I've had mixed luck with keypad locks outdoors. Installed one on my shed a couple years back thinking I'd finally outsmart myself and never get locked out again. Worked great...until winter hit. First really cold snap, the keypad got sluggish and eventually stopped responding altogether. Had to thaw it out with a hairdryer (picture me standing in snow boots, extension cord trailing behind, neighbors probably thinking I'd lost it).
But after that fiasco, I upgraded to a higher-quality weatherproof model—one specifically rated for harsh climates—and it's been solid ever since. Even survived last year's ice storm without a hiccup. So yeah, electronic locks can definitely work outdoors, but don't cheap out like I did initially.
"Switching to silicone spray definitely helped me too; it's cleaner and seems to hold up better in damp conditions."
Totally agree on silicone spray, by the way—it's saved me from plenty of lock-related headaches. Just don't accidentally grab WD-40 instead...been there, done that, and trust me, it's not the same thing at all.
Glad you mentioned the WD-40 thing...I learned that lesson the hard way too. Thought I was being clever spraying it into my front door lock, and ended up with a gummy mess that attracted dirt like crazy. Silicone spray was a game changer for sure.
"Had to thaw it out with a hairdryer (picture me standing in snow boots, extension cord trailing behind, neighbors probably thinking I'd lost it)."
Haha, that mental image is priceless. Makes me wonder though—has anyone tried those mechanical push-button locks outdoors? No batteries or electronics to freeze up, but I'm curious if they're actually reliable in harsh weather. Seems like fewer moving parts would be a plus, but maybe ice could still jam them up? I've been tempted to try one on my garage side door, but after reading your story, I'm second-guessing myself a bit...
I've had one of those mechanical push-button locks on my back porch door for a few years now... honestly, it's been pretty solid through Midwest winters. Ice can still build around the buttons occasionally, but a quick tap usually clears it right up. Beats fumbling with keys, anyway.
"Ice can still build around the buttons occasionally, but a quick tap usually clears it right up."
Good tip about tapping off the ice. Ever had issues with the buttons getting sticky or jammed over time? I've installed a few for clients, and I'm always curious how they hold up long-term...especially through rough winters.
I've noticed the buttons can get a little sluggish after a couple harsh winters, but nothing major yet. I wonder if spraying a bit of silicone lubricant around the edges before winter hits might help keep moisture out? Has anyone tried something like that, or would it just attract more dirt and grime over time...?
