Locks are used all throughout our homes, workplaces, vehicles, and more every day to keep things safe and secure. While most locks are tough, long lasting, and durable, they still need to be looked after to ensure they’re always operating at their full potential. We’ve put together some expert tips on how to keep your locks clean and avoid deteriorating them quicker than they should. If you’re in need of new locks, Selectlok are your go to compression, latch, metal, T handle lock suppliers and more.
How to look after your locks?
Regular Maintenance
Cut your cleaning job in half when it comes to servicing your locks by keeping up with regular maintenance practices. A lot of locks tend to be exposed to the elements so it’s important they are routinely looked after and protected. Dirt, dust, and grime should be wiped away as much as possible to prevent it from building up or entering the lock mechanism. If your locks seem tampered with in any way it’s important to call an expert immediately. Having your safety and security compromised is never worth the risk.
Force
Most locks will be used repetitively every day. This is naturally going to wear down a lock so it’s important to make sure you aren’t applying unnecessary force when using your locks. Too much force can put strain on the mechanism as well as jam or break it.
Cleaning Materials
Avoid anything too abrasive on your steel locks as they will probably do more harm than good. The same thing goes for chemicals or cleaning products, anything too harsh can seriously damage your lock. Always look for specialty cleaning products and use as per the instructions. Graphite and oil also work well for quick on the spot fixes when your lock needs a little bit of lubrication.
Lubrication
Just like a hinge, locks should be lubricated to keep things operating smoothly. At least once a year you should make sure your locks are given the once over with a specific industry product. Graphite or silicone lubricants usually work best as they won’t attract and stick to dirt and dust. If you’re worried about doing this step yourself, call in an industry expert.
Your Key
Making sure your key is in good condition is going to look after the insides of your lock too. If your key is built up with dirt and grime this will transfer into the mechanism each time you use it. This can quickly deteriorate your lock or damage your key. If you’re getting keys cut you should also always make sure they are cut from the original and not a copy. If this is the case with each cut the key will change and this can damage your lock.
Your Door
If your lock is not working but you can’t seem to see anything wrong with it, check the door. If the door is hung incorrectly it can cause the lock mechanism to stop working. Tightening and adjusting hinges should put your lock and door back in good working order.
Check out our cam locks and flush locking solutions here.