What to Do If Your Door Won’t Latch or Stay Closed Properly
A door that won’t latch properly isn’t just annoying—it’s a security issue. Whether the problem is with the lock, latch, strike plate, or door alignment, it needs to be addressed quickly to ensure your home stays secure and your privacy isn’t compromised.
At Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm, we help Phoenix homeowners fix doors that don’t close or lock right the first time. Here’s how to troubleshoot the issue and what to do next.
Common Reasons Your Door Won’t Latch
Misaligned Strike Plate
This is one of the most common problems we see in Phoenix homes. If the strike plate on the door frame doesn’t line up with the latch, your door won’t stay shut. This can happen over time due to: Settling foundations
Extreme heat expanding materials
Loose hardware
Warped or Swollen Doors
In the summer heat or during monsoon season, moisture and temperature shifts can cause wood doors to swell or warp, pushing the latch out of alignment.
Loose Hinges
If your door hinges are loose or sagging, the latch may no longer line up with the strike plate. Even a small shift in alignment can prevent proper latching.
Broken Latch or Hardware
Sometimes the latch mechanism itself is the issue—if it’s stuck, damaged, or broken, the latch won’t extend into the strike plate fully, leaving your door insecure.
DIY Fixes You Can Try
✅ Tighten the hinges
Use a screwdriver to tighten all screws on the top and bottom hinges. This can often realign the door enough for the latch to work again.
✅ Adjust the strike plate
If the latch doesn’t reach the strike plate, you may need to reposition or enlarge the strike hole slightly. You can also bend the strike plate inward for a better catch.
✅ Lubricate the latch
Spray a graphite or silicone-based lubricant into the latch mechanism if it’s sticking or feels tight.
✅ Inspect for warping
If your door rubs against the frame or appears swollen, a professional may need to sand or plane it slightly to ensure a proper fit.
When to Call a Locksmith
Call a pro if: The latch is still not catching after basic adjustments
The latch or lock hardware is visibly damaged
You want to replace old or loose hardware with something more secure
You need door reinforcement or full realignment
We carry strike plates, deadbolts, screws, hinge reinforcements, and everything needed to get your door latching properly again.
We Fix Latch Issues All Over Phoenix
Whether it’s your front door, back door, or garage entry—our mobile locksmiths are available across: Arcadia
Ahwatukee
Biltmore
Camelback East
Maryvale
Downtown Phoenix
South Phoenix
North Phoenix
We’ll arrive with tools ready to repair or replace door hardware and get your door closing securely again.
Don’t Ignore a Door That Won’t Latch
It might seem minor, but an unlatched door means your home is vulnerable to break-ins and accidents. We’ll fix it fast—so your door shuts tight and stays shut.
Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm – Phoenix
Call Today: (602) 854-2766
https://www.affordablesecurityphoenix.com
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Door won’t latch or stay closed?
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