Do I Need Lock Repair Or A Whole New Lock?

May 18, 2020

Do I Need Lock Repair, or a Whole New Lock?

As a homeowner, you should always be aware of the condition of your home’s locks. During daily use, be sure to look for signs of wear and tear, along with potential issues that could lead to malfunction or easy break-ins. As a general rule, it is also a good idea to have a professional check your locks once a year, making sure that everything is in working order and suggesting repairs and replacements when necessary.

There is a significant difference between repairing and replacing a door lock. While repairs typically involve fixing or replacing pins and springs within the lock cylinder, replacing a lock entirely will require the removal of the old hardware and installation of entirely new hardware.

What are the signs that a lock needs to be repaired?

As you enter and exit your home each day, pay attention to how your lock functions. There are some telltale signs that a lock should be repaired, including:

Difficulty turning the key – If turning your key in the lock requires more force than it used to, your lock could be getting old and might be in need of repair.
The key gets stuck frequently – Has your key ever become stuck in the lock? Even if you’re able to remove it successfully, this is a common sign that you need to repair the lock before the key gets stuck and you can’t remove it.
Frozen parts – Over time, it is possible for parts of the locking mechanism to become frozen and not move, even when the key is in the lock.

There are other signs that you need to have your locks repaired, such as if they’ve become damaged by inclement weather, if you’ve lost your key or had it stolen. In some cases, it is more cost-effective to have a professional rekey the lock (which entails replacing the pins and springs with new ones that work with a new key) instead of replacing your locks entirely.

What are the signs that a lock should be replaced?

While it is a good idea to replace your locks every few years to protect yourself, your family, and your belongings, there are certain circumstances in which it is essential to replace your locks right away. Signs that you need a new lock include:

You’ve been a victim of a break-in – This is one of the clearest signs that you need to install new locks on your doors. You may want to upgrade your lock system or simply replace the locks out of an abundance of caution.
Your locks have been damaged beyond repair – Sometimes it’s impossible or unwise to repair a lock. Burglars will often damage locks when breaking in, or sometimes a lock will be damaged on accident.
Your lock has become rusted and weathered – For locks that are exposed to the elements, rust and other damage is a notable concern. Rust inside a lock could prevent the teeth of the key from sliding under the tumblers and pushing them up. If your lock shows signs of rust or other weather damage, consider scheduling a replacement.
Your lock is old – Over time, particularly for locks that experience frequent use, your lock could become worn and less effective at letting you in and keeping others out. There also may be multiple sets of keys floating around (friends, neighbors, former roommates, and other residents), and you might wish to take control of your home back by replacing your locks entirely rather than having them rekeyed.