What to do if your door lock is stuck?

It can happen to anyone: you come home after a long day and you can't enter your house because the door lock is stuck. A stuck door lock can be very frustrating, but it can also cause problems with security and your door fittings . Regardless of what type of door lock it is, there are several causes for the problem and fortunately also several solutions. In this article we discuss the steps you can take to open a stuck door lock.

Door lock stuck: the causes

A stuck door lock is a problem that occurs much more often than you think. The causes of a stuck door lock can vary greatly, from something minor that you can solve yourself to larger complications that require calling in an expert. Some common causes of a stuck door lock include:

Dirt accumulation in the lockwork

A stuck door lock is often caused by an accumulation of dirt and dust, which makes the lock stiff and can jam. The solution? Clean and lubricate regularly with a good lock lubricant.

Wear or defective parts

As locks age, parts of the lock can wear out. This is a common problem with locks that have been used for years. The result? The door lock is stuck and you can no longer enter your house. In certain cases you can still repair the lock, but with older locks it is usually better to buy a new lock.

Temperature fluctuations

Temperature fluctuations can play a major role in the functionality of your locks. Metals can expand in heat, while they can shrink in cold weather. This can cause the lock to turn more difficult or even get stuck in winter or on hot summer days. You can prevent this problem by cleaning the door lock and then lubricating it so that the mechanism continues to work smoothly even during extreme temperature fluctuations.

Poor installation or misuse

If the lock is not installed correctly or the lock is used incorrectly, this can also result in a stuck door lock. An incorrectly installed lock can cause the lock to not fit properly in the door frame. Turning the lock too hard or using the wrong keys can also damage the lock in the long term. You can seek the advice of an expert for expert advice. At Doorgeslag Expert you can get professional advice from experienced technicians.

Regular maintenance is essential

Regular maintenance of your door locks prevents the most common problems and reduces the chance of the door lock getting stuck. Maintaining your door locks does not have to be complicated and you can do it yourself. Small actions such as cleaning your lock can prevent bigger problems and expensive repairs. The necessities to get started with the maintenance yourself? For jobs such as cleaning or lubricating a door lock, you only need a good lock lubricant and possibly some tools for removing the lock.

At Doorbeslag Expert you will find everything you need to optimally maintain or replace your door locks. From mortise locks and security locks to door knobs , door handles , door handles and a wide range of interior door fittings and exterior door fittings - we are the specialist in everything in the field of door fittings. In addition to locks, we also have rosettes , hinges , window fittings and even sliding door fittings and furniture fittings . This way you can provide your entire home with top-quality fittings that suit your style and needs.

In our showroom you can view the full range of top brands such as Intersteel, Olivari, Formani, Hardbrass, Impresso, Hafi, Dieckmann and AXA with your own eyes and experience the quality for yourself. Because although you can find everything online these days, we understand that choosing the right door accessories is often better in real life. Feel free to drop by for advice and to find out which products you need to get started well prepared.

Opening a stuck door lock: The steps

With a few simple steps, you can often fix a stuck door lock yourself without calling in professional help. The basic steps to do this process safely without causing damage are:

Step 1: Check whether there is dirt or dust near the lock

Step 2: Clean the lock with a soft brush.

Step 3: Apply a lock lubricant to the keyhole and turn the key back and forth.

Step 4: Try to move the lock gently without forcing it.

Step 5: Doesn't help? Then use a spare or other key that fits the lock slightly better.

Do the above tips not work and is your lock still stuck? Then it may be time to repair or replace the lock.

If you are going to replace your door fittings, at Door Fittings Expert you can choose from numerous styles and materials that fit perfectly with different types of locks and interiors. Popular options are stainless steel door fittings, black door fittings and brass door fittings, but our range is virtually endless. We offer an extensive selection of door hardware options that look stylish and meet the highest environmental and quality standards.

Stubbornly stuck door locks

You can also often solve a stubbornly stuck door lock yourself with a little extra patience. For stubbornly stuck door locks, normal lubricant is usually not enough. In this case, penetrating oil may be able to help. This oil penetrates deep into the lock and loosens rusted parts. Apply a little bit of the oil and let it work for a while. Do not use too much, as this can attract dirt.

If the lock is still stuck, you can try disassembling the lock. Remove the lock with a screwdriver and inspect the assembly for dirt or wear. Clean the lock and check if there are any damaged parts that need to be replaced. Remember that window locks are used less often and therefore accumulate dirt more quickly, while door locks are used more intensively and wear out faster. If the stubbornly stuck door lock no longer works, it is better to install a new lock.

For more information and tips about maintaining or replacing locks and door fittings, take a look at our knowledge base for other interesting articles.

What if the key breaks off in the lock?

A broken key in a stuck door lock is extremely annoying and also prevents you from simply entering your house. It is a common problem that we often encounter at Doorbeslag Expert. Fortunately, there are a few methods you can try yourself to safely remove the broken part of the key from the lock without causing damage to the lock.

Do not force the lock. If the key is difficult to move, use tweezers or a thin piece of wire to pull the visible part of the key out of the lock. If this doesn't work, use a special key extraction tool. If that doesn't work or if you don't have this tool, call in an expert.

At Doorbeslag Expert you can find a wide range of locks and door fittings, including security locks and mortise locks, that can withstand daily use.

For more advice about lock repair or if you need help choosing a new lock, you can always contact us.

When to call in an expert?

Sometimes it is better to call in an expert for a stuck door lock. This way the problem is solved faster and more professionally. If a key breaks off in the lock, a professional will know better how to safely remove a stuck key without damaging the lock. This especially applies to more complex locks, such as security locks or modern mortise locks. At Doorbeslag Expert you are assured of the right help. Have you purchased new door accessories? We also offer installation services for our door hardware, so you don't have to worry about installation. For questions or to make an appointment immediately, please contact us.

Buy top quality door fittings

Are you dealing with a stuck door lock and do you want to upgrade your door fittings at the same time? At Doorbeslag Expert you will find an extensive range of top-quality door fittings, perfect for replacing a stuck door lock or decorating your interior. Can't choose which door fitting suits you best? We offer professional advice so you can make the right decision. Have you purchased new door fittings and do you want them to be professionally installed? Then make an appointment for our installation service . Our expert technicians are always ready to help you!

Visit our showroom for personal advice or simply order online in the webshop. Do you have questions about purchasing or replacing door fittings or about a stuck door lock? We are always ready to help you. Contact us today