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 be damaged or worn out with over time. There are a few indicators that indicate it's time to change or rekey your lock.
Although replacing locks is more complicated than rekeying, it can be accomplished at home. Here are some of the most compelling reasons to consider it:
1. You're moving into a brand new home
The locks on your door are an essential element of your home security. If they're damaged it's possible for burglars to gain access. You must be aware of the signs that it's time to replace your window.
It is a good idea in the event of moving into a new house changing the locks. This will make sure that you are the sole owner of keys and eliminate any suspicion that previous residents could have entered your home without permission.
New lock installation is a straightforward procedure. First, you'll need to remove the existing lock. This can be done by using a screwdriver in order to remove the screws that keep the knob or handle in place. Next, make use of a template supplied by the new lock set to mark the location of the handle/knob and latch. Once you've marked the locations, drill the face hole to match the specifications of your lock.
Once the holes are drilled and the lock is installed, you must install the new lock. It is essential that the deadbolt, strike plates and door frame are all matched. The bolt should extend about 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the door and should be sufficiently tight to secure it.
A hard impact on a strike plate or lock could easily cause damage to the hinges. If the lock is hard to operate, it might be time to replace it. It's best to have the professional locksmith change your locks for you, as this will guarantee that the job will be done correctly and quickly.
There are many other reasons to change your locks, like ending a roommate or rental agreement. It is impossible to determine who might have copies of your keys thus changing the locks is a good idea. This will ensure the safety of your household and belongings.
2. You are having difficulty opening the door
A broken lock can be an unnerving experience. Particularly when it happens at the entrance to your home. But the good news is that there are some easy steps you can take to ensure it doesn't get worse and that you are able to open your door as soon as possible.
The first step is to look at your door lock to ensure that it isn't simply misaligned. It could be as simple as tightening some screws in the event that this is the issue. If this doesn't solve the issue, it could be an issue with the internal mechanisms of your door lock.
Next, use an oil-based lubricant to see if it helps to remove the locking mechanism. The purpose of this is to help 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 in the event that the issue persists it is possible to talk to an expert locksmith.
If your door lock is more than 10 years old it is time to consider replacing it. Door locks are not meant to last the life of the door. Even the top quality door locks need to be changed at some point.
In order to replace the lock, you'll need to remove the lock you have from your door. After that it is important to measure the thickness of your door to ensure you can find a lock that is a good fit. For example Cylinder locks come in a variety of shapes to fit different thicknesses of doors. It is also important to remember that if your door frame has been damaged in some way, you will need to replace the entire door. This is because the new lock will need to be secured to the frame using the latch plate, strike plate, and deadbolt. All of these are available as separate items.
3. You're worried about a burglary
The possibility of a burglary can shake confidence in the security of your home. If the culprits have left marks on the door frame (crowbar marks) or it is obvious that they were in the house (smoothed out the wood around the lock, broken lock knob) Then you must replace your locks to ensure that they are as secure and safe as possible.
Even if you believe in the previous owners, there's no way to tell who else might have received the key. Keys holders are responsible for 6-7% of all illicit entry. Changing your locks is a good preventative measure.
Another sign that you should replace your locks is if the knobs seem to be squeezing or are difficult to open. This is a sign that the mechanism within has been damaged through manipulation, or simply due to age-related wear. It makes it more vulnerable to being damaged.
Consider installing a lock that is keyless If you're experiencing any of these problems. They eliminate the requirement for keys and can be programmed to allow access for only one time for pet-sitters, contractors, or contractors. You can also buy door locks that have keypads. This allows you to enter the house without touching anything.
A new lock isn't only about security and safety, it can also be a way to update the look of your home. There are locks that fit the design of your door.
Speak to a locksmith in your area in case you are ready to switch locks. They can assist you in selecting the right lock and install it quickly. Before you call a locksmith, be certain to measure your door. The thickness of the door is vital to ensure that the lock is properly fitted. If your door is thicker than the average, you might need to get a custom-made lock that can be fitted securely. The best way to begin is by placing a wood shim directly against the door and then putting it with the tapered edge against the slot for the lock. Then, slide the screwdriver's tip into the slot, then turn it upwards, bringing the shim up. This will let the latch open and the screws that hold the knobs in place, allowing you to remove them.
4. You're tired of the same old keys
Replacing your door lock is an easy upgrade that can add to the security of your home. This is a fantastic DIY project, particularly when you move frequently or you are a landlord that needs to replace locks on tenants. You can replace a door lock in a matter of hours when you know the steps.
Installing new locks is a good idea if you trust and know the previous owners or tenants. You never know who may have the old keys. repairmywindowsanddoors includes friends, family members contractors, babysitters, and contractors. In reality, 67 percent of illegal entry is committed by those with a key to your home.
Before you begin, be sure to purchase a replacement lock that's compatible with the existing hardware and measurements. Depending on the style of your door, you could pick a deadbolt lock or a doorknob lock. Follow these steps to install your new lock:
Start by removing both the knobs that were on the door. Remove the screws holding the latch plate on the edge of the front door. After removing the screws remove the latchplate and the two screws that secure the strike plate or the deadbolt plate to the door jamb.
Mark the location of the interior handle/knob on the door by using the template supplied with your lock set. Make sure that the spindle (the long piece of metal that sticks out of the knob on the outside) can pass through the latch and operates smoothly. Then, attach the knob or handle to the inside using the screws provided and insert the lock cylinder into the interior latch, ensuring that it aligns correctly and operates with the key.
Attach the deadbolt and strike plates using the screws included in your new lock set. Check your new lock when you're done to confirm that it's functioning properly and that the inside knob is able to slide over the pins. Afterward put everything back together in reverse order, and you're all set!