A deadlatch is a feature that can prevent someone from opening a lock with a credit card or picking it with a sharp tool. In order for a deadlatch to work properly, it has to be depressed when the door is closed. If the deadlatch is not depressed, or if it falls into the strike opening, it will not work, making your home vulnerable to burglars.
Misalignment Can Cause a Deadlatch to Fail
The most common cause of a deadlatch not working correctly is poor installation. The person who installed it may have left too much of a gap between the door and the jamb. This can make it easy to pick the lock. There should be a gap of about 1/8 inch between the door and the jamb.
Any pressure against the deadlatch when it falls into the strike opening can break the deadlatch or cause it to fail. If the gap between the door and the jamb is off, it can usually be corrected by adjusting the strike position or putting shims behind the strike.
You can tell if there is a problem with the deadlatch when you slowly close the door. If the door swings in, you can look at how the latch operates as you close it from the inside. The latch should move into the strike opening, but the deadlatch should not. If you hear two separate clicking sounds when you close the door, this can indicate a problem.
Weather Stripping Can Cause a Problem with a Deadlatch
Weather stripping used for insulation can also cause a deadlatch to not work correctly. Heavy weather stripping can become compressed when the door closes. The deadlatch may work if the door is closed gently, but the weather stripping may become compressed if the door is closed with more force and cause the deadlatch plunger to fall into the strike opening. The strike position will need to be adjusted to prevent this from happening.
Call All American Locksmiths to Have Your Deadlatch Repaired
If your deadlatch is not working correctly, you should have the problem repaired as soon as possible. A faulty deadlatch can compromise your home security and put your family at risk. In many cases, a simple adjustment is all that is needed to fix the deadlatch.
All American Locksmiths has helped homeowners across Connecticut with their residential lock service needs. We can find the problem with your deadlatch and make any necessary adjustments to correct it. Contact us today to have your deadlatch repaired and keep your family safe.
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