Many times, people pay absolutely no attention to the shape that their locks and latches are in - that is, until a problem occurs. Instead of waiting for a lock or latch to get stuck, jammed or otherwise compromised, you should try to maintain it as best you can.
Prevention Is Key -
As with so many other components of your home and garden, prevention is the key when it comes to taking care of locks and latches. It's amazing how easy it is to maintain a lock; all you really need to do is keep it properly lubed up. To do that, simply make it a point to periodically go around the house squirting WD-40 into the locks and latches that you find. This simple measure will help you keep them working in top form.
How To Handle A Sticky Latch or Lock -
When a latch or lock becomes sticky, follow these steps to try and remedy the situation:
=> Spray WD-40 directly into the latch or lock, then take a key and turn it around inside it a few times. Try putting a layer of graphite on the key first, as from a pencil, as it may help.
=> Older locks may need to be disassembled. Loosen the screws then pull them off of the door. With deadbolts, unscrew the lock faceplates followed by the handles or knobs. In some cases, you may need an Allen, or hex, wrench.
=> On the inside edge of the door, remove the faceplate and associated latch screws for the latch mechanism.
=> Lubricate every single moving part from the latch and lock set. You can use WD-40, liquid graphite, silicone, motor oil or another kind of lubricant. Squirt some on the key, too, and insert it into the lock and wiggle it around.
=> Put your lock back on the door and you should be all set.
How To Handle A Faulty Latch --
If a latch in your home won't stay closed or close properly, there are a couple of options for remedying the situation:
=> If the latch is too large for the striker plate, or female portion, remove the plate. Hold it down with a clamp and make the hole larger. Ideally, make it larger on the parts where dents or other evidence of it being hit have occurred.
=> When the striker plate is misaligned, try moving the plate up or down so that the latch hits it in the right place. Extend the mortise, or recessed block, behind the striker plate. Lengthen the top or bottom of the mortise with a wood chisel. Use wood putty or glue to fill in the gap.
Author Resource:-
Sticky or broken locks and latches can pose many unpleasant problems for you, which is why it is important to have Brisbane building inspections professionals or a pest inspection Brisbane company such as Brisbane Building and Pest Inspection Services look your house over from time to time.
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