frozen padlocks this morning

[Jenbirdee]

I just started using keyed padlocks on me new little chicken coop this year. and this morning they were frozen was almost impossible to get the key in and took a long time and a lot of wiggling before I could open it. and I was worried I might break the key off inside the lock and then what?? I thought about going back in the house for a little torch lighter but after a bunch of wiggling frantically, and some prayer, because the chickens were crying to get out , finally, I got one open. So yes we got tons of rain the last couple of days and then tonight it went down to 30° and froze things - even my duck house door knob locks were very difficult to get the key in and turn which is unusual because I’ve had this duck house through five Winters already without trouble like that .. but if this is going to be a regular problem with padlocks over the winter I just can’t really use them I guess.. ? is there something else that’s just as safe but won’t freeze?

 

[thecatumbrella]

I’ve used every type of “weatherproof” padlocks on my shed. They freeze and rust every winter. I’ve stopped using them. Please update if you find something that works!

 

[southwestclucker]

worth a try: take a nice thick plastic bag or something similar and enclose the lock in it, using twisters or whatever to keep it tight - to keep the water from getting in and freezing.... air can't freeze (i had to rig up a solution when my automatic door kept freezing shut)

 

[Jenbirdee]

worth a try: take a nice thick plastic bag or something similar and enclose the lock in it, using twisters or whatever to keep it tight - to keep the water from getting in and freezing.... air can't freeze (i had to rig up a solution when my automatic door kept freezing shut)

i’m gonna try that thx

 

[Ted Brown]

Unless you are dealing with human predators you do not need a keyed lock.

Carabiners are available that "lock". The ones I use have a threaded cylinder that screws over the latch portion. Cheap and easy although I have had these freeze in winter rain (use pliers to break loose).

 

[aart]

No matter what kind of latch or lock you use, it needs to be sheltered from rain/snow.
A flap of rubber or hinged wood over the lock might shed enough water to keep it from freezing.
...and I advise against those self-latching latches on a coop or run.

 

[Brooks_]

and I advise against those self-latching latches on a coop or run.

For accidental lock in/out reason?

 

[aart]

For accidental lock in/out reason?

Yes.

 

[Pork Pie]

I find a light flaming with a blow-torch on the padlock can work wonders. Ditto warming the key in your hand. It's something I have to do quite often in the course of my work.

 

[Penpal]

If I wanted to get into your coops I would bring a bolt cutter or Dremel.