Preventing Lock Wear and Tear
Although locks are important in keeping homes, offices, and cars secure, they're often overlooked during maintenance. As a result, they wear out sooner than expected.
Here are some methods to prevent lock wear and tear:
Keep the lock components clean
Locks get dirty in many ways. Dust and dirt can get into the keyway and move to other parts of the lock, especially outdoor locks. Other times, moisture infiltrates the lock and causes it to rust. Also, keys can transfer dirt to the keyway when locked or unlocked.
If this dirt accumulates, the lock won't work properly. For that reason, it's necessary to clean the locks regularly. Lock cleaning involves a damp cloth or brush with soft bristles, a mild detergent, and pressurized air. Please note that harsh cleaning agents or rough materials can damage the lock.
Here are key areas to target:
Keyhole: Spray pressurized air and wipe the surrounding areas.
Latch: Move the doorknob back and forth to clean and wipe the dirt from the latch with a damp cloth.
Hinges: Wipe the hinge pins and plate with a damp, soft cloth.
Lubricate the lock
A lock has various moving parts, such as springs and pins. Lubrication helps them to move smoothly without friction or sticking. In addition, lubricants act as a barrier against moisture, protecting the metallic parts from rust.
Although there are different types of lubricants, the best options are Teflon and graphite. Petroleum lubricants attract dust and dirt, which might cause problems in the lock.
To ensure the lubricant reaches the full length of the lock, apply it in the keyway and push and pull the key. Also, apply the lubricant on the external parts, such as hinges.
Replace worn-out keys
A worn-out key usually has rounded or smooth teeth and might not readily open the door. It will require jiggling multiple times, which adds stress to the lock. With continued use, the lock and the key might break or get damaged. Therefore, always ensure that keys have jagged or rough edges.
Tighten the lock hinges
Lock hinges, usually found on the inside of the door, have a habit of becoming loose with continued use of the lock. As such, it's important to tighten them regularly using a screwdriver.
If the screws become loose shortly after tightening them, they might have stripped from the hole and need replacing.
Ensure the door is hung properly
When a door sags, it misaligns other components, including the lock. In this state, the latch might fail to engage or disengage with the frame smoothly. Use a carpenter's hammer and level to realign the door if that's the case.
Keep the lock working smoothly
Locks have a lifespan of over five years. However, without proper maintenance, they might wear out sooner than expected. If problems persist with any locks, home or business owners should call professional locksmiths.
Kwik Pick Lock and Safe offers FREE lockout service for children or pets. If you need locksmith services for your Surprise, El Mirage, or Phoenix home or auto, call today 623-300-1889.
