Lock lubrication in Sidmouth
Looking for professional lock lubrication help in Sidmouth? Hembury Contracting provides reliable misc services across Sidmouth and surrounding areas.
Price Guide
£60
Typical Duration
30-45 mins
Location
Sidmouth
Stiff locks lubricated properly using graphite or PTFE spray - not WD40 which makes things worse long-term. We clean out accumulated debris, apply the correct lubricant, and test operation until keys turn smoothly again.
Forcing stiff locks damages mechanisms and can break keys off inside. Proper lubrication with the right products restores smooth operation and prevents wear. Five minutes per lock now saves replacing mechanisms later.
What's Included
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Lock inspection | Check mechanism condition and operation |
| Debris removal | Clear dirt, old grease, and key deposits |
| Proper lubrication | Apply graphite or PTFE dry lubricant |
| Operation testing | Work lubricant in and test smooth action |
| Multiple locks | Service up to 3 locks in one visit |
Common Lock Types
| Lock Type | Servicing Details | Response to Lube |
|---|---|---|
| Yale/cylinder | Spray into keyhole, work key in/out | Usually excellent |
| Mortice lock | Lubricate both keyhole and latch mechanism | Good if not corroded |
| UPVC multipoint | Service cylinder, rollers, and hooks | Variable - may need adjustment |
| Padlocks | Clean and lube shackle and cylinder | Excellent for quality locks |
| Euro cylinder | Spray into keyway, cycle lock | Usually very responsive |
Typical Scenarios
| Issue | Cause | Solution | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stiff key turning | Dirt and old grease buildup | Clean and lubricate | Smooth operation restored |
| Key won't insert fully | Debris in keyway | Clear and spray graphite | Key goes in easily |
| Crunchy feeling | Metal particles from key wear | Clean thoroughly, lube properly | Smooth, quiet operation |
| Seasonal stiffness | Moisture/weather on external locks | Service twice yearly | Consistent operation year-round |
Why Choose Us for Lock lubrication in Sidmouth?
Restores smooth key operation
Prevents lock damage from forcing
Uses correct lubricants (not WD40)
Extends lock lifespan
What to Expect
1. Assessment & Inspection We test each lock's current operation, identify which ones need attention, check for damage or wear beyond lubrication needs, and explain what we'll do.
2. Professional Servicing We spray cleaner to dissolve old grease and debris, allow it to drain out, apply proper graphite or PTFE lubricant, work it into the mechanism by cycling the lock multiple times.
3. Testing & Handover We test each lock thoroughly for smooth operation, demonstrate the improvement, explain ongoing maintenance, and advise on any locks that need more than just lubrication.
Our Sidmouth Service Coverage
We cover Sidmouth and a 30-mile radius from Exeter, meaning you get local service with the backing of an established business. Whether you're in the centre of Sidmouth or in the surrounding villages, we're here to help.
Good to Know
**Right lubricants**: Dry graphite powder or spray, PTFE (Teflon) spray, or specialist lock lubricant. All stay clean and don't gum up. **Wrong products**: WD40, 3-in-1 oil, general purpose oil, grease. They attract dirt and make locks worse over time. **Frequency**: Annual service for internal locks, twice yearly for external locks (before winter, before summer). More often in coastal areas due to salt exposure. **When lubrication won't help**: Badly worn mechanisms, broken springs, corroded internals, misaligned doors. These need lock repair or replacement, not just lube. **UPVC door locks**: Multipoint locks have rollers, hooks, and shootbolts as well as the cylinder. All moving parts benefit from lubrication. Hinges need servicing too. **Mortice locks**: Spray into keyhole but also lubricate the latch mechanism from the edge of the door - follower and spring benefit from graphite. **Padlocks**: External padlocks seize regularly - lubricate both keyway and shackle spring mechanism. Consider replacing cheap padlocks with weather-resistant models. **Key condition**: Worn or bent keys make locks feel stiff even when well-lubricated. Check key condition and get copies cut if originals are worn. **Door alignment**: Sometimes stiff locks are actually door alignment issues - the lock's fighting the door position. We'll spot this and advise. **Prevention**: Regular lubrication is cheaper than emergency locksmith callouts when locks seize completely and keys break off inside.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lock lubrication in Sidmouth
How much does lock lubrication cost?
Lock lubrication is £60 for up to 3 locks (front door, back door, garage, etc.). This includes proper lock lubricant, cleaning debris from mechanisms, and testing smooth operation. Additional locks are £15 each.
What causes locks to become stiff?
Dirt, dust, and old grease build up inside locks over time. Keys deposit metal particles. Moisture causes corrosion. External locks face weather exposure. All this makes mechanisms stiff and keys hard to turn.
Why not just use WD40?
WD40 is a cleaner/water displacer, not a lubricant. It initially frees stiff locks but then attracts dirt and gums up worse than before. Proper lock lubricants (graphite or PTFE) stay clean and don't attract debris.
How often should locks be lubricated?
Annual lubrication prevents most lock problems. External locks benefit from twice-yearly service (spring and autumn). If keys start feeling stiff or crunchy, that's your sign to service them before they seize completely.
Lock lubrication Also Available In:
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01392 964094Request Online QuotePricing for Sidmouth
* Same rates for all locations in our service area
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