How to Maintain Locks

Locks are designed to be durable and sturdy but over the years they require a little maintenance. Locks may need maintenance due to a rusted mechanism or the plates and latches may become loose. Maintaining a lock is a quick process and worth the investment of time since a badly maintained lock can seize up and become permanently locked.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check the movement of the knob and latches. Intact doorknobs rarely fail. If a knob or latch is sticky, do not use a lubricant to clean but instead use cutting oil to clean the knob. If time allows, remove the knob and wash it in cutting oil, adding a little lightweight oil to the lock itself.

2. Tighten all the screws. This quick and simple act prevents future headaches. Do not over-tighten the screws.

3. Lubricate the door lock. Standard graphite powder can leave a dirty mess to clean up, but there is a cheap, cleaner alternative. Roll a piece of paper into a small tube, or use a drinking straw. Shave down the graphite tip of a pencil onto a sheet of paper. Put the graphite into the tube and gently blow it into the door lock. Use the door's key to adhere the graphite to the locking mechanism.

4. Check the alignment of the strike plate. The strike plate is what the door's bolt strikes when the door closes. As a house settles, the alignment of doors and windows are impacted. Close the door to the point where the door first touches the strike plate. Minor adjustments to the strike plate can make the door lock much smoother.

5. Use mineral oil to clean the lockset. Remove the lockset and clean with mineral oil. Use silicone spray to lubricate the lockset and re-install.

Resources

• Leicestershire Locks and Doors