Maintaining door hardware is essential to your home’s security. If the hardware is not in good working order, it is more vulnerable to break-ins. Door hardware components undergo wear and tear due to regular use. Here is a door hardware checklist to ensure appropriate functioning.
-
Lubrication – Periodic lubrication of the locking mechanism is a must. Thoroughly read the lock manufacturer’s recommendations about the same and apply as directed.
-
Cleaning – Clean the dirt, grit and other unwanted materials from the threshold and from around mounted strikes. Also, remove any foreign material found on the latch bolts.
-
Regular Inspection – Make it a point to do a regular inspection of all door system components. You can do it quarterly or with seasonal changes.
-
Locksets – Check the locksets for loose screws, latch wear, or other defects. Service the lockset or remove defective parts and replace as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. The door should always lock freely and easily without any difficulty. Self-latching devices need to work freely and smoothly as the door swings into the closed position. If you have any problems related to Locks, call a professional locksmith service provider.
-
Door Knobs – If you have a sticky doorknob, the problem is dirt. Spray some cutting oil into the works; it cleans and lubricates the door knobs and restores their smooth functioning. Another issue may be loose screws that hold the knob in place; simply tighten them and all is well.
-
Hinges – Inspect the hinges for loose screws, hinge pin wear, or other defects. Repair the hinges or replace the defective parts as recommended. The door should always swing freely and smoothly without hindrance from the open to latched position.
-
Strike Plate – The strike plate should firmly attach to the frame or inactive leaf of a pair of doors. Look for loose screws and other noticeable defects. Repair or replace the defective parts as required.
-
Closing Devices – Closing devices might have loose attaching screws, linkage arm and pin wear, fluid leakage or other significant defects. Service the device or remove defective parts and replace. Set and maintain the primary and secondary closing speed adjustments. The device should allow the door to operate freely and smoothly throughout its entire swing range and properly latch or remain in the closed position.
-
Flush Bolts – Examine all the flush bolts for loose attaching screws, rod bolt adjustment, and strike plate attachment. Repair the devices or remove defective parts and replace as recommended. The rod bolts should retract, extend and engage the strike or keeper hole freely and smoothly for both manual and automatic flush bolts.
How to Keep Your Door Hardware Looking Like New.
The initial look of your door hardware was pristine. However, slowly, its finish and beauty started diminishing. You can restore it by expending a little effort yourself or by hiring a door hardware service.
General Tips for All Types of Finishes.
-
If your door hardware has a lacquered or clear-coat finishes, wipe it with a soft, damp cloth. Use a mild soap if very dirty.
-
Avoid paint smears, thinners, and strong cleaning agents. They can destroy the protective coatings and expose the finish to oxidation and discoloration.
