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Auto Locksmith

We make new car keys, unlock trunks and steering wheels and offer the fastest most reliable auto locksmith services in Illinois.

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Commercial Locksmith

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Residential Locksmith

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Removing Scratches from Locksets

10/26/2015 Back To Blog

It is a fact that locks are viewed not only as security devices, but also as decorative fixtures. That is why it is natural for homeowners to be unhappy when they see a lockset covered with scratches. Does this mean that the lock has to go? Usually, the issue can be resolved without lock replacement. If the surface is scratched, but the device works properly, you should try the following methods to get rid of the unsightly scratches.Removing Scratches from Locksets

Restoring the Looks of Your Lock


The choice of scratch removal method depends on the metal which the device is made of and on its finish. If you have a steel lock, you should opt for a product which is especially designed for removing scratches from this metal. It must be potent and meet two other very important requirements. Firstly, it must not be corrosive. If it contains an ingredient that can cause rust and corrosion, you must not use it. Secondly, the scratch remover must not be abrasive. It should have perfectly smooth texture. This is essential since the tiny scratches can lead to great damage in the future and pose the need for major lock repair or even replacement.

The steel scratch remover should be applied only with soft lint-free cloth. Microfiber cloths are ideal for that purpose. After the surface is completely clean, you should consider applying protective finish to it. This should help to prevent deep scratches. Make sure that you use the keys carefully too. Insert the blade directly into the lock. Improper handling of this item can pose the need for key repair or replacement as well as for lock repair.

You will need a slightly different approach for removing scratches from brass locks. If the device has lacquer finish, the scratches are most probably on the finish only and have not reached the surface of the metal. In this case, you simply need to apply a product which is specially formulated for lacquer removal with microfiber cloth. Keep rubbing the surface until the finish is completely removed. If you can still see scratches, you should use a product formulated to remove them. It is crucial that it does not scratch the surface of the lock. This is important since brass has a fairly soft surface for a metal.

You should definitely apply finish to the cleaned door lockset if you want to protect the metal from scratching and color changes in the future. If you do not, the surface will be exposed to air and moisture. This will not lead to rust, but to the formation of patina. It has its aesthetic appeal, but you have to keep in mind that the lock's appearance may be ruined by scratches unless you are very careful during locking and unlocking.

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