By By First Time Homeowner
Whether you’re a first-time homeowner, or simply facing challenges with maintaining your home, here’s a tip that can help when it comes to lubricating sticky door locks.
Stubborn, sticky locks can be aggravating, but using the wrong method to unstick those locks can lead to even more frustration. While spray lubricants may work well, they can be messy. They can leave a residue on the door knobs, trap dirt inside the lock, and make a greasy mess as it drips out everywhere.
A powdered graphite is a much better choice, as long as you don’t use too much at once. Just insert the tip of the container into the keyhole and gently squeeze to distribute a small amount, then use your key to work the graphite into the lock.
Powdered graphite is readily available at most hardware stores, but if you have a hard time finding any, just use a #2 pencil and liberally color both sides of your key before putting it into the lock and working it in and out. Since pencil lead is made from graphite, you should get similar results and no greasy mess! Lubricating sticky door locks are a simple way to keep your locks secure.