Lock Care
Caring for Locks and Cylinders
Most locks mechanisms, whilst robust and secure against tampering and attack, contain a large number of small, sensitive parts which overtime can develop impurities and incidental damage that can lead to the overall failure of the lock. So regular maintenance of lock mechanisms is vital to ensure the maximum longevity of such systems.
The fundamental mistake many people make in the maintenance of Australian Mortice Lock cylinder mechanisms and Residential Lock cylinder mechanisms is the lubrication and removal of cylinder components. Under no circumstances should any fluid or aerosol lubricant be used within the cylinder mechanism itself. Only powdered graphite should be used. If fluid is introduced into a cylinder mechanism the relative height of each pin can be altered enough to effect the overall operation of the cylinder. Grinding, catching and internal wear can result in gradual degradation of the cylinder components.
Under standard operating conditions, maintenance and cleaning of cylinder mechanisms should be carried out once every 12 months or when there are signs of roughness when inserting or retracting the key. In harsh or high traffic environments, a 6 month maintenance schedule is suggested, with further cleaning if required.
To clean and properly maintain cylinders, remove any dirt, grime and salt deposits on and around the end of the cylinder barrel, and apply a small amount of powdered graphite to the key blade. Insert and remove the key into the lock barrel 3-4 times or until the action of the motion feels smoother. Clean the appropriate key and test the mechanism. Graphite powder is available from all major hardware stores, OEM cylinder manufacturers and locksmiths.
Caring for Latch bolt Mechanisms
Internal latch bolts and similar hardware contain numerous moving parts that must be properly maintained and cleaned to ensure their longevity and effective use. It is suggested that latch bolt mechanisms be removed and maintained once every 12 months to increase service life and maintain smooth action. Mechanisms should be sprayed with and aerosol lubricant to coat the internal parts.
In highly corrosive or demanding environments it is recommended that the spindles and cams should be also sprayed with a lubricant or smeared with white lithium grease for protection for a longer protection period.
We recommend that your locks only be serviced by a qualified locksmith. If desired, our Locksmiths can assist.
Call our friendly locksmiths directly on +613 9300 8899 or email us.
No items in archive.
About Designer Doorware's Capabilities
Designer Doorware designs and manufactures superior quality door furniture and architectural hardware including hinges, door handles and door knobs, door pull handles, sliding door hardware, door hardware accessories, door closers, locks, cabinet door handles, and bathroom accessories. Our products offer timeless qualities to suit a variety of architectural styles and budgets, with thousands of product options and combinations to choose from.
If you are looking for something extra special, our custom design service can create hardware to complement any commercial or residential project, no matter how unique your requirements. We regularly work with Architects, Designers, Developers and Builders on award winning projects of all sizes across Australia, Asia-Pacific and the USA. With know-how gained through many years of specialised design experience, a well-established international network and best-of-breed manufacturing capabilities, we can operate to short lead times and quickly deliver doorware and accessories anywhere in the world.
Our new Selector Tool makes it easy to visualise, compare and select architectural hardware online. You can review a wide range of products, find related products, get tailored specification sheets, make them into a PDF book and request a quote for your specified products. We also make doorware selection easier with customer services that incorporate interior design advice, specifying, scheduling and more. Contact our friendly, highly qualified team to help create that final complement to your project.
