Most lock failures give warning signs long before they fail. A little maintenance prevents the 6 AM surprise.
Clean and lubricate
Use a dry graphite or PTFE lock lubricant, not oil, which collects dust. A short spray in the keyway, then work the key a few times.
Check the strike
If you have to push or lift the door to lock it, the latch is fighting the strike. Adjusting the strike or hinges takes minutes; ignoring it wears out the lock. Bigger alignment problems are door lock repair jobs.
Watch your keys
Bent or worn keys damage pins. Make a fresh copy from your best original with key duplication, or have one cut by code through key cutting.
Know when to replace
Loose cylinders, grinding, or keys that only work at a certain angle mean it's time for a lock change. Businesses with heavy traffic should check panic bars and closers too.
Maintenance tips from Choice City Locksmith, serving homes and businesses in Northern Colorado, including Severance.
Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.