How to Troubleshoot a Deadbolt
A deadbolt is necessary for the security of your home. If it doesn't work, you can fix it in an afternoon, usually with nothing more than a screwdriver and a pencil. The deadbolt extends a heavy bolt into a receptacle in the doorjamb when you turn the key and removes it when you turn the key the other way. If it doesn't, there are two possible causes. Either the bolt is out of line with the receptacle in the doorjamb, or the components of the deadbolt need lubrication or are broken. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Pencil
- Screwdriver
- Lubricant
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Instructions
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Open the door and extend the bolt. If the bolt moves easily with the door open, you've found the problem. The door no longer fits correctly inside the doorjamb. With the deadbolt extended, gently close the door until the bolt touches the doorjamb. In this position, you'll be able to see how closely the bolt lines up with the receptacle in the doorjamb. Lightly mark the top and bottom of the deadbolt with the pencil. You may be able to fix it by adjusting the screws holding the receptacle in place.
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Check the doorjamb for proper fit if adjusting the receptacle didn't work. Doorjambs are often sent with very short screws. Over time, these screws can pull out slightly from the doorjamb if the door is very heavy. Take the door off and replace the small screws with some that are more robust.
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Remove the screws on either side of the doorknob that hold the assembly in place and remove the mechanism if the deadbolt still won't work. Look for broken parts. Use the lubricant on any surfaces that slide against other surfaces. Reassemble the doorknob and see it this has solved the problem.
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Replace the entire assembly if it still won't work. Take full measurements of the pre-drilled holes in the door. You'll need to know the distance from the edge of the door and the size of the hole for the doorknob. Take the doorknob with you when you go to the hardware store. It will help you choose the style of doorknob for the replacement.
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Check the fit of the deadbolt with the receptacle inside the doorjamb before you install the deadbolt. You may have to replace the faceplate. Most contractors will leave room in the cut-out for different sizes or placements of the deadbolt. When you install the deadbolt inside the door, don't tighten the bolts all the way. You may need to adjust the deadbolt to align it with the receptacle. Make sure you replace the doorknob assembly with the screw heads inside the house for security reasons.
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References
- Photo Credit antique doorknob image by John Keith from Fotolia.com
