Four Types Of Residential Locks And How Locksmiths Repair Them

Residential locks play an important role in home security but they go wrong from time to time and sometimes need to be repaired or replaced. Given there are various types are available, each with its unique mechanisms, residential locksmiths need to have a variety of techniques and skills at their disposal to deal with issues that affect them. Read on to find out more about residential lock repair methods in use today.

1. Deadbolt Locks

To being with, deadbolt locks, which are often considered the most secure type of lock for residences, consist of a solid metal cylinder that can be driven through the door jamb into the frame. If a deadbolt fails, then a residential locksmith will typically dismantle it to check for broken parts. Commonly, the throw, the part of the cylinder that extends into the door frame, will be faulty. In most instances, a residential lock repair can be carried out by reassembling a deadbolt with a new throw, thereby restoring its functionality without the need for a complete replacement.

2. Knob Locks

Secondly, knob locks are commonly used for interior doors. They possess a locking mechanism that lies within the knob itself. Over time, the internal mechanism can wear down or seize up. In this case, a locksmith typically removes the knob and lubricates them. Some residential lock repairs of this type may also include replacing damaged elements before reassembly.

3. Mortise Locks

Common in older homes, mortise locks are robust locking mechanisms that integrate into a door handle. Mortise locks contain a complex system of levers and notches that can be challenging to navigate, necessitating the expertise of a professional locksmith. Often, a residential lock repair will be needed for a mortise lock because a key has snapped inside the mechanism. If so, a locksmith will take the lock apart to remove the key before issuing a newly cut replacement.

4. Padlocks

Finally, padlocks are frequently used in residential contexts, often to secure outbuildings, gates, or storage units, for example. These portable locks come in various sizes and levels of security, including both combination and keyed versions. A locksmith can assist when a residential lock repair is needed when a padlock either fails to open or lock properly. This will often mean picking the lock or bypassing its combination to gain access. Once the padlock has been removed, it is sometimes cheaper to replace it than to repair it, depending on the model and the level of security it provides.