What goes wrong
Locks fail for a few common reasons: a broken key snapped in a cylinder, a deadbolt with a worn cam, a latch that has sharpened edges and binds, or a lock body that has been forced and no longer aligns with the strike. On emergency calls in Atglen we see these problems on entry doors, back doors, and garage service doors. We troubleshoot by examining the cylinder, tailpiece, cam, and strike to find what has failed. When parts are salvageable we cut out the problem piece; when the mechanism is ruined we replace it with the correct type of lock.
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What the job involves
When we work on a damaged cylinder or a stuck deadbolt we take the lock apart on site, remove broken key fragments with picks or extractors, and test the bolt throw and strike alignment. For frames that are bent or rotted we fit longer screws into the jamb or install a reinforced strike to restore holding power. If the knob or lever spindle is sheared we match the replacement to the existing bore and latch backset. We carry common cylinders, deadbolts, electronic deadbolts, and tubular latch sets and install hardware that mates physically with the door and frame.
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Good to know
While you wait for us to drive out from Havertown, clear a work area around the door, move furniture or items away, and make sure we have unimpeded access to the jamb and both sides of the door. If you have keys for the lock, bring them out so we can test them and identify wear patterns or burrs. If the door has visible damage from forced entry take a couple of photos for your records. If you are locked out of a vehicle or a commercial unit tell us what kind of lock it has and whether it is a single cylinder, double cylinder, or has an electronic keypad.
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Worth knowing
Have ready any proof that you have permission to authorize entry, such as a lease, utility bill, or paperwork with your name and address. If the lock is part of a multiunit building tell us about master keying or restricted cores so we can match the correct cylinder. For electronic locks, if you can provide model numbers or the keypad manufacturer that helps; for mechanical work keep the original strike and trim nearby if you want them refitted. We also respond to calls that come from nearby towns like Parkesburg when requested.
