When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are designed to ensure that your family and possessions are secure. However, they may become worn out or tampered with over time. There are certain indicators that tell you it's time to change or rekey your lock.
While lock replacement is a more complex process than rekeying, it could be done at home. Here are some important reasons to take a look at it:
1. You're moving to a brand new home
Your door locks are an important part of your home's security. If they're damaged it's possible for burglars to gain access. It is important to recognize the indicators that indicate when it's time to replace your window.
If you're moving into a new home then it's recommended to get the locks changed. This will ensure that you're the only one with keys, and eliminate any suspicions of unauthorized entry from previous residents.
New lock installation is a straightforward procedure. First, you'll need to remove the lock that you currently have. This can be accomplished using a screwdriver to take out the screws that hold the knob or handle in place. Utilize the template supplied with the new lock to mark the locations of the knob/handle, and latch. After you've marked the locations, drill the face hole to match the specifications of the lock.
Once the holes are drilled and the lock is installed, you must install the new lock. It is essential to make sure that the deadbolt and strike plate are compatible to the door frame. The bolt should extend about 1/2 inch past the edge of the door and should be strong enough to ensure the door is secured.
It's also an excellent idea to get hinges replaced as they can be damaged by a hard hit on the strike plate or lock. If the lock is hard to operate, it could be time to replace. It's best to have the professional locksmith change the locks for you and ensure that the job is completed correctly and quickly.
There are numerous other reasons to change your locks, for instance ending a roommate or rental agreement. It is impossible to know who may have an duplicate of your key. front door locks replacement to change the locks is therefore a prudent precaution. It will also ensure that your belongings and family are secure.
2. You are having difficulty opening the door
A broken lock is a nightmare. Particularly when it happens on the main entrance door. There are a few easy steps you can take to stop the issue from becoming worse and to be in a position to open the door as quickly as you are able to.
First, make sure whether your door lock isn't just misaligned. If this is the case, it may be as simple as tightening some of the screws. It is crucial to remember, though, that if this doesn't resolve the issue it is likely that there is something wrong with the internal mechanics of the door lock.
Next, try applying an oil-based lubricant to see if this will help to free the lock. The idea behind this is to help the key slide more easily into and out of the lock, so that it can be opened when needed. This is a good solution for most people. However in the event that the issue persists you might need to speak with a locksmith.
Finally, if your door lock is older than about 10 years old It's likely time for a replacement. This is because door locks aren't designed to last for the entire lifetime of a door, and even the highest quality door locks are likely to require replacement at some point in time.
In order to replace your lock, you'll need to remove the existing lock from your door. After removing the existing lock, you'll need to measure your door thickness to ensure that the replacement will fit. For instance, cylinders are available in a variety of shapes that can accommodate a variety of door thicknesses. You will also need to replace your entire door in the event that the frame of your door has been damaged. This is because the new lock will need to be secured into the frame using the latch plate or strike plate as well as a deadbolt. All of these are available as separate items.
3. You're worried about a break-in
A break-in can make you doubt the security of your house. Whether the culprits left behind their marks (crowbar marks on your door frame) or it's evident that they're inside (smoothed wood around the lock and broken lock knob), you need to give yourself renewed security by changing your locks and making sure they are as secure as you can.
Even if you believed in the previous owners, it's impossible to determine if someone else has copies. 6-7% of unlawful entry is committed by people who have keys and therefore changing locks is a great preventative measure.
If the knobs are stuck or are difficult to open, it is a indication that your locks require to be replaced. This means that the mechanism within the lock is damaged due to the tampering of your locks or simply wear and tear, making it vulnerable to damage and eventual failure.
Consider installing a lock that is keyless If you're experiencing any of these problems. These eliminate the need for keys, and can be programmed with one-time access codes for contractors and pet sitters who require access. There are also door locks with keys that allow you to open the door without touching anything.
A new lock can improve the appearance of your home. It's not only about safety. Depending on the style of your door, you can find locks that will complement it perfectly.
If you're ready to make the switch consult a local locksmith. They can assist you in selecting the right lock and then install it quickly. Be sure to measure the door prior to calling a professional locksmith. The thickness of the door is crucial to ensure that the replacement lock fits properly. If your door is more thick it may require a lock that's custom-made to fit snugly. The best way to begin is by placing a wood shim against the door and then putting it with the tapered edge against the slot for the lock. Place the tip of a screwdriver into the slot and twist and pull the shim upwards. This will open the latches and screws that hold the knobs in place and allow them to be removed.
4. You're tired of the same old keys
It's easy to upgrade your door lock to increase the security of your home. This is an excellent DIY project, particularly if your move frequently or you are a landlord who requires replacement locks for tenants. Learn the steps for replacing a door lock and you'll be able to do it yourself in just a few hours.
Even even if you are familiar with and trust the previous tenants or homeowners it is best to play it safe by installing new locks. You never know who might have keys from the past. This includes family members, friends, contractors and babysitters. In fact, 67% of unlawful entry is committed by those with a key to your home.
Before you start, ensure you purchase a lock replacement that's compatible with the existing hardware and dimensions. Depending on the design of your door, you can choose from deadbolt locks or a doorknob lock. Once you've received your new lock then follow these steps to install it:
Start by removing both the knobs that were previously attached to the door. Remove the screws that hold the latch plate at the edge of the front door. Once you've done this, remove the latch plate as well as the two screws that hold the strike plate or deadbolt plate into the door jamb.
Utilizing the template included with your lock set, mark the positions of the knob/handle inside and the latch on the face of the door. Ensure that the spindle (the long metal piece that is affixed to the knob on the outside) passes through the latch and operates smoothly. Attach the interior handle/knob with the screws provided and insert the lock cylinder into the latch, ensuring that it is properly aligned and works with the key.
Attach the deadbolt plates and strike plates using the screws included in your replacement lock set. Check your new lock when you're done to make sure it's functioning properly and that the inside knob can slide smoothly over the pins. Reassemble everything in reverse order.