When winter weather rolls into Spokane County, we’re usually thinking about snow shovels and drafty windows. But there’s another part of the home that deserves attention before the season is in full swing, your locks. Cold, wet conditions can mess with how locks work, especially if they’re already a little worn down or outdated.
Making sure your doors close and lock the way they should is a smart move before the coldest days arrive. A tight lock can help keep your home secure, give you peace of mind, and even prevent that frustrating surprise of being stuck outside with frozen hardware. If something doesn’t feel right, it may be time to check in with a locksmith in Spokane County who understands how weather affects home security around here.
Check Your Front and Back Door Locks Before the Temperature Drops
As temperatures start to dip, the way locks perform can change more than most people expect. The colder it gets, the more likely things are to jam or stick on your way in or out.
• Locks that worked smoothly in the summer might suddenly feel stiff or slow
• Older locks, especially those built from standard metals, can freeze up or turn sluggish when snow hits
• Icy rain, wind, and regular use during winter can wear out components faster than usual
If you’ve ever tried to get back inside wearing gloves with your hands full and met unexpected resistance at the door, you know how frustrating that is. A quick inspection can make a big difference. We often catch small problems before they become bigger ones, especially when the weather decides to turn fast.
Our residential lock inspection service provides a thorough review of front, back, and side doors, identifying cold-weather risks before lockouts or failures occur.
Upgrade to Weather-Resistant Deadbolts for Extra Peace of Mind
Some locks just aren’t made for heavy winter use. That’s where weather-resistant deadbolts come in handy. These models are built with materials that hold up better to moisture, freezing temps, and repeated use, even when Spokane’s weather shifts daily.
• Metal types like stainless steel or brass typically perform better through snow and ice
• Modern deadbolts often have seals or coatings that reduce freeze-prone buildup inside the lock
• A proper fit keeps cold air from sneaking in through small gaps around the lock and door
When a door is your first line of defense from cold, a well-sealed, strong deadbolt is a smart upgrade. Not only do these hold up in freezing conditions, but they also make life a little easier throughout the season.
We offer professional installation of weather-resistant deadbolts and lock upgrades so you never have to worry about your biggest entry points failing in the cold.
Consider Smart Locks for Easier Access on Cold Days
Trying to find your keys while juggling groceries in freezing wind isn’t fun. Smart locks offer another solution for busy Spokane households trying to stay warm and stay on schedule during fall and winter.
• Keyless access can be useful when handling bags, tired kids, or holiday packages
• Many smart locks let you create temporary codes for guests, sitters, or deliveries
• With proper installation, smart locks can withstand cold temperatures just like traditional locks
Holiday travel, visiting relatives, or early nightfall during December can all make quick, secure access more important than ever. Spokane County winters aren’t always kind, so anything that removes steps during freezing weather can make a regular day feel a bit smoother.
We install and service a wide range of smart locks for residential customers, tailoring solutions that fit your remote access and security needs, even when weather gets harsh.
Lock Solutions for Outbuildings, Garages, and Secondary Doors
While it’s easy to focus on front and back doors, winter affects every entry point around your property. Detached garages, sheds, and side doors can all have locks that don’t see much use, until they’re needed.
• Sheds and storage spaces might hold snow tools or decorations you’ll be grabbing more often
• Detached garages usually see more use in colder months, especially when avoiding icy windshields
• If these locks haven’t been checked in a year or two, they might be rusty, sticky, or poorly fitted
Secondary locks matter. We recommend giving these lower-traffic areas the same attention so you’re not caught off guard after fresh snow or freezing rain has settled in overnight.
Doorframe Checks and Weather Fit Matter More Than You Think
Sometimes it’s not the lock that creates the problem, it’s the doorframe around it. Spokane winters can shift wood, swell corners, and let moisture sneak into places it shouldn’t.
• Doors that don’t close evenly can put added pressure on the lock
• Damp or misaligned frames can press against the latch, making it hard to turn the key
• Cold air creeping in through warped edges might wear down internal lock parts faster
We see these issues all the time during low temperatures. A lock that’s perfectly fine on its own might fail early just because it no longer fits the way it should in the frame. A quick check from someone who knows what to look for can keep things working smoothly no matter how much snow lands outside.
Keep Spokane Winters Worry-Free with the Right Lock Plan
Late December moves quickly. Between holiday errands, school breaks, and tricky driving weather, it’s easy for small home concerns to get lost in the shuffle. But those small things, like how your door locks open and close, can have a big impact when you least expect it.
We know that home feels more comfortable when you trust that it’s secure. Whether you’ve had past issues with frozen locks or just want to be ready for anything this season brings, staying ahead makes the rest of winter a little easier to handle. Spokane winters will always come with surprises, but your locks shouldn’t be one of them.
Getting your home ready for colder months is the perfect opportunity to make sure your locks are standing up to the freeze. From front doors to garages, Spokane County winters can present unique security challenges when locks aren’t working their best. Whether you need help with icy buildup or everyday function, finding a reliable locksmith in Spokane County can ensure everything is secure and operating smoothly. At Tremain Locksmith, we’re always here to take a closer look when your locks need attention. Reach out to us today to see how we can help.