A lock cylinder is the part of a lock that contains the pins, springs, and keyhole. It is also known as the key-in-knob cylinder or the pin-tumbler cylinder. A lock cylinder can break due to various reasons, such as wear and tear, vandalism, forced entry, or faulty installation. When a lock cylinder breaks, it can prevent you from locking or unlocking your door, or even worse, leave you locked out or locked in.
In this article, we will explain what causes a lock cylinder to break and how to prevent it. We will also show you how to diagnose and repair a broken lock cylinder yourself, and when to call a professional locksmith for help. Whether you need a locksmith Granada Hills for your residential locksmith service or commercial locksmith service, we have you covered. Read on to learn more about how to fix a broken lock cylinder.
What Causes a Lock Cylinder to Break and How to Prevent It
A lock cylinder can break due to various factors, such as:
- Wear and tear: Over time, the pins and springs inside the lock cylinder can wear out or break, causing the lock to malfunction or jam. This can happen due to frequent use, exposure to weather, or poor maintenance.
- Vandalism: Someone may try to damage or tamper with your lock cylinder, either to gain access to your property or to cause trouble. They may use tools like screwdrivers, hammers, or drills to force or break the lock cylinder.
- Forced entry: If someone tries to break into your property by kicking, prying, or smashing your door, they may also damage the lock cylinder in the process. This can result in a broken or bent lock cylinder that cannot be operated with a key.
- Faulty installation: If the lock cylinder is not installed properly, it may not align with the door or the strike plate, causing friction or misalignment. This can make the lock hard to operate, or cause it to break over time.
To prevent your lock cylinder from breaking, you should:
- Maintain your lock regularly: You should lubricate your lock cylinder at least once a year with a graphite or silicone spray, and clean it with a soft cloth. This will help to keep the lock smooth and prevent rust and dirt from accumulating.
- Use the right key: You should always use the correct key for your lock, and avoid using keys that are worn, bent, or damaged. You should also avoid forcing the key into the lock or twisting it too hard, as this can damage the lock cylinder or the key.
- Protect your lock from vandalism: You should install a security system, such as a camera or an alarm, to deter potential intruders from tampering with your lock. You should also choose a lock cylinder that is resistant to picking, drilling, or bumping, such as a double-cylinder lock.
- Hire a professional locksmith for installation: You should always hire a qualified and experienced locksmith in Granada Hills to install your lock cylinder, as they will ensure that the lock is fitted correctly and securely. They will also advise you on the best type of lock cylinder for your door, such as a mortise lock cylinder or a door lock cylinder.
How to Diagnose and Repair a Broken Lock Cylinder Yourself
If you suspect that your lock cylinder is broken, you can try to diagnose and repair it yourself, before calling a professional locksmith. Here are some steps you can follow:
- Identify the type of lock cylinder you have: There are different types of lock cylinders, such as cylinder lock, mortise lock cylinder, and ignition lock cylinder. Each type of lock cylinder has a different mechanism and structure and may require different tools and methods to fix. You can find the type of lock cylinder you have by looking at the shape, size, and position of the keyhole, or by checking the manufacturer’s manual or website.
- Remove the lock cylinder from the door: To access the lock cylinder, you will need to remove it from the door. This may involve unscrewing the screws that hold the lock cylinder in place, or removing the knob or handle that covers the lock cylinder. You may need a screwdriver, a wrench, or a hex key for this step. Be careful not to damage the door or the lock cylinder while removing it.
- Inspect the lock cylinder for damage: Once you have removed the lock cylinder, you can inspect it for any signs of damage, such as broken or bent pins, springs, or keyholes. You can also try to insert the key into the lock cylinder and see if it turns smoothly or not. If the lock cylinder is damaged, you will need to replace it with a new one. You can buy a new lock cylinder from a hardware store or online, or you can order one from the original manufacturer. Make sure to buy the same type and size of lock cylinder as the one you have.
- Install the new lock cylinder on the door: To install the new lock cylinder, you will need to reverse the steps you took to remove the old one. You will need to align the new lock cylinder with the door and the strike plate, and secure it with the screws or the knob or handle. You may need to adjust the lock cylinder slightly to make sure it fits properly and operates smoothly. You can test the new lock cylinder by locking and unlocking the door with the key.
When to Call a Professional Locksmith for a Broken Lock Cylinder
While you may be able to fix a broken lock cylinder yourself, there are some situations where you should call a professional locksmith instead. For example, you should call a locksmith if:
- You are not confident or experienced in repairing locks: If you are not sure how to diagnose or fix a broken lock cylinder, or if you do not have the right tools or skills, you may end up causing more damage to the lock or the door. A professional locksmith will have the expertise and equipment to handle any type of lock cylinder problem, and they will do it quickly and efficiently.
- You need an emergency locksmith service: If you are locked out or locked in your property because of a broken lock cylinder, you may need an urgent solution. A professional locksmith will be able to respond to your call within minutes, and they will be able to unlock your door without damaging it. They will also be able to replace the broken lock cylinder with a new one on the spot, so you can secure your property again.
- You want to upgrade your lock security: If you have a broken lock cylinder, it may be a good opportunity to upgrade your lock security. A professional locksmith will be able to advise you on the best type of lock cylinder for your door, such as a cylinder lock for a storage unit, an ignition lock cylinder replacement, or a lock cylinder replacement. They will also be able to install the new lock cylinder for you and ensure that it meets the industry standards and regulations.
- You need a residential locksmith or a commercial locksmith service: If you have a broken lock cylinder on your home or business property, you may need a specialized locksmith service. A professional locksmith will be able to provide you with a residential locksmith service or a commercial locksmith service, depending on your needs. They will be able to handle any type of lock cylinder problem, such as a door cylinder lock, a cylinder door lock, or a mortise lock cylinder. They will also be able to offer you other locksmith services, such as rekeying, master keying, or key duplication.
Conclusion
A broken lock cylinder can cause a lot of inconvenience and frustration, as well as compromise your security. However, you can fix a broken lock cylinder yourself, or call a professional locksmith for help, depending on the situation. In this article, we have explained what causes a lock cylinder to break, how to prevent it, how to diagnose and repair it yourself, and when to call a locksmith. We hope you have found this article useful and informative.
If you need a reliable, affordable, and professional locksmith in Granada Hills, you can trust Prime Locksmith. We have been providing high-quality locksmith services in Granada Hills and we have the experience and skills to handle any type of lock cylinder problem. Whether you need a residential locksmith service, a commercial locksmith service, or an emergency locksmith service, we are here to help. Contact us today to get a quote or to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a lock cylinder?
A lock cylinder is the part of a lock that contains the pins, springs, and keyhole. It is also known as the key-in-knob cylinder or the pin-tumbler cylinder.
What are the different types of lock cylinders?
There are different types of lock cylinders, such as cylinder lock, door lock cylinder, mortise lock cylinder, and ignition lock cylinder. Each type of lock cylinder has a different mechanism and structure and may be used for different purposes.
How do I know if my lock cylinder is broken?
Some signs that your lock cylinder is broken are: the key does not turn smoothly or at all, the lock does not lock or unlock properly, the lock makes unusual noises, the lock is loose or wobbly, or the key gets stuck or breaks in the lock.
How do I fix a broken lock cylinder?
You can try to fix a broken lock cylinder yourself by following the steps in this article, or you can call a professional locksmith for help. A locksmith will be able to diagnose and repair any type of lock cylinder problem and replace the lock cylinder if needed.
How do I prevent my lock cylinder from breaking?
You can prevent your lock cylinder from breaking by maintaining it regularly, using the right key, protecting it from vandalism, and hiring a professional locksmith for installation.
