Commercial doors experience frequent use, which means that their locks and hardware can develop problems. For business owners, these issues can put security at risk and disrupt daily operations. At Pro Locksmiths, we’ve seen how small lock problems can quickly become major security concerns. Here are five frequent issues with commercial door locks and hardware, along with some practical solutions.

1. Stiff or Hard-to-Operate Locks

When commercial locks become difficult to use, it’s inconvenient and can be potentially dangerous. Over time, locks collect dirt and debris inside the mechanism and this makes keys hard to insert or turn. The solution for this is to clean and lubricate the lock with a graphite or silicone-based lubricant made for locks. Never use oil or grease, as these attract more dirt. If cleaning doesn’t help, you may need to replace worn parts or the entire lock.

2. Misaligned Door Locks and Strike Plates

When locks don’t line up with their strike plates, the doors won’t close or lock properly. This can create security gaps and damage both the lock and door frame when people force the door closed. To solve this issue, first, check and tighten loose screws on both the lock and strike plate. If that doesn’t work, you may need to adjust the strike plate position by loosening its screws and moving it slightly. For more serious cases where the door or frame has shifted, you will need professional help. This issue needs quick attention as it can affect the security of your building.

3. Broken Keys or Keys Stuck in Locks

Keys can break inside locks because of too much force, worn keys or damaged locks. This often happens at the worst times, such as when you open or close your business. If a key gets stuck, don’t use pliers that might push the broken piece deeper. Apply a small amount of lock lubricant and gently try to remove the fragment with proper extraction tools. If you can’t remove the broken key, call a professional locksmith.

4. Malfunctioning Door Closers

Door closers make sure doors shut completely after each use, but when they malfunction, they may close doors too quickly (causing safety hazards) or too slowly (risking security). Most commercial door hardware closers have adjustment screws that control closing speed, so check these first. Also, look for any leaking fluid, which means the closer needs replacement. For complex commercial door systems, professional adjustment will make sure they work correctly and meet safety codes.

5. Loose or Damaged Internal Lock Components

Locks contain many small parts that can wear out over time so when these components wear down, locks may work inconsistently or fail. You might notice the key becoming harder to turn, strange noises or incomplete locking. To fix this, start by tightening any visible external screws. For internal issues, the lock may need to be taken apart – something best done by professionals for complex locks. Depending on the damage, you might need to replace specific parts or get new door locks entirely. Regular maintenance can catch problems before complete failure occurs.

Conclusion

Keeping commercial locks and hardware working properly is important for business security. By spotting these common problems early and fixing them promptly, you can avoid expensive emergency repairs. While some minor issues can be fixed through simple cleaning and adjustments, complex door hardware problems often require professional help.