No one enjoys being locked outside of their own home. If the front door lock is jammed or stuck, hopefully you keep camping equipment in your car. But seriously, a jammed door lock can pose a real security threat for your home. You will want to figure out exactly how and why your front door lock is jammed. We have some tips for you below, so you won’t have to pack a portable home in your car all the time.
What to Do When Your Front Door Lock Is Jammed
1. You can un-jam the lock by removing it from the door and cleaning it. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the lock from the door. Most locks are held in place by two long screws. Set the screws aside so that you can reattach the lock later.
2. Now you can clean each piece of the lock. Use rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab q-tip to get all the dust and dirt particles off each piece.
3. Pour a little bit of rubbing alcohol into the keyhole and let it sit. With the rubbing alcohol in the keyhole, insert the key in and out a couple times to loosen any internal gunk.
4. Once as much dirt and dust is removed from the lock as possible, spray each part of the lock with a light coating of lubricant, such as WD-40. This will keep the parts in working order and help the lock function properly. Make sure lubricant is applied outside and inside the lock.
5. Once the lock is dry you can test it to see if it jams, before re-installing it in your door.
6. Re-install the lock into the door, using the screws you removed before. If this does not solve your problem you may have to replace the entire lock.
Find A Reputable Locksmith
If your front door lock is jammed, and cleaning out the individual pieces does not help, you will need to call in a locksmith. TalkLocal will connect you with up to three, high-quality locksmiths in your area. We’ll have you speaking to a professional in just minutes, so you won’t need to spend the night in your front yard!
