Most people don’t pay attention to their door locks when carrying out home maintenance. Unfortunately, people don’t realize the importance of door locks until when they can’t access their houses. Just like other mechanical items, door locks require regular maintenance because grime and dirt get into the locks. Fortunately, you can hire locksmith services to help you maintain door locks regularly. These tips will help you retain door locks in excellent condition.
1. Check the door frame
The only way your lock will function properly is when the door is hung correctly. A sagging door or one that is not even with the frame exerts pressure on the deadbolt and the lock, which results to a faulty lock. Therefore, to ensure that your lock functions correctly, ensure that you regularly check the top of the door to be sure that it is level across the length. Contact a Toronto locksmith if you are not sure.
2. Clean door locks
The best part about maintaining locks is that you don’t have to struggle. You can ensure functional door locks by cleaning them often without overdoing. You can use a mild cleaning solution; otherwise, abrasive cleaners damage door locks. Also, you should not use petroleum-based products because they interfere with the lock’s finish. In fact, a wet rag can also be used to clean door locks.
3. Lubrication
Lubrication is one of the essential parts of lock maintenance, yet it is one of the most overlooked factors. A professional locksmith can lubricate your door locks at least once a year. Also, it is advisable to avoid petroleum-based lubricants. Graphite lubricants are better than the former. In fact, it is desirable to spray a small amount of oil on the lock into the keyway the run the key in and out as you wipe dirt particles. Additionally, locksmiths sometimes remove the lock from your door so that they lubricate to the bolt.
4. Avoid unnecessary force
Just like other items in your home, locks should be well looked after to ensure that they last for a long time. Unfortunately, most people don’t understand the importance of handling door locks with care; hence, they harm locks unknowingly. One of the biggest threats door locks face is being treated with unnecessary force. Door locks are strong, but that doesn’t mean that they are not impervious to damage. You should not slam your closed door or bang your door lock with solid items even if they sound like harmless because they damage locks in the long run.
5. Duplicate the original key
Keys are made to last for a long time. However, they wear out after some time, and your door lock remains intact. Therefore, having a duplicate key from the original key is paramount. The precaution ensures that you don’t break your door lock when the original key no longer functions.
