It is never a good sign when your key keeps turning in your door lock. In the worst case you are locked out but hopefully you can still gain access to the property through another entrance. Fortunately, the solution to a spinning key is fairly straightforward but it does require the assistance of a locksmith. The danger in trying to fix this problem on your own is that you run the risk of damaging the lock further. If this happens, you will still have to call a locksmith to assist you to repair the damaged lock or install a new one but it will end up costing much more than you would have if you had simply called right away. In an effort to help you avoid the inconvenience and cost of a key that keeps turning in your door lock, First Lock & Security Technologies outlines some of the warning signs of door lock failure.
Loose Door Handle
If your door lock seems loose, is spinning or is wobbling, it can cause your door lock to spin around without opening the door, indicating that there may be a problem with your door lock. Unfortunately, many people overlook this sign until they end up with a key that keeps turning in their door lock. S portion of the locks internal mechanism has likely been dislodged. If your handle is loose, have it professionally repaired as soon as possible. A professional lock repair team will perform modifications or make other needed repairs to make the door handle firmly set once again.
Lock Cylinder Gradually Moves
Similar to a loose door handle, this is a tell-tale sign that something is amiss within the door lock mechanism. If this is caught early, the problem can be rectified, but if it is allowed to continue it can escalate into causing further damage. For example, if you are still able to lock your door, but you notice the cylinder or entire lockset is moving, there is a possibility that the set screws are loose. If they are not tightened, it will cause further issues within the lock.
Key Gets Harder to Turn in Lock
Another sign of door lock failure is when the key becomes increasingly hard to turn in the lock. This is often a sign that the internal parts involved with engaging the lock bolt or the actuator are not functioning properly. Attempting to force your lock to work in this situation can potentially result in you having a broken key, broken lock or both.
Internal Locking Mechanism is Broken or Failing
There are many different types of door locks, however there are some general commonalities between them. When the bolt/latch is engaged by the lock, it is connected inside the door, which ultimately renders the door either locked or unlocked. If your key keeps turning in the door lock, it means that the lock body and the bolt are not interacting as intended.
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Unfortunately, identifying the problem is only one half of the solution. The next step is to contact a licensed local locksmith to help you handle this issue. If you are unsure about your abilities, do not tamper with your door locks. Call First Lock & Security Technologies, or come by our shop in Los Altos, so that we can properly assist you. Neglecting to do so will potentially leave you with a broken key and/or damaged lock!
