Eek!

[susanreads]

Today is the day to put my windows in their winter configuration, and I needed to go outside to shut the living-room window properly, so I went to unlock the front door, and I couldn't! First it resisted, then the key wouldn't turn at all. I went the long way round via the back lane, but couldn't get it unlocked from the outside either. (It's a barrel lock; the same keys work [when they work] on both sides, but I guess there's two copies of the mechanism.)

I phoned a friend, who came round with some WD40, and meanwhile I managed to wrestle it open. My hands ache. The WD40 didn't fix it; the key turns without turning the lock over as often as not. Now I don't dare re-lock it in case I can't shift it again.

The odd-job guy is coming round tomorrow to measure it up for a new lock. Meanwhile, I'm not locked in, but I hope I don't need to leave the house!

Comments

[amadi]

If possible, you might want to try graphite spray. I'm not sure how available it is there, here we get it at automotive repair stores. It gives the key more purchase within the lock mechanism. It's a considerably cheaper (and quite long-lasting) and much simpler alternative to a full on replacement.

[susanreads]

I think the old lock was pretty worn out; it was over 20 years old. Now I've got a new one, so I won't be worrying about getting locked in or out if it plays up again. Thanks for the suggestion though.