A LITTLE CARE MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that regular care often prevents unnecessary problems. This applies to many things—your car, your kettle, and most certainly, your door locks. A small amount of attention now and then can help keep everything in good working order and save you from those late-night locksmith calls we’d all rather avoid.
In this post, I’ll share a few simple but effective tips to help you look after your locks. These are practical things you can do yourself, with no fuss. Think of it as a quiet bit of home maintenance that brings peace of mind..
SIMPLE STEPS TO KEEP YOUR LOCKS IN TOP CONDITION
1. Keep Locks Clean and Dry
Dust and moisture are no friends to metal. Gently wiping down your locks every month or so with a soft, dry cloth helps prevent grime from building up. If your door is exposed to the elements, you might do this a little more often—especially in Cornwall’s damp winters.
2. Use the Right Lubricant—Sparingly
A little lubricant goes a long way. Use a graphite-based lubricant or a silicone spray (never oil-based WD-40) to keep the internal parts moving freely. Apply sparingly into the keyhole and operate the lock a few times to distribute it evenly.
3. Check Door Alignment Regularly
Over time, doors can sag slightly, especially wooden ones exposed to seasonal changes. If you notice the door dragging or the lock becoming stiff, it might be an alignment issue. Left unchecked, this can put pressure on the lock mechanism and shorten its lifespan.
4. Handle Keys with Care
Bent or damaged keys can quickly wear down the inside of your lock. If your key looks worse for wear—or you’ve had to force it recently—it’s worth cutting a fresh copy from the original, not from the damaged version.
5. Keep an Eye (and Ear) Out for Changes
Locks tend to give us subtle signals when something’s not right. If it’s become noisy, stiff, or just feels “off,” that’s your cue to look into it. Often, catching small issues early can prevent a complete breakdown.
STEADY CARE FOR LASTING SECURITY
Locks, like many things in life, benefit from gentle, regular care. These small steps take only minutes but can extend the life of your locks and help you avoid the stress of sudden failures or emergency call-outs.
A well-maintained lock not only performs better but also provides the quiet confidence that your home is secure. If you’re unsure whether your locks need a service—or you’d simply like a bit of guidance—a local locksmith will be happy to lend a hand.
Have a question about a lock at home or a tip of your own to share? Do feel free to leave a comment. I’d be pleased to hear from you.
