How to Fix a Stuck House Door Lock
Over time door locks can get clogged with dirt and dust, increasing friction and allowing them to stick. Fixing a stuck lock is a moderately simple task. The tools required are basic ones most homeowners have on hand, and the job takes around 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Use a Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew the lockset from the door. (Most locksets are held in place with two long screws. Removing them requires many turns.) Set the screws aside and pull the lockset away from the door.
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2
Using a Q-tip and a bottle of rubbing alcohol, clean all of the exposed components of the lock. Continue, using clean Q-tips as necessary, until the Q-tips remain clean when you swab them on the lock. Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol into the key hole, and let it set for a minute. Slide the key in and out several times to loosen any gunk inside the mechanism.
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3
Spray the internal components of the lock with a thin coating of WD-40. This will help lubricate the parts and keep the lock functioning properly. Using the straw attachment, also spray a small amount of WD-40 inside the key hole.
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4
Reinstall the lockset on the door, and tighten the screws.
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Tips & Warnings
If the lockset still doesn't work, your key may be damaged or worn out. Replace the key.
Resources
- Photo Credit etrade.daegu.go.kr
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Comments
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We have a ERA front door lock, it's dead bolt lock not a five pin lock what you find on upvc doors, the lock is fitted to a wooden door. The handle seem to be jammed it acting like the dead look is on, but it's not. Is there an easy fix for this so I am able to open the front door?
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over55
Mar 01, 2011
I've read that WD40 in this situation will gum up the lock! I think that's happened to me. Instead, it's suggested you use a "brake cleaner" (whatever that is) to degum the WD40 and a graphite spray for the lock. I do know the door handle has gotten horribly worse since using WD40 and I will try the new method.
