DIY guideDoor

Lubricate the outside door locks and hinges

Puff graphite into a stiff lock, oil the hinges and the latch, and wipe off what's extra, so outside doors work smoothly in every season.

7 steps

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Lock and unlock each outside door. Note any lock that's stiff, gritty or hard to turn.
Hold the graphite tube's tip to the keyhole and give it a short puff. Oil collects grit in a lock: use dry graphite or a lock lubricant.
Put the key in and turn it back and forth a few times to spread the graphite. Wipe the key clean.
Put a drop of light oil on top of each hinge's pin. Open and close the door a few times so it works in.
Hold the door open. Put a drop of oil where the latch slides, and wipe a little on the strike plate.
Wipe drips off the hinges and the latch so they don't collect dirt or stain the floor.
The key still sticks, the lock won't turn, or the door won't open: ask Handyman for a locksmith. Never force a key.

Handyman says: Still sticks? I'll find a locksmith.

Free for every home. Handyman asks a few questions, then books a pro it trusts.