Locks are designed to thrive through years and years of use. However, if you want to get the most out of your locks, you will need to help them along a bit. In other words, if you want to maximize the duration and functionality of your locks, it is wise to perform a bit of maintenance from time to time.

The question is, what does lock maintenance in Arlington Heights entail? There is quite a bit involved with lock maintenance. Below, we will discuss four lock maintenance tips for you to utilize.

1. Maintain the Positioning of Your Doors

One of the keys to maintaining the functionality of a lock is to maintain the functionality of its corresponding door. In particular, you should maintain the door’s alignment.

When a door becomes misaligned, it causes its lockset to become misaligned as well, placing undue stress on both the latch and the locking mechanism. Over time, this stress can lead to the severe deterioration of the lock.

This is why it’s important that you pay close attention to the functionality of your door. If you feel it dragging or sticking when being opened or closed, it is likely misaligned and should be fixed.

2. Lubricate Your Locks

The interiors of locks possess a number of moving parts. These moving parts work in harmony with one another, creating slight friction each and every time they’re adjusted. While this friction isn’t substantial, it can cause these parts to wear down over time.

Fortunately, there’s a way to reduce friction between the moving parts in a lock. All you have to do is provide lubrication every year or so.

There are a number of different ways to lubricate a lock. However, the most common method is to spray lubricant into the keyhole and turn the corresponding key back and forth a few times. When purchasing a lubricant, we recommend looking for a Teflon, dry, or graphite version.

3. Clean Your Locks

Like all things in this world, locks need to be cleaned from time to time. Failure to clean locks on a consistent basis could result in permanent residual buildup, irreparably damaging the aesthetic of your lock for the rest of its time.

There are two primary aspects to cleaning a lock. First, you should remove weather damage caused by corrosion and oxidation. To do this, you can apply a rust remover, let it sit for around 10 minutes, and then scrub it off with a piece of sandpaper.

The second aspect involves simple cleaning. You can simply wet a rag with soapy water and give the lock a thorough wipe-down.

4. Inspect Strike Plates

The last aspect of lock maintenance is strike plate inspection. Strike plates are held in place with screws. As time passes, these screws can come undone, not only compromising the security capabilities of the corresponding lock, but causing it undue wear and tear as well.

For this reason, every month or so, you’re advised to take a good look at your strike plates to ensure that their screws are flush against the side of the door. If they’re not, they’ll need to be driven further in.

Utilize A Professional Locksmith in Arlington Heights

Need help with your locks? Looking for professional locksmith in Arlington Heights? The locksmiths with Suburban Door Check and Lock Service are the people to see.

Our team has repaired and replaced thousands of locks throughout the Arlington Heights area, helping home and business owners to optimize the functionality of their properties. Regardless of the types of locks you have on your property, we can help you.

Contact us today to discuss your needs!