UPVC stiff/sticking key

Question

Recently the lock on my UPVC front door has started playing up. Turning the key on the outside is hard as it is very stiff, but inside it is normally easy. However a couple of times the door has been impossible to unlock from the inside. Rather than being stiff, they key just won't turn at all, like you would get if it was the wrong one. However I was able to unlock it from outside, albeit still very stiff, and it then works fine from the inside. The handle seems to work OK. 
Is this just a lock barrel or could it be something else?

Shayne · Accepted Answer

Hi yes it seems you will need a new lock and possible re-aligning if the door cheers.

Adam · Answer

It sounds like an alignment issue to me. The door will have adjustable hinges which can sort the problem.

Dan · Answer

Hi,  you need to check with the door open if the cylinder and the mechanism works properly. What you described here can be from the cylinder, mechanism problem or door alignment. Thanks

Paul · Answer

It could be a failed mechanism or a faulty barrel try removing the barrel and see if it turns fully out off the mech.  If not replace the barrel first as this is the cheapest part.

Sean · Answer

The best thing is to get a locksmith out to have a look. 
It could be that it needs a new barrel and is tge cheapest option .
It could be the gearbox, but the locksmith can see when he has removed the barrel.

Robert · Answer

Hi 
This could be a few different problems it could be door realignment, the lock itself maybe damaged or it could be the gearbox broken 
Many thanks 
Rob

David · Answer

Hi Peter, 
It can be a few things, is the problem still happening when the door is open, as it can be just a upvc door alignment issue, if the hooks are not lining up properly the door can't lock properly. 
If its still an issue with the door open,  then it's a new lock or gearbox issue, probably the lock as its different on each side of the lock, a gearbox fault would normally affect both side of the door.. 

Regards

John · Answer

I would  say you probably need a new lock cylinder fitting as you could end up locked out

Paul · Answer

With what you have said above I would say you need a new barrel and it should be OK

Brian · Answer

It sounds like the euro cylinder needs changing. The pins and key are not doing what they need to be doing.

Muhammad · Answer

Hi mate 

Sounds to me like your barrel is on its way out I'd recommend getting it changed sooner than later before you get locked out when you least expect it

Chris · Answer

Hi  the lock cylinders could be breaking down or the gear box on the door mechanisms could be failing

Jason · Answer

Hi, try some lubricants ideally silicone spray grease, wd40 will do for a short fix. Spray a little in both sides gently work the key in and out. Also gather all the keys you have find one that has the brand stamped on the key the barrel/ lock will also have a brand stamped on it usually silver in colour try it you might find you have been using a poor copy if you get any more keys cut use we call an original copy.
If this doesn't work then a new barrel will be required.
Good luck

UPVC stiff/sticking key

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