Over time, a door lock in your house stiffens up as dirt and grime work their way in. If you are finding a squeaky doorknob or your key staggers while inserting it into the keyway, it is time to lubricate the door lock.
A rough operating lock can cause many issues, such as a higher probability of breaking your key off in the keyway.
To lubricate a lock, you will need a silicone-based or graphite-based lubricant. Silicone lubricant is a good choice for locks that are used outdoors, as it is resistant to water and will not freeze. Graphite lock lubricant is a good choice for locks that are used indoors, as it is less messy and will not attract dirt and dust. Before lubricating the lock, make sure to clean it thoroughly with a dry cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Then, apply a small amount of lubricant to the keyway and the locking mechanism. You can use a small brush or a Q-tip to apply the lubricant. Be sure the lubricant moves into all parts of the lock, including the pins and tumblers. Once you have lubricated the lock, test it a few times to ensure that it is operating smoothly. Remember to use a sparing amount of lubricant, as too much can attract dirt and debris, which can make the lock harder to operate over time.
Here are some other easy lubrication options to fix your problem.
Table of Contents
- Teflon Dry Lubricant
- Teflon Aerosol Lubricant
- Powdered Dry Graphite
- Graphited Lock Fluid
- WD-40 Specialist Lubricant
- De-Icer and Lubricant
- Non-Toxic Mineral-Based Lubricant
- Synthetic Oil with Syncolon (PTFE)
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Teflon Dry Lubricant
Teflon Dry Lubricant is a lubricant used in various residential, industrial, and automotive applications. It is a dry lubricant, meaning it does not require any oil or grease to be used in combination with it. It is composed of a unique blend of fluoropolymer resins and other proprietary ingredients, which gives it many benefits over traditional lubricants.
Teflon Dry Lubricant has very low friction and therefore reduces wear and tear on machinery parts. It is also resistant to water, dirt, dust, and other contaminants, which makes it a great choice for use in corrosive environments. Due to these reasons, this lubricant is known as one of the best lubricants for door locks.
Teflon Aerosol Lubricant
Teflon aerosol lubricant is a type of lubricant that contains microscopic particles of Teflon, a synthetic fluoropolymer. It is applied as a spray and forms a thin film on the surface of the object being lubricated. Teflon aerosol lubricant is effective in reducing friction and wear and is resistant to water, heat, and most chemicals. It is commonly used on moving parts, such as hinges, gears, and pulleys, and is ideal for use in environments where oil or grease-based lubricants are not suitable. Teflon aerosol lubricant is also non-toxic and safe for use on food-processing equipment. It is easy to apply and dries quickly, making it a convenient choice for lubricating hard-to-reach areas.
Powdered Dry Graphite
Powdered dry graphite is also known as graphite powder made from finely ground graphite, a naturally occurring form of carbon. It is a popular choice for lubricating locks, as it is highly effective in reducing friction and wear. It is also resistant to heat and water, making it ideal for use in outdoor or wet environments. When applied to a lock, the graphite particles fill in the spaces between the moving parts, creating a smooth and lubricated surface. This graphite powder for locks is easy to apply, as it can be poured or dusted directly onto the lock mechanism. It is non-toxic and safe for use on most surfaces, although it can be messy and may leave a black residue.
Graphited Lock Fluid
Graphited lock fluid is a type of door lock lubricant, made from a mixture of graphite, a naturally occurring form of carbon, and a carrier fluid, such as oil or water. The graphite particles provide lubrication and help to reduce friction and wear, while the carrier fluid helps to suspend the graphite and make it easier to apply. Graphited lock fluid is often preferred over other types of lubricants because it is effective in a wide range of temperatures and can be used on both indoor and outdoor locks. It is also resistant to water and does not attract dirt or dust, which can help to keep locks clean and functioning smoothly. Graphited lock fluid is easy to apply and dries quickly, leaving a thin, lubricating film on the lock mechanism.
WD-40 Specialist Lubricant
WD-40 Specialist Lubricant is a multi-purpose lubricant that is commonly used to loosen stuck parts, protect the metal from rust, and reduce friction and wear. It is made from a proprietary blend of oils, solvents, and other ingredients and is applied as a spray. WD-40 Specialist Lubricant is effective at penetrating and lubricating small crevices and hard-to-reach areas, making it a popular choice for lubricating locks. It is also resistant to water and can help to prevent rust and corrosion. In addition to its lubricating properties, WD-40 Specialist Lubricant can also be used to clean and protect a variety of surfaces, including metal, plastic, and rubber. It is easy to apply and dries quickly, leaving a thin, protective film on the surface.
De-Icer and Lubricant
De-icer and lubricant is a product specifically designed for use on locks and other mechanisms that may become frozen or stuck due to ice and cold weather. It is typically a combination of a de-icing agent and a lubricant and is applied as a spray or liquid. The de-icing agent helps to melt ice and loosen stuck parts, while the lubricant provides lubrication and helps to reduce friction and wear. De-icer and lubricant are effective at preventing and correcting problems caused by ice and cold temperatures, such as frozen locks and sticking doors and windows. It is also useful for preventing future ice build-up and ensuring the smooth operation of locks and other mechanisms. De-icer and lubricant are easy to apply and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including metal, plastic, and rubber.
Non-Toxic Mineral-Based Lubricant
A non-toxic mineral-based lubricant is a type of lubricant that is made from minerals and does not contain any toxic or harmful chemicals. It is a safe and natural alternative to traditional lubricants that may contain ingredients such as parabens, glycerin, and petroleum. Non-toxic mineral-based lubricants are suitable for use on all parts of the body, including intimate areas, and are gentle on the skin. They are also long-lasting and do not need to be reapplied as frequently as water-based lubricants. Additionally, they are safe to use with condoms and do not cause any damage to latex. Non-toxic mineral-based lubricants are a great choice for those who are looking for a natural, safe, and effective lubricant option.
Synthetic Oil with Syncolon (PTFE)
Synthetic oil with Syncolon (PTFE) is a type of lubricant that is made from synthetic base oils and contains a high amount of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), also known as Syncolon. PTFE is a synthetic fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethylene and is known for its extremely low coefficient of friction, high-temperature resistance, and chemical stability. These properties make it an ideal additive for lubricants, particularly in high-performance applications where extreme temperatures and/or heavy loads are present. Synthetic oil with Syncolon (PTFE) can provide excellent lubrication and protection for moving parts, helping to extend the life of machinery and equipment. It is also resistant to breakdown and evaporation, making it longer-lasting than traditional lubricants. However, it is important to note that synthetic oils with PTFE should not be used in certain applications, such as wet clutch systems in motorcycles, as it can cause slippage and potentially damage the clutch.
Conclusion
To lubricate a lock, there are a variety of lubricants that can be used, including graphite powder, Teflon aerosol silicone aerosol spray, WD-40, and more. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the one that is most appropriate for the lock and the situation. Properly lubricating a lock is essential to keeping it in good working order and preventing costly repairs. If you’re having a hard time fixing your lock even after applying lubricant, Prozz is here to help you. It is an online platform that allows you to search for and hire local service locksmiths to work on a project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my deadbolt hard to turn?
Dirt and dust can sometimes find their way into a lock and build up over time. This can clog up the locking mechanism making it difficult to turn.
What is the best lubricant for door locks?
Most locksmiths recommended Teflon Based Lubricants are the best lubricant for locks because they’re “hydrophobic”, which means liquids don’t like to stick to it and they are chemically inserted at any temperature.
Is olive oil ok to use as a lubricant to fix the lock?
If you are in a rush and need to remedy a sticky lock, the most convenient way is with olive oil. This also works very well for pesky mailbox keys. However, oil isn’t always the best long-term fix due to its propensity to catch grime and dust.