First, check if the latch moves in smoothly when you push it in with your finger. If it does, then the lock itself is working as it should.
By default, the outside handle isn’t connected to the latch, so pulling the handle down from outside doesn’t retract the latch. However, you don’t need to unlock the door to close it. You should be able to simply pull the door closed, and the latch will click into place automatically.
If the latch isn’t sliding in easily, it may feel like you need to unlock the door to close it, when really the issue might be with the door alignment. This often happens if the gap between the door and the frame is too tight, preventing the latch from moving smoothly. Changes in temperature or humidity can also affect the fit of your door over time.
If your door was working previously and now isn’t, check if it has swollen or shifted. Adjusting the door hinge or strike plate should help create enough space for the latch to slide in easily.
If you have any other questions, feel free
contact us.