It may be because it’s no longer aligned properly. Fortunately, we know a few ways to tell if this is the case and we can give you solutions to fix it. Let’s go over four of them.

1. Difficulty Opening/Closing

If your door used to open and close smoothly, but no longer does, this is one of the most obvious signs of a misalignment. You shouldn’t have to use excessive force to shut your door and it shouldn’t stick or jam frequently. This could be because of shifts in your home, changes in temperature and humidity, or general wear and tear. Whatever the reason, the solution will involve checking that all hardware in the door is still intact and tightened. If issues still occur, the hinges (or entire door) may need to be replaced. If you’re unsure, a locksmith can help.

2. Visible Gaps

If there are gaps around the door when it’s closed, that’s another warning sign. This condition can allow light, dust and even pests to enter your home, in addition to creating a security concern. Energy efficiency may suffer, as well as indoor comfort, so this isn’t an issue you want to live with. Whether the gaps are on the top, bottom or sides of the door, you can start addressing it by inspecting for warping or damage. Use a level to confirm whether the door frame is straight, and if not, adjust or replace the door as necessary.

3. Uneven Floor Clearance

There should be consistent clearance along the bottom of the door. If one side seems higher or lower than the other, that means the door is likely misaligned. This can be due to uneven flooring surfaces as well, or improper installation. Again, check for damage to the door frame and make any adjustments that need to be made. If you can’t fix it by shimming the hinges, adjustable door sweeps can help compensate for uneven alignment. But your best bet is to see a professional locksmith for their advice.

4. Excessive Noises

Finally, if you notice consistent squeaking, grinding, scraping, creaking or other sounds, it could be due to a misalignment or friction between moving door components. In this case, inspect the hinges, latch and door hardware for issues (and lubricate as necessary). If the noises persist, consider replacing the hinges or hardware with options that restore smooth operation and prevent future issues.

These are just a few examples of how to work with or fix misaligned doors in your home. If you still have a door problem you can’t diagnose or you’re interested in new locks, keys or other security needs, contact A-1 Locksmith today.

Like any other home appliance, a door and its related hardware requires routine inspection and maintenance to make sure that everything works correctly. The following guide is meant to help you understand the hardware of your door, as well as what you can do if it needs repair or replacement.

Door Hardware Specifics

Nearly all doors are installed with the same (or similar) hardware. To be sure, in order to latch shut, the door must contain a latch on the door, as well as a latch strike on the door frame. And, if the door utilizes a deadbolt, opposite this will be a deadbolt strike in the door frame, as well. Finally, the door will possess a mortise plate that surrounds the latch, as well as a lever or knob to open the door itself. This is not an exhaustive list of the hardware you may see on your door; however, issues often arise with these specifically, so understanding their placement and purpose can help in the pursuit of a remedy.

Inspecting and Maintaining Door Hardware

In general, as a homeowner or business owner, it is imperative that you take action immediately if you notice an issue with one of your doors. And, one of the most common issues to arise with door hardware involves the door not latching easily when shut, or not latching at all. This can be an inconvenience, at best; or a safety hazard, if the door cannot be locked.

Ultimately, if the door is unable to latch, it means either the latch or the deadbolt (or both) is missing the strike on the door foundation; this could be due to the house foundation shifting over time, or the door pulling the hinges downwards.

Check Your Hardware Routinely, and Call a Locksmith for Help

While there is no exact amount of time after which you must check your door hardware, doing so on a routine basis, especially if you notice wear and tear, can help you catch problems before they arise.

Of course, if you do notice a problem with your door hardware, it is imperative that you contact a locksmith. A skilled locksmith can identify the source of the issue and find a quick solution to help you protect your home.

Do you need a locksmith in the Dallas area? Reach out to us today at A-1 Locksmith for assistance. We have been helping Dallas residents for over 65 years, and we would like to put our experience to work for you immediately.