How to Lubricate Door Locks on Keyed Locks and Deadbolts

While high-quality door locks will work with minimal issues, performing basic maintenance should be essential to your security. Locks can stiffen or malfunction over time as dirt, grime, and weather take their toll. Lubricating your door regularly helps improve longevity, keep your lock performing at its best, and give you peace of mind. Here’s how to easily lubricate your deadbolt locks.

Remove Dirt and Dust

Before you start lubricating your deadbolt locks, you will want to remove any dirt, dust, and debris that has built up. Using an air compressor, blow the pressurized air from the can through the lock.

Dry Graphite Lubricant

When learning how to lubricate door locks, you’ll find that there are many different lubricants that you can use, from fluids to dry lubricants. Powdered dry graphite is a great option.

Lubricate the deadbolt by placing your key in the graphite, then in and out of the lock; turn the key clockwise and counterclockwise to distribute the graphite evenly. Graphite lubricant can also be found in the form of a fluid for a quicker process.

PTFE-based Lubricant

PTFE lubricants like Teflon lubricant can come in a dry form or as an aerosol with a straw attached. Many prefer the latter option because it’s easier to apply to locks. Mastering how to lubricate door locks with this option is simple: place the straw inside the deadbolt and spray the lubricant a few times directly into the lock. Next, insert your key and turn it a few times clockwise and counterclockwise so the lubricant covers the entire surface of the locking mechanism. Remove the key and any residue, then let the lubricant dry. Ideal for all climates, this long-lasting lubricant will also help repel dirt, dust, and chemicals.

WD-40 Specialist Lubricant

Another simple solution to the question of how to lubricate your deadbolt locks is WD-40 Specialist Lubricant, which helps to repel dirt and dust from your lock. Though regular WD-40 can be used as a temporary lubricant to fix a stiff lock, it shouldn’t be used for routine lock maintenance. When used for an extended period of time, it begins to attract dirt and dust and dry it up – which can ultimately cause buildup in your lock.

When to Lubricate Your Locks

You know how to lubricate your door locks, but how often should you lubricate them? The answer: it varies, depending on environmental conditions and the type of lubricant you’re using. Generally, you should try and lubricate your lock about twice per year. However, the frequency could increase in freezing conditions, with prolonged times of precipitation, or if you live in a coastal location, as salt air can cause corrosion.

Maintain the Efficiency of Your Locks

Learning how to lubricate your door locks is a crucial aspect of ensuring the efficiency and longevity of your door locks. Whether you need to fix a deadbolt lock, perform maintenance, or replace your locks, the passionate experts at Door Locks Direct are here to help guide you. Shop now or give us a call to learn more!