Fixing worn locks in older houses
Decades of use wear down pins and springs, and houses settle so doors no longer line up with the strike. Symptoms include a key that has to be jiggled, a deadbolt that only throws when you push the door, or a knob that feels loose. Often a cleaning, a new cylinder or a strike adjustment fixes it without replacing the whole lock.
When an upgrade is worth it
If your front door still relies on a knob lock alone, adding a Grade 1 deadbolt is one of the most effective security improvements you can make. For two-family homes, we can key both floors' locks so the owner holds a master.
- Lock repair, cleaning and re-pinning
- Deadbolt installation and strike plate reinforcement
- Door alignment so bolts throw smoothly
- House and apartment lockouts
- Rekeying after a move
Central Avenue businesses
Shop owners along Central Avenue call us for roll-down gate padlocks, rear-door deadbolts, lock changes after staff leave and cash-drawer or cabinet locks. We can schedule work before opening time so customers aren't disturbed.
Getting to you
Heights streets are narrow and parking is scarce. Let us know if there's a driveway, hydrant-free stretch or loading space nearby, and whether your door is at the front, side or rear of the house.
Windows and side gates
Many Heights houses have basement windows at street level and side alleys leading to the back yard. Keyed window locks and a lockable gate latch are simple ways to close off these routes. We can also check that existing window locks still engage properly, which is common in houses with painted-over or replaced sashes.
For houses split into two units, consider a separate keyed entrance for each floor, so tenants don't need keys to shared areas they don't use.
Questions from 07307
My key turns but the deadbolt sticks. Do I need a new lock?
Not necessarily. Sticking bolts are often caused by door misalignment. We check alignment first, then the lock.
Can you replace a padlock on a roll-down gate?
Yes. We supply and fit shrouded padlocks that are harder to cut.
Do you install locks on gates?
Yes. We fit keyed gate latches and padlock hasps, and can key them to match your house key where the hardware allows.
Nearby areas we serve
Looking for something specific? See our residential, commercial, automotive and emergency services.