Spring is the season of fresh starts. As you throw open the windows, deep clean your home, and shake off the winter blues, there’s one thing you shouldn’t overlook—your home’s security. Just like winter weather takes a toll on your home’s exterior, your locks and entry points may have suffered wear and tear that could put your safety at risk.

A simple Spring Security Audit can help prevent lockouts, break-ins, and key failures. Here’s what to check and when it’s time to call in a professional.

1. Inspect Your Locks for Damage

Winter’s freezing temperatures and moisture can lead to rust, internal corrosion, and misaligned locks. Take a close look at all exterior locks and door hardware:

• Check for sticking or jamming keys – If your key doesn’t turn smoothly, dirt and debris may be clogging the lock cylinder. A quick cleaning with compressed air or dry lubricant can help, but persistent issues might require a rekey or replacement.

• Look for rust or discoloration – Corrosion weakens lock mechanisms, making them more likely to fail. If you see signs of rust, it’s time for an upgrade.

• Test smart locks and keypads – Warmer weather means more outdoor activity, so make sure batteries are fresh and software is up to date to avoid malfunctions.

2. Secure Your Doors & Entry Points

A strong lock is only as good as what it’s installed on. Spring is the perfect time to reinforce doors and check for weak spots:

• Tighten loose hardware – If your deadbolt or door handles feel wobbly, tighten the screws or consider replacing aging hardware.

• Check your strike plates – Standard screws are too short to hold up against forced entry. Upgrading to 3-inch screws reinforces your door frame and makes it harder to kick in.

• Inspect door frames and weather stripping – Wood can expand and contract with temperature changes, affecting how well your door closes and locks. A misaligned lock can wear down faster or fail when you need it most.

3. Take Inventory of Your Keys

Spring cleaning is the perfect time to get organized—including your keys! Ask yourself:

• Do you know where all your spare keys are? If you’ve misplaced any, it might be time to rekey your locks.

• Have you given out keys to service workers, house sitters, or neighbors? If you’re unsure who has access, a quick rekey ensures only the right people can get in.

• Are you tired of juggling multiple keys? Rekeying your locks to use a single key for all doors makes life easier without compromising security.

4. Assess Outdoor Security

Longer days and warmer weather mean more time spent outside—but it also means potential security risks. Spring is a good time to:

• Check Window Locks & Sliding Doors – Many homeowners forget that windows and sliding glass doors are common entry points for break-ins. Spring is a great time to test window locks and install security bars or reinforced locks if needed.

• Check your exterior lighting – Motion sensor lights should be tested and adjusted to ensure they cover entryways and dark corners.

• Inspect garage and shed locks – Warmer weather means more outdoor projects, but don’t forget to secure your tools, bikes, and valuables.

When to Call a Locksmith

Some maintenance tasks can be handled with a little DIY effort, but if your locks are sticking, outdated, or showing signs of wear, it’s time to call in a pro.

At AW Locksmith, we offer Spring Security Audits to assess your home’s security and recommend the best solutions. Whether you need a simple rekey, lock repairs, or an upgrade to higher grade locks, we’ve got you covered.

🔐 Schedule your Spring Security Audit today! A little maintenance now can save you from lockouts, break-ins, or costly repairs later. Call us now to book your inspection!