Coastal Queensland is hard on metal. Salt air, driving rain and summer heat shorten the life of cheap outdoor hardware and can fog sensors.
What to look for
- IP ratings for exposed gates and external padlocks.
- Corrosion‑resistant finishes and sealed keypads.
- Manufacturer guidance for outdoor vs indoor‑only models.
Front doors vs gates
A sheltered front entry is gentler than a beachside side gate. Do not assume an indoor deadbolt will survive on an exposed gate — use outdoor‑rated padlocks or gate hardware instead.
Maintenance habits that help
- Wipe salt spray off the exterior after storms.
- Keep firmware updated where the brand supports it.
- Replace batteries before they are flat — low power can look like a failed sensor.
