In this blog entry, the professional Cincinnati lock repair service team here at Lightning Fast Locksmith will detail the different ways that hot or cold weather can affect door lock systems.

How does hot or cold weather affect door lock systems?

Metal Expansion

The vast majority of door locks are made of metal. Metal expands in warmer temperatures, and can contract in cold temperatures. As this happens, hidden lock components can be pushed out of alignment, making it hard to turn your key, or even causing the lock to get fully jammed. This is a common issue with wooden exterior doors, as wood often expands in heat as well, which can further push deadbolt lock components out of alignment.

Lubrication Problems

Hot weather can cause lubricant within door locks to evaporate or dissipate. Without this lubrication, pressure or friction between other metal locking components can increase, which causes strain on your locks. This makes them less efficient and more susceptible to damage, which could result in the need for expensive repair or replacement.

Freezing and Moisture Issues

Moisture in or around locks can freeze in the Winter, blocking lock components from functioning and moving. Keypad locks can also experience issues when moisture on them freezes in cold weather, which can jam push buttons. This is a serious issue in the middle of Winter, as it can lead you to getting locked out in cold weather. Provide proper Winter maintenance to locks to prevent moisture from entering them – we recommend the application of graphite powder to do so.

Battery Issues

Increased exposure to cold weather can impact the battery life of electronic and keyless locks. This can cause subtle malfunctions or even total operational failure. This is why it’s essential to periodically get professional maintenance service for your keyless locks, most importantly regularly changing and/or replacing keyless lock batteries, especially during changing seasons.