International Association of Certified Home Inspectors

Locks, Hinges and Door Hardware

To maintain the performance and useful life of your home's locks, hinges and door hardware, your home maintenance program should include proper maintenance for locks and hinges. Locks, hinges and door hardware, especially on exterior doors, need periodic lubrication and adjustment to operate properly. Frequent opening, closing and slamming can loosen hardware. Sagging of the door can cause excessive wear. Maintenance for your locks, hinges and door hardware includes inspection. The Home-Wizard suggests you inspect and lubricate these components annually. This will ensure smoother operation as well as proper door alignment, and will reduce wear on doors and frames.

Tighten loose bolts on doorknobs and handles.
Tighten loose screws in hinges.
Arrange to re-hang doors if they have begun to sag or stick.
Check that the door-closer valve is set.
Locks should be lubricated with special graphite designed for locks.
Hinges should be lubricated with penetrating oil.

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