A key breaking, especially inside of the door lock, can be a frustrating experience. Keys are more delicate than they may seem at first sight, as they are manufactured from soft metals. This makes it easier to cut and duplicate keys, but the metal can wear with time. If you are looking for new ways to protect your keys from snapping and breaking, follow these tips!

Keep Your Locks Lubricated

Once locks begin to lose their lubrication, you’ll need to use more pressure to get the key through the mechanism, putting more strain on the lock itself as well as the key. Consistently putting more strain on the key will weaken the metal, causing it to eventually snap inside the lock. Applying a coat of powdered graphite or spraying an aerosol lubricant on your key before inserting it will be able to keep your locks in full working order, but make sure they are labeled as being safe for locks. Certain chemicals can collect extra dust and clog up the mechanism.

Only Use Keys for Intended Purpose

When you’re in need of something sharp to cracked some plastic packaging or scrape a sticky substance off of a book or card, you may be tempted to use the edge of your key to get the job done. However, this can cause the teeth of your key and well as the edges to wear away, misaligning the key’s position in the lock itself. Make sure you are only using your key to get in and out of locked doors in order to maintain the structural integrity of the key. If you find yourself using your key for other purposes, the time may be right to invest in a multitool that can get what you need done while preventing damage to your lock and key.

Replace Keys Periodically

Your key will naturally age and weaken over time, no matter how well you care for it. Replacing your key with new duplicates at least once per two years keeps the metal strong, reducing the possibility that you will face issues in your locks when you least expect it. You can have keys cut at a local locksmith.

Key Cutting, Duplication & Lock Repair in Bedford, Lexington & Concord MA

If your key has snapped inside your lock or you need to have it replaced, contact Bedford Lock today. We will be able to match and cut keys to match your locks and create duplicates for your family members to enter your home safely. We can also repair any broken locks you may have as a result of a snapped key. Bedford Lock & Key can be reached by calling 781-275-1597 or by filling out our online contact form.