Lock Change or Lock Repair: How to Decide

Locks wear out slowly, so it is easy to put up with a key that has to be jiggled. Here is how to decide what a tired lock actually needs.

Signs a lock needs attention

• The key is hard to insert or turn.
• The latch does not catch unless you pull the door.
• The deadbolt drags or needs the door pushed to lock.
• The handle or knob is loose or wobbles.
• There are scratches or damage around the cylinder after an attempted break-in.

Three options

Repair

Many problems come from alignment, not the lock itself. Adjusting the strike plate, tightening the hardware or replacing a worn part can bring a lock back. Lock repair starts at $19.

Rekey

If the lock works but keys are a concern, rekeying changes which key opens it.

Change

Replace the lock when it is damaged, worn out, or you want better security or a different style. A basic lock change starts at $25, plus the hardware.

Entry doors

Sometimes the lock is fine but the door or frame is not: a split frame or sagging hinges stop any lock working well. The locksmith can tell you whether a lock fix will hold or whether the door needs attention first.

All prices add the $29 service call fee; see the price list.