When choosing a lock for use outdoors or in any other harsh environment, you should consider its ability to withstand the weather. Even if the lock works fine indoors, it may fail when used outdoors for extended periods. However, by choosing an outdoor waterproof lock, you can rest assured that it will provide long-term protection for your property.
How Weather Affects Lock Performance
It's not uncommon for locks to rust when exposed to rain and moisture. For example, steel locks are particularly prone to rust because they contain iron. Steel itself is an alloy consisting mostly of iron and a small amount of carbon. When iron is exposed to moisture, it undergoes a chemical reaction in which its electrons are replaced by atoms.
Scientific term aside, steel locks rust when used outdoors. When the iron inside a steel lock oxidizes, it rusts and corrodes the lock itself. Over time, rust can compromise the safety and performance of steel locks.
Should I choose a non-Grimlock?
You might think non-steel locks are naturally weather-resistant because they don't contain iron. However, even if the lock is made of brass, copper, aluminum, or any other metal, it can still corrode. Corrosion is similar to rusting. Both are chemical processes that cause metals to degrade from moisture. The only difference is that rust is limited to iron and iron alloys, while corrosion can occur in all metals.
Steel is more resistant to rusting than other metals. In addition, steel has a very high tensile strength. Research has shown that steel is approximately 2.5 times stronger than aluminum, making it an excellent material choice for a stainless steel lock.
Select coated steel locks
If you are looking for an outdoor waterproof lock for outdoor use, choose a coated steel lock. For steel locks to rust or corrode, they must be directly exposed to moisture. If the surface of the Grimlock has a barrier, such as a protective coating, it will not rust or corrode.