“To repair or replace… that is the question.” While Shakespeare didn’t pen this epic statement, he likely would have if he was a modern-day homeowner. From coffee makers and dishwashers to chairs and children, if something in our house fails us, we usually replace it. (OK, maybe not that last one.)
But what about when it comes to our locks? If a residential lock fails or breaks, you might automatically assume that it needs to be replaced. But a good locksmith can actually determine whether your residential lock can be fixed or if you do actually need to have a new one installed.
Why Locks Fail
The big question is, why do residential locks fail in the first place? There are a variety of reasons for this, but the four most common (for residences at least) are:
- The deadbolt breaks, jams or is misaligned
- The lock cylinder fails
- The key breaks off in the lock
- The strikeplate needs to be adjusted
If your door locks have any of the above problems, repairing or replacing the lock is your next step.
When to Repair and When to Replace
The very best way to determine whether a lock needs to be repair or replaced is by calling a locksmith who specializes in lock repair and installation. But there are some situations when you know the lock doesn’t need to be replaced, such as a broken key in the lock that can be extracted. Other interior issues (such as the deadbolt or lock cylinder) require a closer look and a professional opinion. The good news is that a licensed locksmith technician can identify the issue right away, whether you bring the defective lock into a physical location or schedule someone to come out to you and do the work for you.
Finding the Right Residential Locksmith
The best locksmith companies won’t try to sell you on something you don’t need. That’s the promise at A-1 Locksmith. There’s no kind of lock we haven’t seen, worked on or fixed before. Our certified and licensed Dallas locksmiths install and repair hundreds of locks every week and can offer you multiple solutions at varying price points. If there’s any way we can simply fix your lock so you can save a buck and avoid the expenses of replacing a residential lock, we’ll do it. Whatever you do, don’t try to fix it yourself if you’re not experienced with locks — you may end up costing yourself more in the long run!
If you’re in need of residential lock services in Dallas-Fort Worth, give the A-1 Locksmith team a call today at 972-284-7500.