There are many reasons why a lock may become stiff, including weather conditions, subsidence, and wear and tear. It is important to identify the cause of the stiffness so that the right action can be taken to resolve it.
How to identify the cause of a stiff lock.
The first thing to do when you notice your lock is stiffer than usual to operate is to consider environmental factors. In hot weather, doors and frames can swell, causing locks to misalign, while frost and ice can jam locks. Dust can also get into your locks and make the mechanism work less smoothly.
Consider whether the property may be suffering from subsidence. Large trees and nearby drains and building works can cause subsidence issues, through which the door becomes misaligned.
If environmental conditions and subsidence are both eliminated, the issue is likely to be wear and tear, either due to the age or the quality of the lock.
What to do if the lock is worn out.
If the locking mechanism is worn out, you should engage the services of a locksmith Bishop Auckland, such as lockwork24-7.co.uk/locksmith/, to visit your property and inspect the lock. They will confirm whether or not the lock is at fault or whether the door needs realigning and carry out whichever remedial works are necessary to restore the correct function of the lock.
This may mean replacing the lock. In that case, they will advise you of your options and the associated costs so that you can make an informed decision as to how to proceed.