It might not even cross your mind, but just like any other mechanical apparatus in your home, your locks can benefit from regular maintenance. The wear and tear from daily use, humidity and weather fluctuation on Delmarva, and time can take a toll on your home’s door locks.
To make sure you’re getting the most out of your locks, use these tips from our R.J. Lock & Security experts, who have served the Eastern Shore of Maryland for over 30 years.
Maintenance Tips: Home Door Locks near Ocean City, MD
Door lock maintenance helps keep your home safe and secure, while also saving you money from possible repairs needed in the future.
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Make Sure the Door is Level
There’s little point in preserving the lock if the door itself is not properly hung or secured in the doorway. Check for a uniform gap across the top and bottom of the door with the doorframe, and make sure the door hinge screws are doing their job.
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Check the Deadbolt’s Movement
The deadbolt should be aligned properly, and able to extend completely. Without the full extension of the deadbolt, your home is not secured. Having to push, slam, or pull on the door in order to accurately lock the deadbolt is a sign that something needs to be adjusted. Reach out to the R.J. Lock professionals in Ocean City, MD to help you identify the problem!
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Clean the Door Lock With Mild Soap
Maintenance of the external lock is simple and can be cleaned using a damp cloth, or mild soap. Be careful to avoid strong chemical cleaners. Maintaining the inside of the lock with lubrication is another important factor for prolonging the lock’s performance. Carefully remove any debris while lubricating for the best results.
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Use Original Keys for Copies
The key you use every day will wear out much faster than the door. When a key starts to wear out you want to replace it, but each copy adds a tiny bit of variation that can keep growing with each copy. Try to set aside the original key and make copies from it specifically for the best quality keys to use in your lock.
What can a locksmith do to help me maintain my home’s door locks?
The team at R.J. Lock & Security in Ocean City, MD can assess all of the locks in your home, as well as clean and oil lock systems as needed.
Do I need a contractor or a locksmith to fix my door if my lock won’t work?
You likely need both. If your door is the main source of the problem, a contract can help you fix, level, or replace the door. If you can level the existing door, it’s still best to have your locks inspected by the locksmiths at R.J. Lock & Security, because of the potential damage from the uneven door.
Looking for a trusted locksmith near Ocean City, MD? Contact R.J. Lock & Security today!