Kwikset is one of the top brands which offer industry-leading locks to safeguard your personal or commercial space. These locks come in different types and feature advanced technologies to make things convenient and effortless.
However, one of the common issues with these locks is their decorative faceplates, which tend to loosen off after some time. Furthermore, this problem can get evident when a faceplate becomes so loose that it would fall out with the slightest of vibrations.
How to tighten up a loose face plate of a Kwikset? You can tighten up a loose face plate by drawing the lock mechanism inward using the screws present left and right of the tang.
This process squeezes the faceplate in place and prevents it from getting loose.
You can also try other measures provided in this article to tighten a loose Kwikset faceplate.
Steps To Tighten Up A Loose Face Plate Of A Kwikset
Kwikset locks feature multiple parts that combine together to provide the best security and aesthetics to your doors. Although every component in a Kwikset lock comes with screws to keep it in place, the exterior faceplate relies on compression to stick to your door’s surface.
However, a faceplate is an integral part of your locking system as it protects the lock cylinder from various elements and provides an aesthetic feel to your Kwikset lock. In short, having a loose faceplate is not ideal, and it would be best to fix it as soon as possible.
Here are the steps to tighten up a loose face plate of a Kwikset.
Step 1: Check The Locking System
Detach the faceplate from the door and check the positioning of your locking system. If your locking system is loose, you will first have to fix this problem before tightening the faceplate.
Step 2: Tighten The Screws
Most Kwikset locks feature two screws around the tang to keep your locking cylinder in place. If the screws are loose, the faceplate will not stay in its proper position, resulting in a loose fit. In short, you will have to tighten the screws to draw the locking mechanism inward, providing the perfect shape for the faceplate.
Step 3: Check For Uneven Door Surfaces
If the locking mechanism and screws are in their natural position, uneven surfaces on your door can also make the faceplate lose. For instance, degraded paints, scratched surfaces, or aged doors can loosen the faceplate after some time.
In short, check for uneven door surfaces and implement tactics to replenish these issues to provide a better fit for your faceplate.
Step 4: Use Light Adhesives
Using adhesives should be your final resort but can help you tighten a faceplate effectively. However, ensure that you use light adhesives as you may have to open the faceplate to fix other problems in your Kwikset lock.
Step 5: Replace The Screws
If you have a Kwikset lock with a deadbolt plate, you can try replacing the screws to get a better fit. Sometimes people use their door handles with wet hands, allowing water to sip inside the faceplate. Since water is not good for metals, it can cause rust in your screws and loosen the faceplate.
Is It Hard To Tighten Up A Loose Face Plate Of A Kwikset?
Although faceplates can be tricky when loose, you can tighten them up using DIY techniques and basic tools. In short, tightening a Kwikset faceplate is not hard, provided you know what’s causing the problem.
For instance, inappropriate positioning of your locking system can loosen the faceplate, which can also hinder your lock’s functionalities. Likewise, uneven door surfaces or loose screws can also cause this problem, and the best way to approach it is by analyzing the outer structure of your door and lock.
In short, the primary goal is to figure out the underlying issue and work on a plan to fix the problem.
Should You Buy Kwikset?
Kwikset is one of the leading manufacturers that produce high-quality lock systems. The company has been serving American homeowners since 1946 and has produced various innovative products over the years.
Kwikset produces a wide variety of locks, including SmartKey deadbolts, connected home technology, and combination locks using robust and impact-resistant materials.
For instance, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) awarded Grade 2 to the Kwikset Kevo smart lock, which is an excellent score for any locking mechanism. This grade certifies that a lock can withstand 360 lbs of bolt-end pressure and two 120 foot-pounds blows.
Likewise, the Underwriters Laboratories (a reputed organization that accesses a lock’s quality) confirmed that the Kwikset Kevo smart lock is resistant to most lockpicking techniques and tools.
Similarly, Kwikset has other models, including Kwikset Halo and Premis, offering excellent security measures at different price points.
Here are the benefits of choosing Kwikset over other brands.
- Kwikset’s re-key process is more convenient than other manufacturers
- It comes with a superior ANSI grade than most brands
- Kwikset locks are affordable
- Excellent product range at different price points
- Integrated security features
- Lots of advanced features
- Easy to install and operate
- Excellent customer support
Overall, Kwikset is a reliable brand that offers high-quality products at affordable prices and is undoubtedly worth considering.
Final Words
A loose faceplate on your Kwikset lock can be annoying, especially when it is on a high-traffic door. Thankfully, fixing or tightening a loose faceplate of a Kwikset lock is quick and straightforward, and all you have to do is identify the issue that’s creating the problem.