I've never really had good luck mixing lubes to be honest... seems like no matter what I try, I end up with a sticky mess eventually. Instead, I've switched to using graphite powder on hinges and locks. It's naturally eco-friendly, doesn't gum up or attract dirt, and lasts a surprisingly long time. Maybe worth giving it a shot if you're tired of cleaning up gummy residue every few weeks?
"Instead, I've switched to using graphite powder on hinges and locks. It's naturally eco-friendly, doesn't gum up or attract dirt, and lasts a surprisingly long time."
Graphite powder is great stuff—been using it for years on job sites. One quick tip though: be careful not to overdo it. A little goes a long way, and too much can leave dark smudges around the lock or hinge area. Learned that the hard way after a client pointed out fingerprints all over their white door... oops.
One quick tip though: be careful not to overdo it. A little goes a long way, and too much can leave dark smudges around the lock or hinge area.
Graphite powder definitely beats WD-40 for locks, no argument there. But honestly, I've found dry silicone spray even better—no smudges, dries clear, and doesn't attract dirt either. Ever tried it? Curious how you'd compare the two...
"Graphite powder definitely beats WD-40 for locks, no argument there. But honestly, I've found dry silicone spray even better—no smudges, dries clear, and doesn't attract dirt either."
Interesting you mention silicone spray—I gave it a shot a couple years back after graphite left some nasty smudges on a rental property's front door. Worked great at first, smooth as butter, but I noticed it didn't seem to last quite as long as graphite. Maybe it was just the brand I used or the weather conditions (humid summers here), but after about six months, tenants started complaining again about sticky locks.
Ended up going back to graphite powder, just being extra careful not to overdo it. Still curious though...have you noticed silicone spray holding up well over time? Or do you find yourself reapplying it pretty regularly?
I've used silicone spray quite a bit, and honestly, your experience matches mine. It works great initially—locks turn super smooth and no mess—but longevity isn't its strong suit. I usually find myself reapplying every 4-6 months, especially on doors exposed to weather or heavy use. Graphite definitely lasts longer, but the smudging drives me nuts.
One thing I've tried recently is Teflon-based dry lubricant sprays. They seem to strike a decent balance: clean application like silicone, but they hold up better over time. Not perfect, but I've noticed fewer callbacks from tenants complaining about sticky locks. Might be worth a shot if you're tired of graphite smudges and silicone's short lifespan...
