Locks are an important part of keeping our homes and businesses secure, but they’re frequently subjected to the worst of the weather. Most of us don’t give them a second thought until something goes awry. One of the most prevalent, yet neglected, reasons that locks don’t work as well as they should, is the weather.
Cold snaps, rainy air, and showers can all affect lock function. The silver lining: A couple of simple habits can keep most issues from ever occurring at all. Here’s how different weather conditions affect your locks—and how to keep problems from getting underway.
How Cold Weather Affects Locks
When the temperature decreases, locks freeze. Water in the lock freezes, inhibiting the lock from turning or making it almost impossible to remove or insert your key.
Winter Lock Issues:
- Frozen components – Ice in the lock can close motion completely.
- Metal contraction – Freezing would cause inside components to contract, displacing them out of place.
- Stiff keys – Metal does stiffen even without ice, and it happens during cold weather, so locks stiffen or jam.
What You Can Do:
- Spray locks in the fall with a graphite or silicone spray lubricant so parts will be able to move.
- Don’t defrost locks with hot water—it tends to introduce extra moisture into the lock, which then freezes.
- When it rains, have an outdoor lock covered by a plastic bag or lock cover to avoid water intake.
How Heat and Sun Harm Locks
Even if UK summer sun isn’t persistent, uninterrupted sun over long spells—especially where metal doors or south-facing doors—are still a bane despite everything.
Summer Lock Problems
- Metal expansion – Metal in locks and doors does expand a bit with heat, and this causes sticking or alignment to be interfered with.
- Twisted doors – Light from the sun warps wood doors or causes them to bow and hence do not allow locks to catch.
- Sticking key – Expansion that leads to misalignment makes it hard to put in or pull out your key.
Prevention:
- Shade full sun-exposed doors using door coverings, blinds, or plants.
- Adjust your door alignment and check if necessary when it’s low.
- Lubricate locks to restrict friction and enable parts to move freely during hot weather.
How Rain and Humidity Affect Locks
Since rain in much of the UK happens rather frequently, damp is the largest problem—on exterior locks and gates mostly. Damp develops rust, swelling, and interior buildup that over time wear down your lock.
Wet Weather Lock Issues:
- Rust – Rain speeds rusting on outside locks, especially at the cylinder and pins.
- Swollen wood – Stored water in doors causes swelling, so align the lock.
- Internal damp – Water within locks can stiffen them to turn or freeze operating components.
Mitigating the Risk:
- Grease every three months using rust inhibiting grease, especially prior to wet weather.
- Close your doors tightly and not allowing water in near the frame.
- Fit weatherproof locks or fit covers over exposed locks to prevent them from rain.
How Wind and Dust Damage Locks
Wind not only rattles windows—it can also destroy locks, particularly in open or country regions. Blowing winds and suspended dust will wear out mechanisms over time.
Common Wind Problems:
- Dust buildup – Debris and dust blown into the lock will stiffen or jam.
- Slamming doors – Slamming of doors during high winds, bending or breaking the lock.
Precautions to Prevent Them:
- Clean exterior locks with compressed air or a small brush to dislodge debris.
- Close doors firmly shut in high winds to avoid slamming.
- Replace rubber stoppers or soft-close hinges to cushion the door and save the lock.
Best Practices for Lock Maintenance Year-Round
Regardless of the weather, there are some simple things you can do to keep your locks well-oiled and avoid having to break them down.
Silicone or graphite lubricants must be used. Avoid oil-based ones such as WD-40—these attract dust.
- Inspect your locks regularly, especially after a weather change.
- Don’t ignore early warning signs like squeaking and stiffening—repairing a lock at an early point is far cheaper than replacing one that has been in use for a while.
- Keep a spare key safely handy (never under the mat) in case of an emergency.
When to Call a Locksmith
If your lock has stopped turning, your key is stuck, or you’ve been locked out, don’t try to force it—you could end up doing more damage. A professional locksmith can check the condition of your lock and either repair or replace it with a better weather-resistant option.
At Next Door Locksmith, we know how changeable the British weather can be—and how quickly it can leave you vulnerable. From an ice padlocked on a January morning to water damage as a storm broke, our emergency locksmiths are on hand.
We offer a full spectrum of services from Glasgow Locksmith, 24/7 emergency callouts, and reliable lock repairs for residential and commercial property. From speedy repairs to timely maintenance, we are always present by your side to secure you throughout the year.