--- title: How to Lubricate Window and Door Hardware description: "How to lubricate window and door hardware the right way: which products to use on hinges, locks and mechanisms, how often, and what to avoid in York homes." --- [![SM\_Logo\_Final\_Lught](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/SM_Logo_Final_Lught.webp?width=140&height=80&name=SM_Logo_Final_Lught.webp "SM_Logo_Final_Lught")](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk) - About - [About](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/about) - Doors - [uPVC Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/upvc-doors-york) - [Sliding & Bifold Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/aluminium-sliding-bi-fold-doors) - [Composite Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/composite-doors-york) - [Heritage Aluminium Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/heritage-aluminium-windows-doors) - [Door Repairs](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/window-door-repairs-york) - Windows - [uPVC Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/upvc-windows-york) - [Casement Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/casement-windows-york) - [Sash Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/sash-windows-york) - [Timber Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/timber-windows-york) - [Heritage Aluminium Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/heritage-aluminium-windows-doors) - [Lanterns & Roof Lights](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/korniche-lanterns-flat-roof-lights) - [Window Repairs](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/window-door-repairs-york) - Conservatories - [Conservatories](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/conservatories-orangeries-york) - [Orangeries](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/conservatories-orangeries-york) - Resources - [Gallery](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/gallery) - [Brochures](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/brochure-downloads) - [Blog](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/blog) - [Reviews](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/customer-reviews) - [Contact Us](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/contact) [Request A Quote](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/request-a-quote) [![SM\_Logo\_Final\_Lught](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/SM_Logo_Final_Lught.webp?width=140&height=80&name=SM_Logo_Final_Lught.webp "SM_Logo_Final_Lught")](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk) [Request A Quote](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/request-a-quote) - About - [About](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/about) - Doors - [uPVC Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/upvc-doors-york) - [Sliding & Bifold Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/aluminium-sliding-bi-fold-doors) - [Composite Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/composite-doors-york) - [Heritage Aluminium Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/heritage-aluminium-windows-doors) - [Door Repairs](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/window-door-repairs-york) - Windows - [uPVC Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/upvc-windows-york) - [Casement Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/casement-windows-york) - [Sash Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/sash-windows-york) - [Timber Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/timber-windows-york) - [Heritage Aluminium Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/heritage-aluminium-windows-doors) - [Lanterns & Roof Lights](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/korniche-lanterns-flat-roof-lights) - [Window Repairs](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/window-door-repairs-york) - Conservatories - [Conservatories](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/conservatories-orangeries-york) - [Orangeries](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/conservatories-orangeries-york) - Resources - [Gallery](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/gallery) - [Brochures](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/brochure-downloads) - [Blog](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/blog) - [Reviews](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/customer-reviews) - [Contact Us](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/contact) [Repairs & Maintenance](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/blog/tag/repairs-maintenance) # How to Lubricate Window and Door Hardware By [SM Windows & Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/blog/author/sm-windows-doors) Nov 9, 2026, 2:30:00 PM 3 Minutes Read A stiff handle, a squeaky hinge or a key that needs a wiggle is often crying out for nothing more than the right lubricant. Regular lubrication is the cheapest way to keep windows and doors working smoothly, and it is a big part of how to fix a uPVC door lock mechanism that has gone stiff. Here is what to use, where to use it, and the products to keep well away. ## Why lubrication matters more than people think The hinges, locks and multipoint mechanisms on your windows and doors are full of moving metal parts. They open and close thousands of times a year, and they sit exposed to damp, dust and Yorkshire grit. Without a little lubricant, the friction pads wear, gears grind and, eventually, parts fail. A worn multipoint gearbox or seized hinge costs real money to replace. A can of the right spray costs a few pounds and prevents most of it. Most of the stiff locks and dropped doors we get called out to would have lasted far longer with a twice-a-year clean and lube. It really is that simple. ## Which lubricants to use The type of lubricant matters as much as remembering to do it at all. For window and door hardware, stick to these: - **Dry PTFE spray:** ideal for locks, cylinders and multipoint mechanisms. It goes on wet, dries to a slick film and does not attract dust. - **Silicone spray or grease:** good for hinges, seals and gaskets. It keeps rubber seals supple and stops them sticking or squeaking. - **Graphite powder:** a traditional choice for lock cylinders, though a dry PTFE lock spray does the same job more cleanly. Match the product to the part: PTFE for the working lock and mechanism, silicone for hinges and seals. ## What to avoid This is where a lot of people go wrong with the best intentions. Do not use general oily sprays like WD-40 or 3-in-1 oil on locks and multipoint mechanisms. They work for a day or two, then the oily residue attracts dust and grit, which forms a gritty paste that clogs the mechanism and wears it faster. WD-40 is a water displacer and cleaner, not a long-term lubricant for these parts. If you have already sprayed oil into a lock, a dry PTFE lock spray can help flush and replace it. Also steer clear of cooking oil, grease guns full of thick automotive grease, and anything that leaves a sticky film. Clean and light is the goal. ## How to lubricate, part by part ### Hinges Wipe the hinge clean of grit first. Apply a light silicone spray to the moving parts and pivot points, then open and close the window or door several times to work it in. Wipe off any excess so it does not run down the frame. ### Locks and cylinders Put the thin nozzle of a dry PTFE lock spray or graphite into the keyhole and give a short burst. Insert and turn the key a few times to spread it through the barrel. This is the fix for a key that sticks or turns stiffly. ### Multipoint door mechanisms Lift the handle to throw the locking points out, then apply dry PTFE spray to the visible hooks, rollers and bolts and along the faceplate. Work the handle up and down several times. This keeps the gearbox and points running freely, and it is the first thing to try on a stiff uPVC door lock mechanism before assuming it needs replacing. If it stays stiff after a clean and lube, our [repairs team in York](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/window-door-repairs-york) can check whether the gearbox is worn. ### Seals and gaskets Wipe the rubber seals and give them a light silicone spray a couple of times a year. This keeps them soft, helps them seal against draughts, and stops them sticking to the frame in cold weather. ## How often to do it Twice a year is a sensible rhythm for most homes: once in spring and once in autumn before the cold sets in. Doors and windows on exposed, weather-facing elevations benefit from a bit more attention, as do any that get heavy daily use. Coastal and very exposed rural spots around North Yorkshire may want a third pass. Keep the hardware wiped clean between times, and lubrication becomes a five-minute job rather than a repair bill. Looking after the hardware also protects your investment. Whether you have our [uPVC doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/upvc-doors-york) or older units, a little routine care adds years to their working life. ## FAQs ### What is the best lubricant for a uPVC door lock mechanism? A dry PTFE lock spray is best for the mechanism and cylinder. It leaves a slick, dry film that does not attract dust, unlike oily sprays which clog the gears over time. ### Can I use WD-40 on my window and door locks? It is best avoided on locks and multipoint mechanisms. WD-40 is a water displacer, not a lasting lubricant, and its oily residue attracts grit that clogs the mechanism. Use a dry PTFE spray instead. ### How often should I lubricate window and door hardware? Twice a year suits most homes, in spring and autumn. Doors and windows on exposed elevations or in heavy daily use may benefit from a little more often. ### My uPVC door lock is still stiff after lubricating. What now? If a clean and a dry PTFE lube do not free it up, the multipoint gearbox may be worn. That is a specialist replacement rather than a lubrication job, so it is worth getting checked before it fails completely. Want to keep your windows and doors in top shape? [Download our latest brochure](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/brochure-downloads), or [request a free quote](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/request-a-quote) and we will pop out for a look. #### SM Windows & Doors Author ## Phone: 07833387823 Email: [Sam@smwindowsanddoors.co.uk](mailto:Sam@smwindowsanddoors.co.uk) Opening times: Mon - Fri: 09:00 - 17:00 Sat-Sun: By Prior Appointment [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/people/SM-Windows-Doors/100093013267883/) [Follow us on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/smwindowsanddoors/) ![x59dcc190ea7d320001f0083a\_logoAsset-2-1.jpg.pagespeed.ic.lk8k-280iY](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/x59dcc190ea7d320001f0083a_logoAsset-2-1.jpg.pagespeed.ic.lk8k-280iY.jpg?width=300&height=106&name=x59dcc190ea7d320001f0083a_logoAsset-2-1.jpg.pagespeed.ic.lk8k-280iY.jpg "x59dcc190ea7d320001f0083a_logoAsset-2-1.jpg.pagespeed.ic.lk8k-280iY") ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "SM Windows & Doors", "url" : "https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/blog/author/sm-windows-doors" }, "dateModified" : "2026-11-09T14:30:00.935Z", "datePublished" : "2026-11-09T14:30:00.000Z", "headline" : "How to Lubricate Window and Door Hardware", "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/blog/sm-windows-doors-blog/how-to-lubricate-window-and-door-hardware", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/hubfs/SM_Logo_Final_Lught.webp" }, "name" : "SM Windows & Doors" } } ```