There’s a million reasons that locks can get damaged, all due to different causes - as locks are more than the sum of their parts, rather, they are technically complex arrangements of separate components that all need to be properly operational in order for the entire lock to work. Here’s a guide from the lock repair experts here at Sonic Locksmith on how to repair some common causes of lock damage.

Mis-Latching Locks

If your door latch isn’t aligning properly, it’s an issue with the way the latch and the striker plate are positioned against each other. Try to analyze if the latch is not aligning into the striker plate, and if not, try to loosen the striker plate’s screws a bit to adjust it. Then tighten the screws again and see if they match up. If this doesn't work, move down, to the side, or up, and create a new screwhole, or even adjust the striker plate’s / frame’s hole to allow the latch to go fully inside it, and stay put. This is best done by a professional locksmith.  

Loose Doorknobs

Door Knob screws inside wooden doors can get loose due to daily use - but this can easily be fixed with a screwdriver. Just tighten any loose screws on the lock, strike plate, and/or door hinges - and do it fast before the holes become even wider.  

Door Knobs that are Difficult to Turn

If your door knob is sticking when being turned it’s likely due to a broken component inside the lock - which will likely require a lock replacement. It may be rust or dirt built up however - so try using a lock lubricant to determine if it is this much easier to fix issue.  

Deadbolts Stuck inside Strike Plates

If your deadbolt is stuck inside the strike plate, shave down the strike plate’s side to allow it to move freely. You may need to unscrew the strike plate and readjust it - just make sure to be careful, as you may need to make new holes on the doorframe to allow the deadbolt to be fully inserted. We believe that a professional locksmith technician is better suited to carry out this operation.