In order to protect your house or place of business, locks must be reliable because they act as the first line of defence. Locks may become less effective at securing your property as time goes on, absorb damage, or otherwise deteriorate. The safety and security of your property depend on you being able to recognise the signs that a lock needs to be replaced. The critical symptoms that imply it’s time to think about getting new locks are covered in this guide.
Turning Key Issues: An apparent sign that your lock may warrant replacement is when you face increasing challenges turning the key. If unlocking the door requires extra force or repeated jiggling, it indicates potential wear or damage to the lock’s internal mechanisms. Neglecting this signal may lead to a lockout situation.
Key Breaks Inside the Lock: When a key breaks within the lock, it’s not just the key that’s impacted; the lock itself may suffer compromise. Trying to extract the broken key or persisting in using the lock without resolving the issue can lead to additional complications.
Oxidation and Corrosion: Locks located outside are susceptible to weather-related conditions, resulting in the development of oxidation and corrosion. Oxidation can diminish the lock’s overall strength, making it more susceptible to tampering or potential break-ins. When you detect signs of rust or significant corrosion on your locks, it’s a clear indication that replacement is in order.
Unsecured Lockset: An unsecured lockset, one that feels loose or unstable, is a strong indicator of internal damage or wear. It’s of utmost importance to address this issue promptly, as an unsecured lockset can become easier to manipulate or bypass.
Worn or Damaged Keyway: Inspect the keyway, which is the part of the lock where the key is inserted. If you notice signs of wear, such as rounded edges or visible damage, it’s an indication that the lock is nearing the end of its lifespan and may not provide adequate security.
Several Key Copies in Existence: If you’ve handed out several copies of your keys over the years, you may no longer have command over who possesses them now. To secure your property, consider either replacing the locks or rekeying them to render previous keys useless.
Obsolete or Inadequate Locks: Aging locks may not offer the same level of security as their modern counterparts, leaving them open to picking and other forced entry techniques. It’s advisable to transition to locks that incorporate advanced security features like anti-pick and anti-bump technology.
Unlawful Entry or Attempted Unlawful Entry: If your property has been subjected to unlawful entry or an attempted unlawful entry, it is paramount to replace any compromised locks immediately. Intruders may have caused damage or diminished the functionality of the locks during their unauthorized access attempt.
Lost or Stolen Keys: In the event of losing your keys or having them stolen, it’s crucial to change the locks or rekey them to prevent unauthorized entry. This is especially important if your keys had any labels indicating your address or other identifying information.
Components that aren’t working: If the latch or the deadbolt, or any other lock component, isn’t working properly or has obvious damage, it needs to be replaced. Your security is put at risk by a broken lock.
Debris Obstructing the Keyway: The keyway may occasionally be blocked by dust, debris, or even the fragments of broken keys. An internal degradation of the lock may be the cause if a fast cleaning doesn’t fix the problem.
Having Trouble Locking the Door: Finding it tough to ensure the door is securely locked? Internal problems with the lock could be the culprit. A poorly engaging lock exposes your property to risks.
Outdoor Locks Showing Signs of Overuse: Exterior door locks that are frequently used are more likely to deteriorate quickly. Consider replacing worn-out components with more durable ones if you notice evidence of excessive wear, such as worn-out finishes or components that are no longer secure.