I'm dealing with a frustrating issue with my Schlage front door lock, which has warped and is getting increasingly difficult to use. During a recent heat wave, I had to call a locksmith because my key got stuck, and he re-keyed it for me. However, just last night, in the cold and rain, I struggled for 15-20 minutes to get the key inserted. I've noticed it has been difficult to get the key in all the way for a couple of weeks now. I've seen some keypad lock options that seem promising, but I'm looking for any alternatives that would be less prone to warping.
3 Answers
If you're having consistent issues with getting the key in, it might be worth considering a complete lock replacement. Rekeying won't solve the underlying problem. Lube it up first, of course, but if that doesn't help, a new lock could save you a lot of hassle in the long run!
You might want to try using some graphite lubricant in the keyway. It sounds like the pins could be dirty or corroded, which can cause the key to get stuck. Grab a tube of powdered graphite from your local hardware store and consider giving it a clean with some compressed air as well. It might help a lot!
I switched to an electronic lock, and honestly, I love it! I've had mine for almost three years with a family of four, and just replaced the 9V battery for the first time. It’s so convenient; I never worry about keys anymore. Just enter your code and you're good to go!
Totally agree! Powdered graphite works wonders. It's super easy to apply, and it can really smooth things out in no time.