Oiling a Deadbolt Lock

Deadbolts, which are sometimes called security locks, are an effective way to guard against an intrusion because the lock’s bolt slides into the door's frame. Over time, the lock's internal components tend to wear and make using the lock unpredictable and sometimes difficult. Although it may be tempting to forgo using the lock, the burden of lubricating the lock with oil is substantially outweighed by the benefit of using the lock consistently.

Screwdriver
Spray lubricant
Cloth or rag

Instructions

- 1
  Open the door.
- 2
  Unscrew the two connecting screws from the interior side of the deadbolt lock with a screwdriver.
- 3
  Pull the interior and exterior portions of the lock away from the door.
- 4
  Unscrew the two retaining screws from the edge of the door, and then slide the bolt out of the door.
- 5
  Spray lubricant onto the interior components of the bolt and both halves of the lock. Wipe away excess lubricant.
- 6
  Insert the bolt into the edge of the door, and tighten the bolt’s two retaining screws.
- 7
  Position the interior side of the lock against the door. Insert the two connecting screws through the lock and into the screw holes within the bolt assembly.
- 8
  Position the exterior side of the deadbolt against the door, ensuring that the tips of the two connecting screws enter the exterior side of the deadbolt. Tighten the connecting screws.

How to Repel a Raccoon in the Attic

How to Keep Burglars From Breaking in Through Your Windows

General Home Safety