, stiff hooked wire or with blade of a coping saw. If this doesn't work, remove lock cylinder and push key fragment out from other side with thin, stiff wire.

Latch Bolt Doesn't Engage or Disengage Easily

Problem:

  • Door loose on hinges or otherwise misaligned

Remedy:

  • Correct door problem and make any adjustments required to align latch bolt and strike plate.

Latch Bolt Doesn't Extend Fully into Strike Plate

Problems:

  • Shrunken wood in door
  • Shallow mortise or misaligned strike plate

Remedies:

  • Shim out hinges or strike plate or both.
  • Deepen mortise or reposition strike plate.

Key Won't Turn in Lock

Problems:

  • Cylinder turned in face plate
  • Poorly duplicated key
  • Damaged tumblers

Remedies:

  • Move cylinder to proper position.
  • Check key against original. Replace if necessary.
  • Replace cylinder or entire lockset.

Key Turns but Doesn't Operate Locking Mechanism

Problem:

  • Broken lock mechanism

Remedy

  • Repair or replace lockset.

You should read these tips to help you before and after your purchase of your Atlanta dream home, and if you are looking for you next Atlanta home give the SeeGeorgiaRealEstate Team a call and our Atlanta Realtors will help you find your next home. Weather you are searching for Atlanta real estate, Cumming Georgia real estate or Lake Lanier Real Estate or Alpharetta real estate, or any of the surrounding metro Atlanta areas, we are your answer to finding that perfect home or property.