Leveraging your KeySmart tools for lock maintenance

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KeySmart tools are vital when you need to open your lock for regular maintenance like lubrication. You also get handy tools like a flashlight that can help you should you have a flat tire.

If you are like me, purchasing a lock is as simple as selecting a lock, installing it and you are safe. But, did you know that locks operate differently. For a long time, I did not take any particular interest in my locks maintenance. I take my car for regular service but not my locks. This changed when we come home late at night with my wife only to fumble with the lock for hours. We could not break the door and the more we tried opening it,the more the key teeth wore out. Our neighbor – happens to be a locksmith – sort us out,and he gave us some important tips for lock maintenance.

Noisy doors

The first sign that your locks are in need of maintenance is when they make a creaking sound whenever you try to open them. Locks have an estimated lifespan of up to 7 years,but this is only when they are well maintained. Inspect the hinges for any loose screws. If you have a garage door be on the look out for fault cables and pulleys. Depending on the age of the door it could be time to replace your existing locking system with a new one. Door lock maintenance is a simple process but if lack the time for it you can always call experts – this is the case for garage doors that are bulky and complicated.

Making duplicate keys

The first thing you need to do whenever you have a new lock installed is to make duplicate keys. Duplicate keys come in handy when you lose your keys. It also should be noted that the key teeth often wear off faster than the lock. With time you may start struggling with existing keys,and this is where your duplicate keys come in handy.

Door Preparation

Your locking system is as good as your door. If you have a poor quality door, then it makes it easy for thugs to break in even though there is a lock. When installing your lock ensure that the door is setproperly. If the door and lock are not even, it will put pressure on either and with time you may find yourself stuck inside your house.

Longer screws help keep the lock firm and prevent sagging doors. Some KeySmart tools come with screwdrivers,and you can use this to tighten loose screws.

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Cleaning and lubricating your locks

It is not your door only that needs regular cleaning; your door locks need wiping off dirt with damp cloth. Avoid using abrasives as this destroys the door locks finishing. Occasionally use graphite lubricants to keep the locks’ moving parts operational. Once you have your lubricant, spray a little of it into the keyhole and then open and close the lock with the key. This should reduce any resistance to the key system. If you have hard the lock for many years it is recommended that you remove the lock and lubricate it. Avoid using petroleum products as lubricants.

Conclusion

The lock system helps keep your personal property secure. A properly installed lock will last you for more than ten years when well maintained. The first thing that you should ensure is that you have a duplicate set of keys for all your important doors. This should then be stored somewhere different. The moment you hear a creaking sound from your door, then it is time to lubricate the hinges and locks. Avoid using petroleum-based products – highly inflammable. Most people opt for graphite based lubricants. For more complex locking systems – like a garage door – it would be prudent to call an expert. This will reduce the chances of injury.