Depending on the quality of the equipment and original installation, door locks can last anywhere between a few years and a few decades. You can help your single-latch locks and deadbolts live longer by giving them some routine care. If you want to improve the functionality and durability of your home’s access points, practice these simple maintenance tips.

5 Essential Tips for Door Lock Maintenance

1. Tighten Screws & Plates

Loose locks make it easy for burglars to break through a door with brute force. If you notice that your doorknobs or deadbolts aren’t as tight as they were when your locksmith installed them, check the screws and plates that hold the equipment in place. If they’re loose, you can usually tighten them up with a screwdriver.

2. Adjust Alignment Issues

Temperature changes and gradual wear can throw off a door’s configuration. When a door isn’t hung properly, the strike plate and the bolt might not match up perfectly.

This poor alignment can place added pressure on the equipment’s mechanisms, potentially causing them to fail or stick. If you want to avoid an emergency call to a local locksmith, consider having a local door company adjusting and possibly rehanging the door to realign the components.

3. Remove Debris

If the doorknob, bolt, or plates look dirty, wipe them clean using a cloth and a small amount of household cleaner. Wiping the exterior surfaces will remove debris that could get stuck inside the lock and impair its mechanisms. However, don’t try to clean inside the keyhole, as this may harm the moving parts.

4. Lubricate Annually

Every year, you should spray the keyhole with a small amount of dry lubricant — such as a graphite or Teflon® product. This lubrication will ensure that all lock mechanisms can operate smoothly and quietly. It can also help block moisture in the winter to prevent the components from freezing.  

5. Use Quality Keys

If a door key is worn or damaged, stop using it. A faulty key may harm the tumbler mechanisms inside the lock. If you’ve been using a dull key and your lock sticks, consider having a locksmith replace the system.

 

Although there are many ways to keep your home’s locks in good condition, some problems can’t be addressed by simple maintenance. Fortunately, when these issues arise, Ability Lock & Key can help. Providing home, business, and auto locksmith services throughout the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina, this business is equipped to repair and replace all types of door locks and deadbolts. Visit these professionals online to learn more about their services, or call (336) 406-9241 to schedule assistance.