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Malfunctioning door locks risk the safety and security of your home. Unfortunately, they involve many moving parts, which can make it difficult for someone who isn’t a trained locksmith to identify the problem. Even so, become familiar with some of the basic elements that make your locks work. While there are several different types of locks on the market, those found on most homes and smaller commercial structures typically contain the following components.

What Are the Different Parts of a Door Lock?

1. Cylinders

This piece contains the code that determines whether you’re using the correct key to lock or unlock a door. When you insert the key, spring-loaded pins release inside the cylinder and push out of the way so that the cylinder can rotate and unlock the door. If the cylinder gets damaged, begins sticking, or has a key broken off in it, you’ll need a locksmith to replace it.

2. Deadbolts & Latches 

locksmithThis is the portion of a door lock that comes out through the cylinder and holds the door in one place. Standard locks have either a spring latch or deadbolt. Spring latches are designed to automatically lock when a door closes, while deadbolts can only lock and unlock if you turn a knob inside or use a key outside. Deadbolts add an extra layer of protection, making it more difficult to pick the lock.

3. Strike Plates

The strike plate is the metal piece mounted to the door frame with a hole for the bolt to slide into once it’s extended from the cylinder. This helps to reinforce the locking mechanism and keep the door tightly secured in place. It also protects the doorjamb. These pieces come in an array of shapes and sizes; your locksmith knows which style you need to match your bolt.

 

If any parts of your door locks have become damaged or worn out, turn to Columbia Lock and Safe for high-quality repairs and new installations. For nearly 30 years, home and business owners throughout Columbia, MO, have relied on the company’s fast and affordable locksmith services to help maintain a secure property. Whatever your needs may be, they’re ready to respond any time of the day or night. Call (573) 443-5397 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online for more information on all that they offer.

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