Locksmith Mandarin FL Maintenance Tips to Extend Lock’s Longevity

Are you aware that your door locks are working hard to keep your homes secure. They ensure convenience and accessibility while safeguarding the place. This occurs until you begin noticing something is wrong with these locks, according to locksmith Mandarin FL. For instance, a jammed key tells you a story of a lock that can give you a hard lockout time. on the other hand, a stiff turn or loose handle can also cause trouble eventually.

If you don’t take immediate action, that is as soon as you notice trouble, you might need to undergo premature lock replacement. However, if you care for these locks regularly and maintain them, you can ensure their long life. It can also help with smooth operation and reduce the chances of lockouts.

Here are all the tips to maintain the locks and ensure longevity.

·         Lubrication is important within the locks if you want the internal components to keep moving freely. Over time, you will notice a lot of dust, moisture and grime on the internal side of the lock cylinder. This can lead to stiffness or key jamming. You can use a graphite based dry lubricant or a Teflon spray like WD-40 or Tri-Flow for the lubrication. According to locksmith Baymeadows FL, you should always avoid oil-based product as they can attract a lot of dirt and dust. Make sure to spray the lubricant into the keyhole and the latch bolt. Lastly, insert the key and turn it a few times so that the lubricant is evenly spread inside the lock. You should try to lubricate the locks once every six months for the best results.

·         The next part of your audit should include hardware that is loose. You should try to tighten the loose doorknobs, levers and lock plates that generally cause misalignment. In case of misalignment, you would notice that the key may not engage fully with the doorknob as per the locksmith Mandarin FL. You should check the faceplate screws that is along the edge of the door. Check the strike plate screws along the door frame and tighten them. Lastly, you must check interior knob and lever screws. It is important not to overtighten them as that can crack the door surface.

·         The next part to assess during maintenance would be to check the door and lock alignment. In case the door is misaligned, you may notice that the locks don’t function. If the door sags, warps or even swells, which can cause the bolt and strike plate to become misaligned. Firstly, you must check the bolt enters the strike plate properly. In case it rubs along the edge, it indicates misalignment. You should tighten the hinges on the door so that it is raised or lowered properly. Lastly, you can enlarge or reposition the strike plate with a file or chisel. You can stick chalk or lipstick on the bolt and close the door. This will help you check where the mark will hit the strike plate.

·         You must clean the exterior of the lock. There is a likelihood you may notice fingerprints, dust and other aspects that can cause issues on the exterior of the lock. You can use a mild soap solution with a cloth to clean the exterior of the lock. Make sure to dry it thoroughly so that it can prevent spots and rust, according to the locksmith Baymeadows FL.