I've used WD-40 Dry Lube on a few vintage locks before, and honestly, never had any major issues. But if your locks are seriously antique, I'd lean toward graphite powder—it's gentle, effective, and less risky for delicate internals. Better safe than sorry with historic hardware...
"Better safe than sorry with historic hardware..."
Yeah, I hear you on that. I'm actually just starting my first renovation project, and the house has a couple of super old locks—I think from around the 1920s or something. I've been hesitant about using WD-40 at all because I've heard mixed things... some people swear by it, others say it's not great for older mechanisms.
I hadn't even thought about graphite powder though. Is it messy to use? I mean, does it get everywhere or is it pretty easy to control? And do you think it would work well even if the lock is already kinda sticking, or should it be used preventatively before issues crop up? Sorry for all the questions, just want to avoid any rookie mistakes if I can help it...
I'm actually just starting my first renovation project, and the house has a couple of super old locks—I think from around the 1920s or something. I've been hesitant about using WD-40 at all becau...
Graphite powder isn't too bad if you're careful—I used it on a sticky antique cabinet lock last year. A little goes a long way, so just squeeze gently. But honestly, once locks start sticking, graphite helps less... better as preventative maintenance.
Graphite powder's decent for minor sticking, but with locks that old... honestly, you might be better off taking them apart and giving them a proper clean. Did that with an ancient door lock last summer—felt like Indiana Jones discovering lost mechanisms inside, lol. Worth the effort though.
"felt like Indiana Jones discovering lost mechanisms inside, lol."
Haha, totally get that feeling. Last time I tackled an old lock, I found rust, dust, and a random bobby pin jammed inside... no hidden treasures sadly, but satisfying once it clicked smoothly again.
