Properly maintaining your locks and hinges will help them to last longer and perform better. To help ensure your doors open, close and lock just as they should, we’ve put together a quick guide to caring for your locks and hinges.
Installation
First and foremost, it’s essential that your door locks and hinges are properly fitted if they’re going to work as well as they should. Always have a qualified professional fit or repair the doors in your property, this way you can be confident that your doors are hung correctly and your hinges and locks are in the ideal position.
Clean regularly
Regular cleaning is key when it comes to caring for your locks and hinges. Ideally, you should be cleaning your locks and hinges a few times a year. If your doors are regularly exposed to extreme weather, a monthly clean may be required in order to keep them in good condition. If you don’t have time to clean your doors and hinges on a regular basis, try to tackle the task at least twice a year. This should help to keep grease and grime to a minimum and ensure your doors are working as they should.
Use the correct cleaning products
When cleaning your locks and hinges, it’s essential that you use the correct cleaning products. Generally, it’s a good idea to avoid any chemicals that are abrasive or very strong as these can damage the components of your locks and hinges. In most cases, washing detergent, or even just a damp cloth, will be enough to remove a layer of dirt and leave your door fittings gleaming.
Lubrication
As with all mechanical objects with moving parts, doors and hinges need to be lubricated on a fairly regular basis. There are a number of products you can use to ensure everything is running smoothly. One of the simplest ways to lubricate your hinges and locks is to use Vaseline. As @Family_Handyman says “A little petroleum jelly will rid the hinge of that annoying wail. The petroleum jelly works its way into the hinge and adheres well, so it won’t run off and make a mess like oil or other lubricants.”
Avoid using excessive force
As well as regular cleaning and lubrication, it’s also important that you treat your locks and hinges with respect when using your doors. Try to avoid using excessive force and, if your lock becomes stiff, try to fix it rather than force it. The gentler you are with your doors, the longer your hinges and locks will last.
Find out more about caring for your locks and hinges and investing in high-quality doors and windows, by taking a look around our site or getting in touch with a member of our team.