Silly door mistake (lock and keyhole alignment) (Ed,)

[MrsSilenceDogood]

I tried to install a new lock. The keyhole in the lock did not line up perfectly with the keyhole in the door, so I widened the door keyhole. Put old lock back. Now I can't put the esctcheon on as I have removed the wood where the escutcheon screws would go. What is the best way to fix this, so I can add on an escutcheon.

 

[johnny2007]

Put some sealant on the inside of the escutcheon to stop it dropping.
Not ideal but functional.
I use Soudal fixall for this sort of things.
And stick the left screw in its hole so it will look normal.

 

[JohnD]

You can get a brass of steel cover plate that is bigger (repair escutcheon)

Another way is to take out the lock, put a broad metal filling knife in the mortice and press it against the side, or pack it with paper, and use wood filler to fill the hole, drilling out the keyhole and using a keyhole saw or file to finish the shape. Decorators filler is not strong enough and will crumble.

The knife is to prevent the filler falling through the hole

To position it correctly, use a ruler and pencil to draw a vertical and a horizontal line on the door, intersecting at the point where the round spindle of the key should fit. This is where you will drill the hole. The accurate hole and the filler guide the key into the lock.

https://www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/product/square-plate-escutcheon-52-x-52mm-keyhole-polished-brass-980611

https://www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/product/jumbo-repair-escutcheon-65.5-x-47.6mm-keyhole-polished-chrome-691180

 

[JohnD]

Links added above.

 

[MrsSilenceDogood]

Thanks, John. Much appreciate.