When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks help keep your possessions and family safe, but over time they can wear down or be damaged. There are a few indicators that indicate it's time for you to replace or reset your lock.
Although lock replacement is more involved than rekeying it can be done at home. Here are a few top reasons to consider it:
1. You're moving to a new house
The locks on your door are an essential part of your home security. It is easy for burglars to gain access to damaged locks. This is why it's important to know when it's the right time to purchase the replacement.
It is a good idea in the event of moving into a new house, to change the locks. This will ensure that you are the only one with keys and eliminate any suspicions of unauthorized entry by previous residents.
Installing a new lock is an easy process. First, you'll need remove the lock that you currently have. This can be accomplished by using a screwdriver to take out the screws that hold the handle or knob in place. Then, you can use a template provided by the new lock set to mark the location of the handle/knob as well as the latch. Once you've identified the positions, you are able to drill the hole for the face according to the specifications of the lock.
After the holes have been drilled, you will need to install the new lock. It is important to make sure that the deadbolt and strike plate are compatible to the door frame. The bolt should extend approximately 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the doors and be tight enough to secure it.
It is also an excellent idea to get hinges replaced, since they are susceptible to being damaged by a strong hit on the strike plate or lock. If the lock is hard to operate, it might be time to replace. It is recommended to have a professional locksmith change the locks for you. This will ensure that the work is done quickly and properly.
It is also possible to replace your locks if you've gotten rid of a lease or roommate agreement. It is impossible to determine who may have copies of your keys and therefore changing your locks is a prudent step. It also ensures that your belongings and family are secure.
2. You're having trouble opening the door.
A broken lock can be a major issue particularly when it happens to one of your main entry doors. But the good thing is that there are easy steps you can follow to ensure it does not get any worse and that you can open your door as soon as possible.
First, check that your door lock is not simply misaligned. It may be as easy as tightening some screws if this is the problem. It is important to remember, though, that if this doesn't solve the problem then there's something wrong in the internal mechanics of your door lock.
Then, try a lubricant to see if this will help to free the lock. This will help keys slide into and out of the locks more easily, allowing them to be opened. This is generally a good solution for the majority of people, but it is important to keep in mind that if your issue continues to persist then there could be another issue that is causing it, and you will need to contact locksmith.
If your door lock is more than 10 years old it is time to consider replacing it. This is because door locks are not designed to last the entire lifespan of a door and even the highest quality door locks will require replacement at some point in time.
To change your lock, you must take off the lock you have currently. After you have removed the lock, you'll need to determine the thickness of your door to ensure that the replacement will be able to fit. For instance the cylinder locks are available in various shapes to fit different thicknesses of doors. You may also have to replace your entire door if the frame of your door has been damaged. The new lock will require a strike plate and latch plate to be fitted into the frame. They are available separately.
3. You're worried about a burglary
A burglary could make you be concerned about the security of your home. If the perpetrators have left their marks on your door frame (crowbar marks) or it is obvious that they were inside (smoothed out the wood around your lock, broken lock knob), then you should replace your locks to ensure that they are as secure and secure as you can.
Even if you trust the previous owners, there's no way to tell who else might have received a copy of the key. 67% of the crime is committed by people who have keys and therefore changing locks is a great preventative measure.
If the knobs are clogged or are difficult to open, this is a further sign that your locks need to be replaced. This is a sign that the internal mechanism has been damaged by tampering, or simply wear and tear from age. It leaves it vulnerable to damage.
If you're having issues with any of these think about installing a door lock that is keyless instead. They eliminate the need for keys, and can be programmed with one-time entry codes for contractors or pet sitters who require access. You can also buy door locks that have a keypad. This allows you to get into the house without touching anything.
A new lock can be used to improve the appearance of your home. It's not just about security. There are locks that fit the design of your door.
Talk to door lock repairs deal in your area if you are ready to change locks. They can help you select the best lock and then install it quickly. Before you contact a locksmith, make certain to measure your door. The door's thickness is vital to ensure that the lock you choose fits correctly. If your door is more thick than average, you might require a custom lock that can be fitted securely. A good place to start is by placing a wood shim directly against the door, and positioned with the tapered edge against the slot for the lock. Then, slide the screwdriver's tip into the slot and then twist, pulling the shim up. This will release the latch and the screws holding the knobs in place and allow you to remove them.
4. You're tired of the same old keys
Replacing the door lock is a simple upgrade that can add to the security of your home. It's also an excellent DIY technique to master, particularly if you move often or are a landlord that needs to replace locks for tenants. Learn the steps for replacing locks on doors and you'll be able to complete the task yourself in just a few hours.
Even even if you are familiar with and trust the previous homeowners or tenants it is best to protect yourself by installing new locks. You never know who may have the keys. This includes family members, friends, contractors and babysitters. In fact, 67% of unlawful entry is committed by people with a key to your home.
Before starting, make sure to purchase a replacement lock that's compatible with your existing hardware and dimensions. You can select between a deadbolt or knob lock based on the style of your door. Follow these steps to install your new lock:
Start by removing the knobs on both sides of the door. Remove the screws that hold the latch plate at the edge of the front door. After removing the screws, remove the latchplate and the two screws that hold the strike plate or deadbolt plate to the jamb.
Utilizing the template included with your lock set, mark the location of the handle/knob inside and the latch on the face of the door. The spindle (the metal piece that extends from the knob's exterior) must pass through the latch smoothly. Attach the interior handle/knob with the screws provided. Insert the lock cylinder into the latch inside. Make sure that it is properly aligned and that the key works with the lock.
Finalize by securing the strike plates and deadbolt plate using the screws included with the lock replacement set to secure them in the correct position. Test your new lock once you're done to ensure it's functioning properly and that the knob inside is able to slide over the pins. Afterward put everything back together in reverse order and you're done!