Were you aware that the locks on your home or business must be maintained in order to be effective? Most people don’t bother with lock maintenance, instead choosing to replace their locks completely when they become defective. If you keep up with the maintenance of your locks, the will go the distance and work more efficient for you, saving you money in the long run.
But how exactly do you maintain your buildings locks & doors?
LUBRICATION IS KEY IN LOCK MAINTENANCE
First and foremost, as soon as you start to notice a problem with the lock, be proactive. For example, if you’re finding it hard to turn the key or the key won’t move properly into place, you may want to try lubricating the cylinder.
Lock cylinders are made up of small pins and springs that need to move freely in order to operate correctly. When they start getting stuck, the lock will not function properly and can sometimes even break if you try to force it. Lubricating the keyway of the lock will get the pins and springs moving again and keep your lock in good working order. Apply plenty of lubricant – you really can’t over-lubricate, so more is always going to be better in these situations.
When you have finished, run your key in and out multiple times to help spread the lubricant around. Also you will want to lubricate the bolt or latch on the side of the door. This will help to alleviate any problems with the locking mechanism itself.
HINGE ADJUSTMENTS
Door hinges inevitably wear out because they move every time someone opens the door, sometimes hundreds of times per day. With simple, routine maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of your hinges and save yourself some money down the track.
The most common issue with most hinges is loose screws. Each hinge consists of six to eight screws that can loosen over time. You’ll need a screwdriver or a hand powered driver to tighten each one. Make sure to do both the frame side and the ones attached the door as well.
Tightening these screws will help align the door with the strike, which ensures that the latch or bolt locates correctly in place. It will also sit the door correctly in the frame to stop it from rubbing, which can make a door difficult to open or close. Also lubricating the hinges, will stop any squeaking.
SLIDING DOOR MAINTENANCE
One of the biggest issues that makes a sliding door come off its tracks is a lack of maintenance. Just like other doors and locks around your home, they all require maintenance and regular cleaning.
While you are cleaning the glass, why not clean out the track at the same time.
When the track and rollers are clean and clear of debris, the door should glide easily together.
But if you add in dust, dirt, debris and age, the rollers don’t and won’t roll very easily at all.
That is when you now have a problem!
When you are cleaning the glass, be sure to check the track for dirt and debris. Use your vacuum cleaner to suck out what you can, then use a brush, cloth and cleaning spray to give it a good clean.
If you can see anything stuck or caught up on the wheels, give them a good clean too.
Then once everything has had a good clean, give it all a good spray with lubricant. DO NOT use oil or grease! This will only attract more dirt and dust.