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Most people are aware that a locksmith works on locks and on other lock related needs and issues and mostly this is on external doors focusing on security. However, many are not aware that a locksmith can also help with internal door issues, so this article has been written to highlight how a locksmith might be able to help when it comes problems and requirements relating to internal doors.
One of the biggest problems people can have with an internal door is the situation when it cannot be opened.
This is normally because the latch mechanism has failed and although the handle moves down normally, it can become detached from the latch and therefore it does not retract leaving you with no way to open the door.
This can be frustrating and potentially serious if there is an urgent need to get into (or out of) the room.
Many people resort to force to get the door open, which might be OK in those urgent situations, but force creates damage that is not necessary.
A locksmith has certain techniques and tools to be able to gain non-destructive entry on an internal door that cannot be opened with the handle.
Using a locksmith will be cheaper than forcing the door open and then having to repair the damage afterwards.
The part that engages into the door frame keeping a door closed is called a tubular latch.
There are many different manufacturers and different sizes. Most good locksmiths will carry a range of tubular latches to replace any latches that are broken, not moving freely or just causing issues.
If this is causing your internal door issues, it is a good idea to replace a problematic tubular latch before it fails.
The part in the door frame that the latch goes into is called a strike plate. These can become loose or bent or misaligned. If this happens, then the latch may not engage properly meaning that it is not possible to keep the door closed.
This is another situation where a locksmith can help by adjusting or replacing the strike plate.
For various reasons, people often want to fit additional locks on internal doors. This is normally to protect certain rooms from being accessed when guests and visitors are in the property.
Of course locksmiths can advise on which locks to fit. Locks for internal doors do not need to have the same security standard as an external door and therefore the costs are less.
Bathroom locks are a good example of an internal lock that can be fitted by a locksmith. These locks do not require a key and can be opened from the outside with a screwdriver or a coin.
Additional security features like sliding bolts can also be fitted by a locksmith.
A locksmith can also help when it comes to fitting and replacing all types of door handles.
Whether your handle is broken, damaged or just worn and/or out-of-date, ask a locksmith about fitting new internal handles.
Due to the wide variety of designs, styles, finishes and sizes, it is unlikely that a locksmith will have what you need on the van, but they should carry something to fit even on a
temporary basis until it is agreed what design is desired and then they will be able to source it.
Sometimes an issue can occur with the internal door because the door has become misaligned. This can happen due to wear & tear and/or use & abuse. Locksmiths should be able to resolve problems with misalignment by adjusting the hinges to allow the door to close without any problems.
They should also offer the service of sanding or planing a door if needed.
A fire door is designed to stop/slow the spread of fire between rooms and they are made from fire-resistant materials and hardware. A reputable locksmith will be aware of which doors are fire doors and can take that into account when checking/selecting hardware (e.g. locks).
Fire doors are not required on every door, but certain doors, e.g. between the integral garage and the house must have one. Fire doors are usually needed on HMO’s (Houses of Multiple Occupancy), flats, doors leading to the stairwell on 3-storey houses and most commercial properties. There are lots of other rules about fire door regulations. Read my article on Fire Door Regulations for more information.
The next time you have internal door issues or a requirement relating to an internal door, why not contact your local locksmith to get some advice or a quote. They may be more competitive than a carpenter and more knowledgeable than a handyman. For any requirements in Witham, Maldon or across Essex, contact Lock Guy
Got a question about a lock issue you may have? Why not have a look at the FAQ page or one of the helpful advice videos on the Media page.