Lock Maintenance

Regular maintenance extends the life of a lock by years and prevents unexpected failures. Follow these simple steps.

1. Cleaning (every 6 months)

Use a soft cloth to clean around the cylinder. Avoid damp cloths that can cause rust. On exterior doors, remove dirt and salt (especially in winter).

2. Lubrication (once a year)

What to use:

• ✅ Graphite powder — best for the cylinder. Does not stick, does not collect dust.
• ✅ Teflon spray (PTFE) — suitable for cylinders and the bolt mechanism.
• ❌ WD-40 — NOT suitable for long-term use! It dries out and becomes sticky.
• ❌ Vegetable oil — damages the cylinder.

How to: Drop graphite powder into the keyhole, insert the key and turn several times. Also lubricate the visible moving parts of the bolt mechanism.

3. Check the bolt (every year)

The door should close without force. If you have to pull the door hard to close it, the handle or frame has shifted — this wears out the lock. Call us for a frame measurement.

4. Key duplicates

Keep at least one spare copy in a trusted location (a relative, a notary). Do not keep a spare key under the doormat — that is the first place a burglar looks.

5. When to replace the lock?

• The key is hard to insert/remove despite lubrication
• The bolt does not engage smoothly
• The lock is older than 10–15 years
• A key has been lost or the residents have changed