How to Maintain Your Locks in a Coastal Climate

Orange County’s oceanfront location is easy on the eyes but tough on locks and hardware.

The salty, moist air facilitates rust and corrosion, and if you’ve noticed your locks getting sticky and harder to turn, it’s partly due to the coastal environment.

This guide offers straightforward steps to protect your locks from salt-air corrosion and keep them working smoothly for years, potentially preventing an early visit from the locksmith.

Why Coastal Climates Damage Locks

Salt and moisture in the air create an electrolytic effect that accelerates the corrosion of most metals. When saltwater settles on the surface of your locks, it eats away at the finish and internal mechanisms.

Here’s what happens:

• Airborne salt particles land on your locks.
• Humidity, fog, and rain mix with the salt, creating a corrosive saline solution.
• This solution attacks the metal, leading to rust on iron-based components and oxidation on others like brass and zinc.

The internal parts of the lock, such as the pins, springs, and cylinder, are particularly vulnerable. As they corrode, they can seize.

Step-by-Step Lock Maintenance Guide

Regular cleaning and lubrication, performed every 3 to 6 months, can mitigate the impact of coastal conditions.

1. Clean the Exterior

First, clean the handle, faceplate, and the area around the keyhole.

• Mix a solution of mild soap and warm water.
• Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down all external surfaces of the lock hardware.
• Use a soft-bristle brush for stubborn grime.
• After cleaning, rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe away soap residue.
• Thoroughly dry the lock with a separate, clean cloth. Don’t leave any moisture behind.

2. Clean the Interior Mechanism

You’ll need a can of compressed air and a quality lock or electrical contact cleaner.

1. Use the straw attachment on a can of compressed air and spray it directly into the keyhole. This will dislodge and remove dust, sand, or loose debris trapped inside.
2. Spray a small amount of lock or electrical contact cleaner into the keyhole. These products dissolve grease and grime without leaving residue.
3. Insert your key into the lock and work it back and forth several times. This distributes the cleaner throughout the internal mechanism, breaking down any buildup on the pins and springs.
4. Remove the key and wipe it clean with a cloth. You might see black residue, which is a good sign that the cleaner is working. Repeat this process until the key comes out clean.

3. Lubricate the Lock

Avoid using oil-based lubricants like WD-40. They can attract dust and gum up a lock’s innards.

1. The best choice for locks is a dry, graphite-based or silicone-based lubricant. These products lubricate moving parts without creating a sticky residue.
2. Apply a small puff of graphite powder or a quick spray of silicone lubricant directly into the keyhole. A little goes a long way.
3. As with the cleaner, insert your key and work it back and forth to ensure the lubricant coats all the internal parts. The key should now turn smoothly.
4. Lock and unlock the door several times to confirm that the mechanism operates freely.

Choosing the Right Locks for Coastal Homes

If you’re replacing old locks or installing new ones, selecting hardware designed for coastal conditions can save you a lot of trouble. Look for locks with corrosion-resistant finishes.

• Stainless Steel (316 Marine Grade): This is one of the best materials for coastal environments. Marine-grade 316 stainless steel contains molybdenum, significantly enhancing its saltwater corrosion resistance.
• PVD Finishes: Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) is a coating process that creates a highly durable and corrosion-resistant finish. Locks with a PVD finish are an excellent choice for beachfront properties.
• Solid Brass: While brass can tarnish, it doesn’t rust. A high-quality, lacquer-coated solid brass lock can hold up well, though the lacquer may eventually need to be reapplied.

When shopping, look for manufacturers that offer a lifetime finish warranty. This often indicates a high-quality, durable product.

FAQs: Maintaining Your Locks

Q: How often should I clean my locks in Orange County?

We recommend cleaning and lubricating your locks every three months for homes on the coast. If you live further inland but still within the coastal zone, every six months is usually sufficient.

Q: Can I use WD-40 to lubricate my locks?

Avoid oil-based lubricants. They attract dust and dirt, which can gum up the internal mechanisms and cause more problems in the long run. Stick to a dry graphite or silicone-based lubricant.

Q: My key is broken off inside the lock. What should I do?

It’s best to call a professional locksmith. They have specialized tools called key extractors to remove the broken piece without damaging the lock. Removing it yourself can often push the fragment deeper and worsen the problem.

Q: What are the best lock brands for coastal areas?

Look for brands that offer marine-grade stainless steel or PVD finishes. Brands like Baldwin, Emtek, and Schlage often have product lines designed for harsh environments and may offer finish warranties.

Q: Is rust on a lock purely a cosmetic issue?

Rust is more than just a cosmetic problem. While it starts on the surface, it can penetrate the lock’s internal components, causing them to seize and fail. A rusty lock is a compromised lock.

Q: Can I paint my locks to protect them from salt air?

No. Paint can chip and flake, easily clogging the keyway and interfering with the moving parts of the lock mechanism.

Q: What’s the difference between cheap and expensive locks?

The difference often lies in the quality of the materials and the manufacturing precision. More expensive locks use solid, corrosion-resistant metals like stainless steel or solid brass and have more robust internal mechanisms, making them more durable.

Q: How can I tell if my lock needs replacing?

Signs that your lock may need replacement include visible rust or corrosion that can’t be removed, difficulty inserting or turning the key even after lubrication, and a loose or wobbly mechanism. If you have any doubts about your lock’s security, call a locksmith.