When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks help keep your belongings and family members safe, but over time they'll wear down or be damaged. There are some telltale signs it's time for you to change or rekey your lock.
Even though lock replacement is more complicated than rekeying, it is possible to do it at home. Here are some of the most compelling reasons to consider it:
1. You're moving to a brand new house
Your door locks are an essential part of your home security. If they're damaged or broken, it can be easy for burglars to gain access. This is why it's important to know when it's time for the replacement.
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 person with keys and eliminate any suspicions of unauthorized entry by previous residents.
Installing the new lock is a straightforward process. First, you will need to take off the old lock. This can be accomplished by using a screwdriver to take out the screws that hold the handle or knob in place. Next, make use of a template supplied by the new lock set to mark the location of the knob/handle and latch. After you've marked the positions, drill the face hole to conform to the specifications of the lock.
After drilling the holes and the lock is installed, you must install the new lock. It is vital that the deadbolt, strike plate, and door frame are all aligned. The bolt should extend around 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the door, and should be sufficiently tight to ensure the door is secured.
It's also an excellent idea to get hinges replaced as these can easily become damaged by a hard collision with the lock or strike plate. If replace lock in upvc door is hard to operate, it may be time to replace it. It is recommended to have a professional locksmith change the locks for you and ensure that the job is done efficiently and swiftly.
There are many other reasons to replace your locks, for instance ending a lease or roommate agreement. It is impossible to know who may have duplicate keys to your key. It is therefore a prudent precaution. This will ensure the security of your household and belongings.
2. You are having trouble opening the door.
A broken lock can be a nightmare, especially when it happens to one of your main entry doors. There are a few simple steps you can follow to stop the issue from getting worse and to be able to open the door as soon as you are able to.
First, make sure that your door lock isn't just misaligned. It may be as easy as tightening some screws in the event that this is the issue. It is important to remember that if this does not solve the issue, then there is likely something wrong with the internal mechanics of your door lock.
Next, use a lubricant and see if it helps to unstick the locking mechanism. This will help keys slide into and out of the locks more easily, which allows them to be opened. This is a great solution for most people. However should the issue persist it is possible to talk to a locksmith.
If your door lock is older than 10 years, you should consider replacing it. This is because door locks aren't made to last the full life of a door, and even the highest quality door locks will typically require replacement at some point in time.
To replace your lock you will need to remove the lock that you currently have. After this it is important to determine the thickness of your door to ensure you can find a replacement that is suitable for your door. For example, cylinders come in various shapes that are able to accommodate a variety of door thicknesses. You may also have to replace the entire door when the frame of your door has been damaged. The new lock will require an latch plate and strike plate to be inserted into the frame. They are sold separately.
3. You're worried about a break-in
The occurrence of a break-in could shake your faith in the security of your home. If the culprits have left their marks on your door's frame (crowbar marks) or it is clear that they were in the house (smoothed out wood around the lock, broken lock knob) Then you must replace your locks to ensure that they are as secure and safe as they can be.
Even if you are sure of the previous owners, there is no way to tell who else might have received the key. Keys holders are responsible for a minimum of 67% of unlawful entry. Change your locks is a good preventative measure.
Another sign that you should replace your locks is if the knobs seem to be stuck or difficult to open. This indicates that the internal mechanism is damaged due to tampering, or simply wear and tear caused by age. It exposes it to being damaged.
Consider installing a lock that is keyless If you're having any of these problems. They eliminate the necessity for keys and can be programmed to permit access for only one time for pet-sitters, contractors, or contractors. You can also purchase door locks with keypads. This allows you to access your home without touching anything.
Getting a new lock isn't just about safety and security, it can also be a method to modernize your home's look. You can find locks to match the design of your door.
Contact a locksmith in your neighborhood in case you are ready to change locks. They can assist you in choosing the right type of lock and install it swiftly. Be sure to measure the door before you call a professional locksmith. The door's thickness is essential to ensuring the lock you choose fits correctly. If your door is more thick it may require a lock that is custom-made to fit securely. Begin by putting an shim made of wood on the door and the tapered edge positioned against the slot of the lock. Slide the tip of a screwdriver into the slot and twist to pull the shim upwards. This will release the latch and the screws that hold the knobs in place which will allow you to take them off. them.
4. You're tired of the same old keys
It is easy to upgrade your door lock and increase the security of your house. It's also an excellent DIY technique to master, particularly in the event that you frequently move or are a landlord who needs to replace locks for tenants. Learn the steps for replacing the lock on your door and you'll be able do it yourself in a few short hours.
Installing new locks is a good idea even in the case that you trust and know the previous tenants or homeowners. After all, you never know how many people could have a copy of the old keys, including family, friends contractors, babysitters, and even contractors. In fact, 6-7 percent of illegal entry is committed by those who have keys to your home.
Be sure to purchase an upgrade lock that matches the existing hardware and dimensions. Based on the style of your door, you could select deadbolt locks or doorknob lock. Follow these steps to install your new lock:
Start by removing both knobs that were on the door. Then, remove the screws that attach the latch plate to the door's edge. After removing the screws remove the latchplate and the two screws holding the strike plate or deadbolt plate to the door jamb.
Mark the position of the handle/knob inside on the door by using the template supplied with the lock set. The spindle (the metal piece that is protruding from the exterior knob) must pass through the latch without difficulty. Then, attach the interior handle/knob with the screws supplied and insert the lock cylinder into your interior latch, ensuring that it is in the correct position and functions with the key.
Attach the deadbolt plates and strike plates with the screws that are included in your new lock set. Test your new lock once you're done to confirm that it's working as intended and that the knob inside can slide smoothly over the pins. Reassemble everything in reverse order.