When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are designed to protect your belongings and family safe. However, they can get worn out or interfere with time. There are a few warning signs that it's time to consider changing or rekeying your lock.
Even though lock replacement is more complex than rekeying it can be done at home. Here are a few top reasons to consider it:
1. You're moving to a brand new home
The locks on your door are a vital part of your home security. It's easy for burglars gain access to locks that are damaged. This is why it's important to know when it's the right time to purchase the replacement.
It is a good idea, when you move into a new house changing the locks. This will ensure you are the sole owner of the keys and remove any suspicions that previous residents might have entered your house without permission.
New lock installation is a straightforward process. First, you'll need take off the lock you have already installed. You can take out the screws holding the knob or handle in place by using the screwdriver. Then, you can make use of a template supplied by the new lock set to mark the location of the handle/knob as well as the latch. Once you have marked the positions, you are able to drill the face hole according to the lock specifications.
Once the holes are drilled then you need to install the new lock. It is essential to ensure that the deadbolt and strike plate fit properly with the door frame. The bolt should extend about 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the door and be tight enough to ensure it is secure.
upvc door replacement lock on the strike plate or lock could easily cause damage to the hinges. If the lock is hard to operate, it may be time to replace it. It is best to have a professional locksmith replace your locks for you, as this will guarantee that the job is done quickly and efficiently.
You may also want to replace your locks if you've ended an agreement to rent or a roommate. It's impossible to know who may have an unofficial copy of your key thus changing the locks is a good idea. This will ensure the security of your family and possessions.
2. You are having difficulty opening the door.
A broken lock can be a major issue particularly when it occurs to one of your primary entry doors. However, the good news is that there are some easy steps you can follow to ensure that it does not get any worse and that you are able to open your door as quickly as you can.
The first step is to look at the door lock and ensure that it isn't simply misaligned. If this is the case, it could be just as easy as tightening one of the screws. It is important to keep in mind, though, that if this does not solve the issue then there's something wrong with the internal mechanics of your door lock.
Next, try using the lubricant and see if this will help to free the lock. The concept behind this is to assist the key to slide more easily into and out of the lock, so that it can be opened if needed. This is a good solution for most people. However should the issue persist it is possible to speak with a locksmith.
Finally, if your door lock is older than about 10 years old, it's probably the time to get a new one. This is because door locks aren't designed to last for the entire life of a door, and even the most durable door locks are likely to need to be replaced at some point in time.
To replace the lock, you'll need to remove the current lock from your door. After that, it's important to determine the thickness of your door to ensure that you can find a lock that is suitable for your door. For instance, cylinders are available in a variety of shapes that can accommodate different thicknesses of doors. You will also need to replace the entire door in the event that the frame of your door has been damaged. The new lock will require the latch plate and strike plate to be installed into the frame. They are available separately.
3. You're worried that there could be a break-in
The possibility of a burglary can shake confidence in the security of your home. If the culprits have left their mark on your door frame (crowbar marks) or it is clear that they were inside (smoothed out the wood around your lock knob, broken lock) It is recommended that you replace your locks to ensure that they are as secure and safe as possible.
Even if you trust the previous owners, there is no way to determine who else may have received a copy of the key. 6-7% of unlawful entry is committed by those who have keys, so changing your locks is a good preventative measure.
Another indicator that you should replace your locks is if the knobs seem to be sticking or difficult to open. This indicates that the internal mechanism of the lock has been damaged by alteration or just wear and tear, which makes it susceptible to damage and failure.
If you're experiencing any of these issues you should consider installing a door lock that is keyless instead. They eliminate the necessity for keys and can be programmed to allow access only for pet-sitters, contractors, or contractors. You can also buy door locks that come with keys. This allows you to access your home without touching anything.
The purchase of a new lock isn't only about security and safety, it can also be a means to update the look of your home. Depending on the design of your door, you can find locks that will complement it perfectly.
Talk to a locksmith in your area if you are ready to change locks. They can assist you in selecting the appropriate lock and then install it quickly. Make sure you measure your door prior to calling an expert locksmith. It is crucial to determine the thickness of your door in order to ensure that the new lock will fit properly. If your door is more thick than average, you may need to get a custom-made lock that fits securely. Begin by placing an shim of wood against the door, with the tapered edge placed against the slot of the lock. Then, slide the screwdriver's tip into the slot, then turn to pull the shim upwards. This will release the latches and screws holding the knobs in position which allows them to be removed.
4. You're tired of the same old keys
It is easy to upgrade your door lock and improve the security of your home. It's also an excellent DIY skill to have, especially in the event that you frequently move or are a landlord who has to replace locks for tenants. Learn the steps to replace a door lock and you'll be able to complete the task yourself in just a few short hours.
Installing new locks is a good idea when you are a trusted and reliable friend of the previous owners or tenants. You never know who could have the old keys. This includes friends, family members, contractors and babysitters. In fact, those who have access to your house are accountable for 67 percent of all illegal entry.
Before you begin, be sure to purchase a replacement lock that's compatible with your existing hardware and measurements. Depending on the design of your door, you could pick deadbolt locks or a doorknob lock. Once you've purchased your new lock, follow these steps to install it:
Start by removing both the knobs that were on the door. Remove the screws holding the latch plate at the edge of the front door. Once you've done this take off the latch plate and the two screws that secure the strike plate or deadbolt plate to the jamb.
Using the template that comes with your lock set, mark the locations of the interior handle/knob and the latch on the face of the door. Make sure the spindle (the long metal piece that sticks out of the knob's exterior) can pass through the latch and operates smoothly. Attach the handle/knob to the interior using the provided screws. Install the lock cylinder in the interior latch. Make sure that it is aligned correctly and that the key is compatible with the lock.
Attach the strike plates and deadbolt plates using the screws provided in the set of replacement locks. Test the new lock after you're done to ensure it works correctly and that the inside knob can slide smoothly over the pins. Then put it back in reverse order and you're done!