Lake Air and Road Salt: Why Mississauga Locks Corrode

Exterior locks live outdoors, and where they live matters. Homes near Lake Ontario, in Port Credit, Lakeview, Clarkson and Lorne Park, see more moisture and wind than inland ones. Every Mississauga home also faces road salt in winter. Both speed up corrosion.

What corrosion does

Moisture and salt attack finishes and metal parts. Plated surfaces pit and flake. Internal springs and pins can stiffen. A key that used to turn easily gets tight, and a bolt may stick partway. Eventually a lock can fail in the cold, when you most need it.

Signs to watch

Discoloured or flaking finish, a key that needs jiggling, white or green powder around the keyway, rust on screws and a latch that sticks in wet weather.

Reducing the damage

Wipe exterior hardware with a damp cloth a few times a year. After winter, rinse salt from the door and hardware. Use a dry lubricant made for locks, once or twice a year. Do not use heavy oil or grease, which trap dust.

Choose hardware to suit

Look for exterior locks with good corrosion-resistant finishes, such as solid brass or stainless-steel components, and for locks with covers over the keyway. Ask about finishes when replacing. See lock change and replacement.

Keypads and smart locks

Electronic locks need to be rated for outdoor use. Check the weather rating and battery covers. See smart lock installation.

When to replace

A lock that is stiff after cleaning, or shows deep corrosion, should be replaced before it fails. A key that has begun to bend or wear should be recut from a good original.

Plan a check

An annual look at the exterior hardware is inexpensive. See the Mississauga page.

Choosing hardware for the shoreline

For homes and businesses near the lake, choose hardware with corrosion-resistant finishes, such as stainless steel or high-quality plated brass, and avoid cheap zinc parts. Rinse hardware with clean water after salt-heavy weeks, and apply a light protective lubricant to moving parts. Inspect exterior padlocks and gate hardware more often, since they get the most exposure. Replace items showing rust before they seize.