My Store Door Does Not Lock in montreal

If your store door does not lock, the problem is often not the lock itself. Before calling for service, there are a few important things you should inspect. Many lock failures are caused by environmental or mechanical issues around the door.

1. Check for snow, ice, or salt buildup (Winter issue)

During winter, snow, ice, and road salt often accumulate at the bottom or side corners of the door frame.

This buildup can:

  • Prevent the door from closing fully

  • Cause the latch to miss the strike

  • Make it seem like the lock is broken when it is not

🔍 What to do:

  • Inspect both bottom corners of the frame

  • Remove any snow, ice, or salt

  • Make sure the door closes completely without resistance

Even a few millimeters of obstruction can stop the lock from engaging.

2. Check the electric or mechanical strike

The strike is the metal part installed in the frame that receives the latch.

A very common issue is a broken or damaged strike lip (keeper).

🔍 What to do:

  • With the door open, gently touch the strike with your finger

  • Check if the strike lip feels loose, cracked, or broken

  • If the lip does not stay firm, the door will not lock properly

⚠️ A broken strike can make the lock appear defective even when the lock itself is working perfectly.

3. Door alignment matters

If the door has shifted due to:

  • Temperature changes

  • Building movement

  • Heavy daily use

The latch may no longer align with the strike correctly.

Signs of alignment issues:

  • Door needs to be pushed hard to lock

  • Lock works only when pulling or lifting the door

  • Lock works sometimes, then fails again

4. Do not force the door

Forcing the door to lock can:

  • Break the strike

  • Damage the latch

  • Void manufacturer warranties

If the door does not lock smoothly, stop forcing it.

When to call a professional

If after inspection:

  • The door closes fully

  • There is no ice or debris

  • The strike lip is broken or loose

📞 Call Serrurier Shay – Montreal Locksmith
514-836-9097

You can also send us clear pictures of:

  • The door edge

  • The frame

  • The strike

This helps us diagnose the issue faster and avoid unnecessary costs.