Most of the time, you don’t have to give a second thought to unlocking your doors; you just stick the key in, turn it, and you’re safely inside. But in the winter, locks don’t always function properly due to the cold temperatures. Fortunately, if you can’t get into your home because of this problem, you have a few ways of getting back inside. Here, the experts at Richmond Hill Locksmith in Bryan County, GA, share how the cold affects your locks and what you can do about it.

What Winter Temperatures Can Do to Locks

Freezing

As the temperature drops, cold air can cause locks to freeze. Ice formation will block the keyhole, which will make it difficult to turn the lock. To prevent this from happening, try spraying it with a special lubricant designed to dissolve the ice. Another tip to try is warming the key up and inserting it into the lock. Then, gently twist the key back and forth. The friction should help melt some of the ice away.

Contraction

Another common problem in the winter occurs when the door contracts, essentially causing it to pull away from the frame slightly. As a result, the lock no longer aligns correctly with the frame, making it difficult to turn your key. You may be able to resolve the issue temporarily by firmly pulling the door shut to force the lock to work. This is not an ideal solution, however, because you could damage the door. A locksmith can realign the lock and door for you.

The cold weather presents challenges that can render your locks nearly inoperable. When you can’t get into your home or office, turn to Richmond Hill Locksmith. This full-service company is available 24 hours a day to handle any repair, replacement, and lockout service. Call them at (912) 727-3878 to schedule an appointment, and visit them online for more information.