FEATURE: SAFETY & SECURITY


HOMEOWNERS FACE INCREASED DOOR LOCK FAILURES AS TEMPERATURES DROP


G Johns & Sons, a leading specialist in architectural ironmongery, explores the impact of recent cold temperatures on door locks, offers insights into the neglect homeowners show toward door locks, and provides tips on how to prevent door lock failures in colder weather.


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old weather is increasing the risk of door lock failures across the UK, according to experts at G Johns & Sons.


Homeowners are urged to inspect their door locks to prevent security risks and costly repairs.


Why does cold weather cause door lock problems? As temperatures drop and remain low, especially throughout January, the UK is 0.5°C below average, and the cold has continued in February so far. Cold weather affects door locks in a variety of ways: Metal contraction: Low temperatures cause metal components to shrink, potentially misaligning locks and jamming keys.


Freezing moisture: Any moisture inside a lock can freeze, making mechanisms difficult or impossible to operate.


Neglected maintenance: Seasonal issues are more likely when locks haven’t been regularly checked or serviced.


UK Homeowners Often Unaware of Door Lock Conditions Research shows that most UK homeowners are unaware of the condition of their door lock and how long it has been in place. According to research, the latest


figures suggest that 58-70% of homeowners do not check or change the locks when moving properties Being unaware of your locks’ condition increases the risk of lock failure or burglary. According to


in damage-prone conditions such as colder winter temperatures.


Top tips for preventing cold-weather lock failures Homeowners can majorly reduce the risk of lock failures when temperatures drop with a range of simple preventative measures: Inspect locks regularly for any visible damage like corrosion, general wear, or misalignment Apply specialist lock lubricant or graphite to keep door lock mechanisms smooth


sources, approximately 70% of home break-ins occur through the frontor back door. Door locks for front doors typically last 7-10 years; therefore, it is concerning that awareness of door lock condition is lacking, especially


Consider upgrading old or worn locks to more modern, weather- resistant products.


• Visit the G Johns website at www.gjohns.co.uk for more information.


THE MOST UNLIKELY CAUSES OF HOUSEHOLD FIRES ACCORDING TO FIRE SAFETY EXPERTS


A new Freedom of Information study by Fire Safety Consultants Safety Group (www.safetygroupuk. com) shows that while cooking and electrical faults remain the most common causes of household fires, the data shows that UK homes have also caught fire due to far less expected ignition sources, including sunlight, insect smoke bombs, trouser presses and even tree bark.


One of the most surprising causes identified was sunlight, which was responsible for three recorded household fires over the


three-year period. These incidents typically occur when sunlight is concentrated through glass, mirrors or reflective objects and focused onto flammable materials such as fabrics, paper or furniture, causing them to ignite without any direct heat source.


Several incidents were also linked to items often considered harmless or low-risk. Curtains and window coverings caused two fires across the period, while single incidents were recorded involving mobile phone chargers, waste bins and hot ash. In many cases, these fires began when everyday items were left close to heat sources or when hot materials were mistakenly believed to be fully extinguished. Modern technology also features among the less obvious fire risks. The data includes incidents caused by solar panels and e-scooter batteries, both of which rely on electrical systems or lithium-ion batteries that can fail, overheat or ignite if damaged, poorly installed


26 DIY WEEK FEBRUARY 2026


Ignition Source The Sun


Insect Smoke Bombs Trouser Presses Tree Bark


Solar Panels E-Scooter Batteries


Mobile Phone Chargers Hot Ash


Waste Bins


2023 2024 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0


Curtains and Window Coverings 0


or charged incorrectly. As these technologies become more common in UK homes, the importance of correct installation and safe charging practices increases.


Other unexpected ignition sources


recorded include insect smoke bombs, trouser presses and even tree bark, often linked to storage near heat sources or unusual ignition circumstances. While each cause accounts for a small number of incidents, together they demonstrate


0 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 2


2025 3 Year Total 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0


3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2


how easily fires can start from items people rarely associate with danger. Fire safety experts warn that these incidents underline the importance of remaining vigilant around all heat sources, properly extinguishing hot materials, and avoiding placing everyday household items near heaters, open flames or electrical equipment. The findings serve as a reminder that fire risks can come from the most unlikely places.


www.diyweek.net


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