A lock is a simple mechanism that consists of a set of metal rod plates and a number of springs. Bending or disengagement of each of these elements will cause the lock to malfunction, which can be easily corrected on our own. Our article will tell you how to repair a lock with your own hands.
General structure of a mechanical door lock
Appearance door locks may vary depending on the requirements for their size and design, but at the same time it internal organization remains virtually unchanged.
Regardless of the manufacturer, the lock will always be equipped with a deadbolt (bolt) with a mechanism for its movement and a key recognition mechanism; depending on its shape, it can be called a secret, a cylinder or a cylinder. Without these components, the castle will cease to perform its functions. For ease of use, a handle and a latch bolt (tongue) can be built into the mechanism, allowing you to close or open the door and lock it in the closed state.
Why do locks for interior doors break?
Manufacturers may use mild steel, copper or aluminum alloys, which are not able to withstand increased loads for a long time. That is why the main reasons for the failure of the lock mechanism are:
- Problems with the door leaf or door.
- The lock mechanism is dusty or rusty.
- Wear or damage to the internal elements of the lock.
Let's consider the impact of each of the negative factors on door lock.
Problems with the door leaf or trap
Both interior and exterior doors, regardless of what material they are made of, can become deformed over time. Any change in the door geometry causes a displacement of the lock bolts in relation to the striker plate.
The mechanism for moving the crossbars is not designed to overcome the friction that occurs when the bolt and the bar come into contact. The additional load that arises in this case is distributed to all elements of the lock and causes the breakdown of the weakest link in the system - the secret.
Somewhat less often, for this reason, the crossbars and the mechanism for their movement break.
The lock mechanism is dusty or rusty
Operation of a mechanical lock in very dusty rooms and failure to carry out timely maintenance leads to an increase in internal resistance between the moving parts of the mechanism. Ignoring this problem for a long time may cause the lock to jam or break. This factor is especially dangerous for models that have additional locking rods installed.
No less problems for the operation of the lock are caused by rust that appears on the internal elements of the lock. Only regular cleaning and lubrication of the mechanism can significantly extend the life of the lock and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Wear or damage to the internal elements of the lock
Even with timely maintenance, the internal elements of the lock experience significant stress and may break. After replacing a failed part, there is a high probability that the lock will serve for many more years.
Mortise lock for door. Repair and maintenance
Let us consider in detail the most common design among all types of locks, used in both wooden and metal doors.
The mortise lock is highly reliable due to the simplicity of the mechanism. The most complex component in its design is cylinder mechanism, which is easy to change. It is replaced when the key becomes jammed, the mechanism is periodically blocked, keys are lost, etc.
Checking the functionality of any locks and repairing them:
- Open the door.
- Check the operation of the lock for any play or jamming.
- Compare the operation of the lock when open and closed door, if the mechanism works worse when closed (sticks, does not close, moves more tightly), check the locking bars for friction with the bolt, change the geometry of the locking bars to eliminate friction.
- Remove the lock.
- Open the protective cover of the mechanism.
- Take a photo of the mechanism located inside.
- Clean the mechanism from dust, rust, and old grease.
- If necessary, wash the lock with kerosene.
- Check the integrity of the springs and the condition of the crossbar movement mechanism.
- Check the operation of the secret without a lock, replace it if necessary.
- Assemble the lock according to the photo.
- Install the lock on seat.
- On open door check the operation of the lock mechanism.
- Check the operation of the lock mechanism with the door closed.
In order to avoid the lock breaking down at the most unexpected moment, it is necessary to carry out maintenance at the first sign of a malfunction. In its process, it is possible to identify problem nodes and eliminate the reason why the lock has become “worse to work.” In addition, regular maintenance carried out on a home door every few years can significantly extend the life of the lock.
During the inspection, special attention must be paid to the condition of the mechanism springs, if necessary, return them to engagement with the seats, and in case of breakdown, replace them. Check each lock mechanism individually, identify places of increased friction and units that do not perform their functions, restore the operation of the mechanism (put rods in place, replace plastic bushings, straighten bent ones, replace worn ones).
To perform maintenance or repair on a mortise lock, you must remove the mechanism from the door.
1. Using a hexagon, unscrew the screw that secures the outer door handle to the square.
2. Unscrew the bolt securing the cylinder mechanism
3. Pull the secret onto yourself. At the moment when resistance appears, turn the key in the keyhole so that the secret tongue disengages from the body and the lock mechanism.
4. Unscrew and remove the bolts securing the lock handles.
5. Remove the handles themselves and the square.
6. Unscrew the screws securing the mortise lock body and remove it.
7. Clean the lock seat from dust and shavings.
8. Check the integrity of the handle mechanism, clean it from dust and lubricate it. Special attention In this case, you need to pay attention to the return mechanism springs and limiters.
9. Clean off dirt and check the operation of the lock cylinder (secret).
10. If the key in it is broken, remove its fragments using tweezers.
11. Lubricate the slave cylinder.
12. Unscrew the fixings protective housing lock bolts and remove the top cover.
13. Clear inner part lock from dust and rust.
14. Check the condition of the springs and steel rods.
15. Lubricate the moving parts.
16. Assemble the mechanism for moving the bolt and latch, check its operation.
17. Install the lock onto the seat in the reverse order indicated.
18. Check the operation of the lock with the door open and then closed.
19. If necessary, adjust the gaps in the striker plate.
Handle-lock for interior doors. Repair and maintenance
Due to the optimal ratio of cost and reliability, the handle-lock (handle-knob) ranks first in popularity among locks for interior doors. Unique, but simple design The handle-lock is easily repaired. Most often, the return springs and latch mechanism break down; repair of the lock handle in most cases is limited to returning disengaged springs and rods to their seat.
To carry out repairs or Maintenance You will need to remove the knobs (covers on the handles), for which:
1. Find a special hole on the body of the decorative trim.
2. By turning the handle, we move the spring hook directly under the slot.
3. Using a special key or a clock screwdriver, press spring retainer and at the same time pull the handle off the mechanism. From the side of the latch, remove the decorative trim by simply prying it off with a screwdriver. Unscrew the screws connecting the inner and outer parts of the lock
4. We take out the inner and then the outer part of the lock.
5. Unscrew the two screws that hold the latch in place and remove it.
After dismantling all parts of the lock is completed, we check the integrity of the mechanical elements, clean the mechanism from dust and dirt, and lubricate the working parts of the mechanism.
Particular attention must be paid to cleaning and lubricating the latch mechanism.
Integrity of the return and locking mechanism of the handle.
After checking and repairing, the handle is installed in its seat. The lock's operation is being checked.
Regular maintenance of the door lock, its lubrication and periodic performance checks will be the best preventive measure that will allow you to timely prevent failure of the locking mechanism, which will save you time and money and will allow you to avoid emergency opening of the door by breaking the lock.
The quality of the lock largely determines the degree of protection of any premises, be it a commercial office or a shopping center or a residential apartment and private cottage. The entire range of such mechanisms presented on the modern market can be divided into 2 main groups according to the principle of installation - these are mortise and overhead door locks, the price of which varies over a fairly wide range.
Both options are equally in demand. Therefore, before giving preference to one design or another, be sure to familiarize yourself with all the advantages and disadvantages of each solution, functionality, as well as the installation diagram for a rim and mortise lock. You will learn about all the intricacies of purchasing and installing locks of the first type from this article.
A door lock is the simplest design. During its installation, there is no need to cut out part of the door leaf, which is one of the undeniable advantages of this solution. It is installed directly on top of the sash - the main module is on the leaf, the counterpart is on the frame.
Important! It can be opened from the outside with a key, and from the inside using a special mechanism. Additionally, the kit can include a variety of latches and wedge latches that block access to the room, thereby increasing the level of security.
Padlock device
The standard equipment of such a lock consists of:
Video about the operation of a rim lock
You can easily understand in more detail how a rim lock works and the principle of its design after watching the video review below.
How to choose the right rim lock?
Before choosing the right mechanism for your space, review possible options models of rim lock in the photo. You can easily find them in catalogs of specialized stores or on the Internet. 
When purchasing a door lock, consider the following criteria:
Installing a rim lock
The installation scheme for a rim lock is much simpler than installing a mortise lock. The principle of operation in this case is similar, but it does not require unnecessary manipulations aimed at accurately cutting out part of the door for embedding the mechanism. 
Installation Tools
Before starting work, be sure to prepare everything necessary tools so that the process is not slowed down due to your forgetfulness. In this case you will need:
Installation of a rim lock
To install the rim lock as quickly and correctly as possible, first carefully study the diagram proposed by the manufacturer of the model you have chosen. 
Then follow the below step by step instructions with basic recommendations:
Conclusion
As you have already seen, the principle of installing a rim lock is quite simple. If you strictly adhere to the stated rules, you can complete it without much effort, spending very little time. Be careful and careful when purchasing and installing a door lock, and it will serve you well for decades!
Door lock components
Security is a fundamental human need, which translates into strong doors and secure locks. Today, requirements for the safety of premises place high demands on the production of locking mechanisms for entrance doors.
Therefore, the design of a door lock is constantly undergoing evolutionary development, because it is this device that is responsible for the emergence and fencing of each person’s personal property. But how to choose a truly high-quality and reliable lock? What types exist and what are their main differences? Let's consider different designs devices with handles and latches.
Nowadays, if necessary, it is not as easy to choose a door lock as it might seem, since there are a huge number of different models on the shelves in stores. Over the past 10 years, the range of such products has expanded significantly, but the basis has not changed; according to the design of the door lock, the following types are distinguished:
- mortise;
- invoices;
- hanging or barn;
- level;
- coded.
The greatest demand is for overhead and mortise locks, and all other devices are non-standard solutions; their market share is no more than 7%. Thus, we will consider the structure of the door mechanism of two main categories.
Design of the attachment
The simplest locking door designs that do not harm the door during assembly and installation are considered to be overhead locks with a latch. Such mechanisms are installed with inside doors directly on the canvas, so it plays a role in the level of protection important role and the massiveness of the door.
The rim lock is designed so that it can be opened with a key or from the inside using a special rotary element. To increase the reliability of the mechanism, such additional elements as a safety gate or wedge latch. Like any similar lock, overhead locking mechanisms with a latch are characterized by the following indicators:
- secrecy;
- reliability;
- resistance to burglary.
These are the main criteria that you should focus on when choosing and purchasing a good lock. interior door or input. To get acquainted with the locking escutcheon mechanism in more detail, let’s consider the design of the lock, which contains the following elements:
- housing with a locking mechanism (latch);
- drive lever;
- face plate;
- reply part.
The structure of mortise and overhead locking devices differs little from each other, but there are still differences in the types of security mechanism, design and the presence of a latch or handle. Therefore, for comparison, we will consider another type of design.
Structural features of the mortise device
Another popular model is mortise locks with handle. These are practical, ergonomic and easy-to-use devices. There are lever and cylinder types of such mechanisms.
Door lock design
This type of lock is also good because its design is inconspicuous, so it won’t damage it in any way. appearance doors, but at the same time will be able to protect the room from unwanted entry. When choosing such a device with a handle, you should pay attention to the following parameters:
- secrecy;
- design;
- material of manufacture;
- manufacturer.
The entire structure can fit inside the door leaf, leaving only handles and keyholes on the surface on both sides, which complicates the task of intruders. The mortise device has the following components (see photo):
- face plate;
- latch mechanism bolt;
- frame;
- drive lever;
- main bolt
This device is well suited for almost any door. The body of a mortise lock with a locking mechanism is installed in a niche of the door leaf, and a side bar with a handle is attached to both sides.
The door is fixed in the closed position by means of bolts pulled out from the body - latches. Moreover, the greater the number of last elements, the more reliable protection premises. A mortise lock is relatively easy to install - you can install it yourself, without the involvement of specialists.
There are dwellings on our planet whose inhabitants do not lock the door. We do not belong to this category. For us, a door lock is a reliable protector designed to protect the house from unwanted intrusions. There are door locks different types, let's try to figure out how they differ and how they work.
Based on the type of installation, door locks are divided into three types:
- Invoices. The simplest option. It is easy to change the padlock yourself, because it is attached to the top of the door leaf. The kit also includes metal nozzle on the jamb, but usually the handle is not. Overhead locks cannot be called a reliable option.
- Mortise locks. They are placed inside the door leaf, both entrance and interior. Most modern castles can now be classified as this type.
- Built-in. Option for metal door. The lock acts as a direct part of the door leaf, that is, the door is sold with a closing mechanism.
Whatever the door lock, its structure includes the following parts:
- pen;
- halyard tongue;
- retractable crossbars;
- overlay panel;
- a secret mechanism, which is also commonly called the larva.
We emphasize that the reliability of the lock will depend on the cylinder. The more combinations of the secret mechanism available, the more difficult it will be to pick the lock. Some modern models Locks cannot be opened with a master key at all; their level of secrecy implies opening exclusively with a native key.
So, the larva is the mechanism that blocks the structure in doorway, preventing unwanted guests from entering the premises. Based on the type of secret mechanism, it is customary to distinguish the following types of locks:
- Cylinder locks. Familiar to everyone and enough simple products. The secret part is located in the main part, which is shaped like a cylinder, which gives this type of lock its name. In this case, there are pins inside the cylinder; they block the mechanism when the lock is closed. The key must have notches that fit the pins and help move them out of place. Such castles are also often called English.
- Disk. Experts consider such locks unreliable. Inside the lock there are disks that are moved with a special key, which looks like a rod cut in half with notches. The key moves the discs, they rotate, a tunnel is formed and the door opens. Such disk locks used to be often installed on iron doors entrances, but now this option is becoming a thing of the past.
- Cross locks. As the name implies, the larva is cross-shaped, and the same key is attached to it. It is noteworthy that the degree of secrecy of cross locks is quite high - no less than 20 thousand combinations. However, such a device can be hacked even with an ordinary Phillips screwdriver, and the secret mechanism itself is attached to the lock body with only two screws and is not protected by an armored pad.
- Deadbolt locks. From German the word “crossbar” is translated as “bolt or bolt.” This is the operating principle of this type of device - the key pushes or pushes a special metal bolt inside the lock, that is, the deadbolt. WITH reverse side deadbolt locks are equipped with a latch.
- Level locks. Experts call them the most reliable option. Inside the lock mechanism there are plates - levers. The special key is shaped like a soldier or a butterfly. When you turn the key, the levers are raised to the level specified by the coding. The security of the lock can exceed 5 million combinations. The disadvantage can be called enough big hole for a key, but the work of a burglar can be hampered by a protective lever and false grooves.
- Code locks. In this case, instead of a key, a secret set of numbers is used, the entry of which opens the device.
All types of locks listed by us are of the mechanical type. However, door locks can also be electromechanical. In this case, the bolt will operate from electric motor. Such locks are not widely used in everyday life; they are more often used in massive bank safes, where it is too difficult to close the bolt manually.
In electromagnetic locks, a magnet acts as a locking mechanism. To the most modern options applies electronic lock, which has the following features:
- there is a built-in controller;
- you can use internal or street version;
- opens with a key fob or contactless card;
- protected from vandals.
In addition, electronic locks can simply be connected to an alarm system or complex “ smart House" It is impossible to open the electronic lock using conventional methods; there is no keyhole. You will have to use methods such as signal interception or code selection. Well, or break down the entire front door, saw through the metal rods locking the entrance, that is, use harsh force methods.
Main disadvantage electronic lock— it is strictly tied to the energy supply. Simply - there is no light - the door does not lock. You have to either provide a backup power source or additionally install a mechanical lock in case of a power outage.
As you can see, the choice of modern locks is very large, and the price, of course, will depend on the degree of reliability, the metal used, and the manufacturer. Let us clarify that our article concerned locks for entrance doors; interior doors have their own characteristics; far fewer requirements are put forward for them in terms of reliability.
Locking locks appeared along with the construction of housing and the emergence of property stratification in society. As soon as private property arose, there was a need to protect it. Of course, there are still small settlements of people where there is no talk of locking the doors, but this is rather the exception. Over a long period of time blocking door frame the mechanisms were modified, manufacturers tried to make the lock more reliable, increasing its blocking properties. But the function of the locking device did not change - locking doors and protecting property.
The structure of the lock mechanism
If you look at various photos door structures, you can see that locks are installed not only on entrance doors, but also interior designs sometimes they lock it too.
Any locking device consists of a locking mechanism, a special metal box for locking, a latch and a key item for moving the bolt.
Depending on the design of the locking device, its functionality is determined. According to the method of attachment to door design blocking mechanisms can be:
- invoices attached to the inside of the door;
- mortise, installed inside the door slab.
The most common door lock device is a mortise lock, the organization of which is built from:
- Housings;
- Front strip part;
- Drive lever;
- Deadbolt with a special latch;
- Basic action deadbolt.
Regardless of the attachment to the door, the design of modern locking devices includes two components: a secret and an actuator.
Using the secret system, the key to the lock is identified, and the actuator performs the locking.
Types of secrets
- Mechanical secrets are made in different options, here are the most important of them:
- Cylindrical. This option is based on a special part - a cylinder. It is in its core that there are elements that prevent the lock from being picked - the pins. A castle with such a secret is called English and is the most common.
- Level - consists of several teeth on the key, which determine the number of levers.
- Coded - a structure is opened on a set of numbers when entering a key.
- Electronic - based on a drive that is built inside.
Types of actuators
The following systems are used as an actuator:
- Electromechanical – deadbolt with electric drive.
- Electromagnetic - magnet as a locking mechanism.
- Mechanical - locking is carried out by a metal rod that fits into a special groove.
Organization of a lever lock
The reliability of such a locking system depends on the number of plates; the more there are, the more effective the protective function will be.
The suval type system consists of the following elements:
- Transverse mechanism of the bolt - bolt;
- Metal plate - lever;
- Special key hole.
The principle of operation of this system is that all the plates occupy certain positions, after which it becomes possible to turn the key.
Structure of the cylinder lock system
Such a lock design can be mortise or overlay; it is a secret mechanism in the core - the cylinder. Locks of this type can be single-sided or double-sided. The first type can be opened with a key only from one side, the second contains two cylinders. It cannot be opened from the inside without a key.
The work of locking a room with a cylindrical device comes down to certain actions: the key is inserted into a groove with a limited protrusion, which is located in the cylinder. The part of the cylinder is always rotating. But only if the correct key is inserted. The rest of the structure remains motionless - this is the body. The actuator is the pins that the key lifts. Depending on the position of the pins, our lock will be open or closed. The mechanism is opened only when all encryption elements match.
Interior door locking system
IN interior version locking is not particularly in demand, but if such a design is required, then a special one built into door leaf A beautiful lock that consists of a turning plate, a bolt, a spring, a holding lever, a latch, and a housing cover.
When a person leaves his apartment, he is used to closing it with a special mechanism - a lock. If earlier locking systems were simple, today, in the times of computer technology, invisible locks are appearing that can protect any apartment from burglary. Cheap locking mechanisms can be easily drilled and knocked out, and the locking system hidden in the door leaf works only from the radio frequencies of a special key fob. The locking design may be complex or simple system, but experience suggests that it is better to choose one lock for the door panel good quality than a few cheap and simple ones.
