Household Repairs Latch or lock tongue stiff. Scrape off any paint that may be binding it. Squirt powdered graphite on the tongue and into keyhole. Work door knob back and forth. If this doesn't do the trick, remove lock by unscrewing set screw in one of the door knobs and pulling out both knobs. Then remove screws holding lock in edge of door and pull out lock assembly. Take to a locksmith for repair.

Latch or lock broken. If it is a modern lock or latch set, remove as above and take to a locksmith. Note, however, that so much inferior hardware is being used in postwar houses that it may be better in the long run to replace the unit entirely. If you suspect this to be the case, take the lock or latch set to a builder's hardware dealer and ask for his advice.

If lock or latch set is of old-fashioned tumbler type, remove it from door as above. Unscrew cover plate and examine mechanism. If parts have slipped out of place, reassemble them properly; squirt in powdered graphite, and replace lock in door. If parts are broken, take set to a locksmith. Repair of this type of lock is easy, but parts are not generally available in hardware stores.



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May 22, 2012