File only the sides that are needed in order to have a proper fit for the lock.
Front door deadbolt not lining up.
Unscrew the strike plate from the door jamb clamp it in a vise then file it down to the chalk mark above right.
A strike plate is usually affixed to the door jamb and facilitates the extension of the bolt or latch.
For instance some of the best front door locks are a mixture of mortise locks.
If it s still not locking file away a little more of the strike plate until the bolt locks properly.
If a deadbolt lock is not working properly take a look at the alignment of the bolt lock and the strike plate.
In that case take the hinges from the frame.
Lift the door up to relieve the pressure on the hinges and tighten the screws.
Reinstall the plate and test the dead bolt.
If the door is sagging and will not line up with the latch check the door hinges.
In most cases it means that the latch or locking bolt are not lining up with the door locks strike plate.
Poor alignment can occur because your house has settled or shifted over time the door frame is old or warped or the door is sagging on its hinges.
Luckily fixing the alignment of your door doesn t have to be a chore.
Open the door and look for a telltale kiss on the strike plate.
One possible reason for this is that your door isn t properly aligned.