Lubricating Locks

Living on the Central Coast brings plenty of salt air which means higher maintenance and care is required for just about everything around the house, especially locks. Taking care of your locks is no different and salt air will seize up locks, especially if the lock is no being used regularly.

We recommend lubricating your locks a few times a year to keep them in good condition.

In regards to what lubricant should be used, I usually recommend Ezyglide for spraying in the key barrel but in the case where the lock is rarely used, I would recommend an oil based lubricant such as Inox or WD40 as these products will last much longer in the lock. The trade off is that oil based lubricants leave an oil residue which may attract dirt. In the case of living right on the coast, I would definitely use oil-based lubricants in the lock mechanism and inside the key barrel.

If you have a lock that has already seized because and hasn’t been used for a long time, here’s what to do before calling us:

How to Lubricate a Seized Lock

Spray the lock for 1 second with an oil-based lubricant
Wipe away excess spray and leave for 5 minutes
Insert key in and out several times and start to try and turn the key
If no success repeat steps 1, 2 and 3.
If still really tight, try using a pair or pliers to hold the key while turning gently – not too hard
If still no luck it’s time to give us a call 0473 450 000

We service the Central Coast area, so if you are located nearby and need assistance, please give us a call. Our mobile locksmith is fully equipped and ready to go.