Locks are quintessential security features of homes, offices, and off-limits areas. Like everything with mechanical working parts, locks require a certain maintenance level to keep the mechanism working. Maintaining locks improves their service life and reduces the chances of them jamming or incorrectly operating. Here are some essential lock maintenance tips to keep your locks in tip-top condition and extend their lifespan.
Lock Maintenance Tips: Extending the Lifespan of Your Locks
Tip #1 Regular Cleaning and Use
Dust, grime, dirt, and other particulate matter can clog the lock mechanism, making it stiff and hard to open. Clean the locking mechanism using the following steps:
- Blow It Out – Use compressed air to blow out the keyhole to remove debris causing the lock to stick.
- Wipe the Outside – Using a soft cloth, wipe the lock to remove surface contaminants. Use mild soap and water solutions to remove stubborn grime. Properly dry the surface to avoid rusting.
- Apply Graphite-Based Lubricant – Use a dry lubricant designed for locks. Don’t apply oil-based lubricant, as it attracts more dirt and grime, worsening the problem.
Using your locks regularly keeps the mechanism working smoothly. This prevents it from jamming after it’s been sitting for a while.
If a lock is rarely used, its inner components stiffen up, lessening the lock’s functionality. When you regularly use a lock, the parts keep moving, allowing lubricant to spread to its internal components, allowing the lock to function properly.
Tip #2 Proper Use of Keys
Keys are crucial for the effective operation of a lock and its service life. Here are some important dos and don’ts for your keys.
Correct Key Usage
Use the right key in the lock. Forcing a key into a keyway may damage it and make it hard to remove. The original key may also have a hard time opening the lock after damaging the keyway and locking mechanism.
No Excessive Force
Don’t attempt to bang on a lock if you insert the key and it doesn’t spring open. Applying blunt force trauma to the lock will not resolve the situation. Rather call a professional locksmith to solve the issue rather than risk further damage and replacement costs.
Have Keys Duplicated Correctly
When you duplicate keys, get them duplicated by a professional locksmith. Make sure that the service provider has a good reputation on Google and social media. Poor key duplication by inexperienced locksmiths can lead to issues with unlocking, locking, or inserting the key. Poorly duplicated keys will cause your lock to wear out prematurely.
Tip #3 Addressing Rust and Corrosion
Rust and corrosion severely reduce the service lifespan of your locks over time. This is especially true if installed in overly humid climates or areas around the home, such as the bathroom. Use the following strategies to prevent rust and corrosion.
Consider Weather-Resistant Locks
When used outdoors, choose locks purposely designed for exposure to the elements. Look for weatherproof locks made of stainless steel or brass which are highly corrosion-resistant.
Apply a weather-resistant coating
Apply a thin film of wax or lock lubricant. This will protect the mechanism and keyway from rusting. The thin film acts as a moisture barrier, preventing rust from forming.
Tip #4 Preventative Measures
Prevention is half the battle and better than cure. Taking proactive steps to extend the service life of your locks keeps them working for years. Follow these tips for preventative lock maintenance.
Use Deadbolts
Deadbolts enhance door security and prevent forced entry. Reinforce deadbolts and the door to make it harder for would-be intruders to force the lock open. This strategy adds to your door’s security and saves the locks from being broken.
Use Good Locks
Get top-quality locks from renowned manufacturers. These are quite costly initially but strong and reliable, and they require less maintenance over the long run.
Avoid Excess Moisture
Moisture is the nemesis of locks and locking mechanisms. Avoid using locks in areas where they’re constantly rained on in contact with water. If that’s not possible, ensure you’re using a weather-resistant and well-maintained lock for the application.
Replace Worn Parts Regularly
Most locks feature small parts that wear out from time to time. Check for worn or damaged parts and replace them as needed to ensure the lock opens and closes every time.
Tip #5 The Key to Performance and Longevity — Use Professionals for Lock Maintenance
Do-it-yourself maintenance can boost the service life and effective operation of your locks. However, having them professionally serviced is the best route to achieving optimal longevity for the locks’ working parts. Occasional servicing of your locks by a qualified, legitimate locksmith is the best approach to the issue.
If you have problematic locks and can’t get them open, a locksmith can:
- Visit the site
- Open the lock
- Repair or replace
Locksmiths also offer the following range of services to help with lock maintenance or troubleshooting.
Rekeying
Replacing the keys and locks is a must for any new homeowner. Even if you’re renting, it’s worth considering. If you don’t know how many keys are in circulation – it’s a security risk.
Rekeying changes the internal mechanism of the lock to fit a new key, without replacing the entire lock. It is an affordable and effective upgrade to your home security.
Lock Correction
Door frame shifting and settling over time often misalign locks, affecting how they engage with the strike plate in the door jamb. Locksmiths can restore the smooth operation of the locking mechanism.
Professional Cleaning
The locksmith disassembles the lock professionally. With proper care, they clean all its parts and lubricate the locks to ensure smooth operation.
Follow These Lock Maintenance Tips to Extend their Lifespan
Maintaining the locks you use for protection is essential to ensuring the security and safety of your home, office, and personal property. Follow these five easy lock maintenance tips to ensure they work properly. Check your locks for signs of wear and tear and always use proper lubrication to keep them working properly.
Carl Jarl Locksmiths | Home Security Systems Omaha, NE
Carl Jarl Locksmiths can secure your business with panic bars, exit locks, card access systems, and more. We guarantee our locks and offer 24/7 service to keep your business safe at all times.
Always use the services of a trusted local Locksmith/Home Security Company. Carl Jarl Locksmiths offers products and services to make your home safe and secure. Your Security is our top priority.
- We are licensed, bonded, and insured
- Provide immediate response
- We have a 24-hour locksmith dispatch center
- All our employees are background checked, wear uniforms, and arrive in our own identifiable service vehicles
Choose experience and peace of mind. Carl Jarl Locksmith’s prompt and dependable Locksmith Service is just a phone call away.
