Top 5 tips to keep your lock working perfectly, reducing the need for a locksmith.
1. Lubrication.
Because your lock is a mechanism it is always a good idea to lubricate, however this needs to be done correctly with the correct products. You should ALWAYS avoid Oil based lubricants and grease. These oftern jam mechanisims because they are thick. Oil based lubricants can be used on hinges. WD40 can be used provided its the Silicone based product.
For locks you should use dry lubricants. These use active elements including molybdenum, silicone, disulfide and PTFE. These lubricants are designed to reduce friction, for example between a key and internal parts of the lock. As a spray they are produced by mixing the active element with alcohol, solvent or water that evaporates after use. For cylinders its advised to use graphite power that is avalable online. Sould you be unsure contact us and we can supply the correct product.
2. Key cutting.
When possible ALWAYS get keys cut using an origional key supplied with the lock.
Key and lock componants wear over time. With origional keys the wear between key and componants is equal so wear between the two is canciled out. This means origional keys will always work the best.
Were possible Abbey Gate always use blanks (an un cut key) produced by the manufacturer of the lock. Blanks from third parties are sometimes (but not always) not as good.
3. Be gentle.
This sounds silly, but use your lock carefully. Slaming doors with night latches can damage componants inside over time. Avoid forceing the key around and if the bolt binds againsed the keep, (the non locking part in the frame) call a locksmith as soon as possible to rectify the problem.
If you have a multi point lock on a UPVC or composit door that requires the handle lifting, hold the handle up when turning the key. This takes pressure off of the internal componants and increases the life span of the MPL.
4. Anything lose.
If any screws are not fully in, not flush or are lose its a simple fix, make sure all screws are in correctly and are not catching on the frame. Should any be missing call a local locksmith if you are not confidet replacing them yourself.
5. What about the door.
If your door is not shutting correctly then this can affect the operation of your lock. If the door is not latching or closing correctly then this will effect the rate of wear and tear on the lock. Use a compitant locksmith to make adjustments to keeps and hinges. With regard to hinges keep them clean and lubricated to avoid squeeks and friction. You can use ether dry or oil based lubricants for hinges.
So there you have it. Five simple steps to keep your lock working perfectly.