Fix Door Latch Alignment

A binding door may need to be planed but often simpler repairs will solve the problem.

Fix door latch alignment.

When a door latch doesn t click into position it usually means the latch and the strike plate are out of alignment. How to adjust a door by the hinges for better alignment it can be the case that a door springs open on its own when you try and close it. Loosen the knobs a little to relieve some of the pressure on the door and to free up the latch a little. Sometimes you can clearly see the misalignment.

If it binds on the latch side at the bottom you may need to fix the bottom hinge screws. When a door latch won t catch it s because the latch doesn t align with the hole in the strike plate. Tighten the screws or repair the screw holes. Luckily this is an easy fix and all that you need is a screwdriver small chisel hammer and a pencil or marker.

While it is possible it isn t functioning properly or is out of alignment it. Door lock doesn t latch properly. How to adjust a door that will not latch. A misaligned door results in uneven gaps along the edges and often affects closing and latching.

When your door doesn t latch the problem may not be with the latch itself. The problem of a door not latching is commonly caused by a misaligned strike plate so the first thing you have to do is to check the strike plate first for alignment. In some cases a simple fix like tightening the hinges is enough. Repairs range from making minor latch adjustments to repositioning the door.

Other times the misaligned door requires a more challenging repair like shimming the hinges. This could be because the hinges are chopped in too deeply causing the edge of the door and the frame to bind against each other when shutting the door. Step 3 align strike plate. If a door binds on the latch side at the top the upper hinge may be loose.

If the door still does not latch properly then it could be that the strike plate is not aligning properly with the latch. Beginning to make sure the door will latch properly. Try applying wd 40 or a silicone lubricant if the latch is still catching in the door.