Stiff lock, professional solutions

When a stiff lock prevents you from accessing your home or business it is sometimes necessary to call in a locksmith. First of all we must rule out that it is a simple problem of dirt or lubrication, as these are the most common when good maintenance has not been carried out.

What to do when the door key does not turn?

As we have said, the easiest way is to go online and look for a locksmith nearby. If you live in Malaga or any other coastal town such as Fuengirola or Benalmadena, we will be happy to help you.

From experience we know that these are the most common reasons why a door key does not turn:

1. Dirt accumulation: Over time, dust and other debris can build up inside the lock, hindering the smooth operation of the internal components. In such a case, you should try to clean the lock, but if you don’t have the right tools, it is best to call a locksmith.
2. Lack of lubrication: If the lock has not been properly lubricated, its components can rub against each other, causing friction and making it difficult to turn the key. You can buy some synthetic lubricant such as WD-40 and lubricate the lock.
3. Lock wear and tear: When dealing with a lock that has been used a lot, it is normal for the internal components of the lock to wear over time, resulting in a harder and rougher movement when turning the key.
4. Key damage: Perhaps you have not noticed and the key is bent, worn or damaged in some way, making it difficult to fit and turn properly in the lock.
5. Extreme temperatures: In Malaga in summer we can easily reach temperatures of 35 or 40 degrees Celsius. If the door is exposed to direct sunlight, the metal will expand and may block the door. You will have to wait for the door to cool down or pour water on it, for example.
6. Moisture: Moisture can infiltrate the lock and cause rust or corrosion to form on components, making them difficult to move.
7. Alignment problems: If the door frame or lock is misaligned, the key may have difficulty fitting properly and turning easily.
8. Defective lock: In some cases, the lock may have manufacturing defects that make it difficult for it to function properly.

As you can see, there are circumstances in which there is no choice but to call a locksmith. If you want to be on the safe side, call and ask for a quote. To avoid getting ripped off, read these tips on how to avoid locksmith scams in Malaga.

In general, if you have difficulty opening a stiff lock, we recommend that you first try to clean and lubricate it properly. If the problem persists, you may need the help of a professional locksmith to determine the cause and fix the problem properly.

If you are not sure what the problem is, avoid forcing the wrench or applying excessive force. It is easy to break a key and for part of it to remain inside the lock, and then the solution will be much more expensive.

Why grease the door lock?

When the lock is sticky and does not allow the key to turn, one of the most common solutions is synthetic lubricants such as WD-40. This product was developed with the intention of preventing metal corrosion, but eventually positioned itself as one of the most widely used lock lubricants and cleaners.

You may not know the history, but the name WD-40 comes from the initials of the words “Water Displacement, 40th formula”. This product was developed in 1953 by one Norm Larsen, a chemist with the Rocket Chemical Co. WD-40 CompanyThe objective was to create a compound that would protect and displace water from metal surfaces and thus prevent corrosion.

The company conducted numerous experiments to find the right formula and finally, on the fortieth attempt (hence the number “40” in the name), they achieved the blend that became the product known as WD-40. Therefore, it is worth trying things forty times if necessary.

But let’s not digress, the fact is that it is very important to grease any metal gear, especially if it is going to be exposed to all kinds of inclemencies. Any locksmith expert, when faced with a door with a stiff lock or where it is difficult to turn the key, the first thing he will do is to examine that it is not obstructed and the second thing to lubricate.

How to grease the door lock?

In general, the process of greasing the door lock is not complicated at all. You may not know some of these methods, but we want to share them with you because they can be of great help:

1. Use powdered graphite: you read that right, with the same material that is used to make the tip of pencils we can lubricate the doors. This is a very popular and simple method, as all you have to do is add the product to the lock. This product comes in a container with an applicator that will allow the powder to adhere to the inside of the lock.
2. Use a pencil: In the absence of graphite powder, use a pencil. The process basically consists of rubbing the key with the lead and then inserting it into the lock. With this simple trick we will be able to make the key turn and the lock work.
3. Use spray lubricant: this option is the most common nowadays. Products such as the one mentioned above are perfect for this type of case. It is not only easy to use, but can also be easily found in hardware stores and DIY centers.
4. Use petroleum jelly oil or grease: these are good lubricants and can get you out of trouble, but be careful because some lubricants are a problem in the medium and long term because they also trap dirt and harden the lock again.

As you can see, it is not a difficult process to carry out, as the methods available to do so are super fast. That said, if you do not have the necessary means or you think you can make the situation worse, contact a professional locksmith in Malaga. Call us today and we will come to your aid.