When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are designed to ensure that your family and possessions are secure. However, they can get worn out or interfere with time. There are some telltale signs that it's time to consider replacing or rekeying the lock.
While lock replacement is a more complex process than rekeying it can be done at home. Here are the important reasons to think about it:
1. You're moving to a new house
Your door locks are a vital element of your home's security. If they're damaged or broken, it can be easy 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 house It's an ideal idea to have the locks changed. This will ensure that you are the only one with keys and will make it impossible to suspect unauthorized entry by previous residents.
The installation of a new lock is a straightforward process. First, you'll need to remove the old lock. You can take out the screws holding the knob or handle in place by using the screwdriver. Then, you can use a template provided by the new lock set to mark the location of the knob/handle and latch. Once you have identified the positions, you can drill the face hole according to the lock specifications.
After the holes have been drilled, you will need to install the new lock. It is crucial that the deadbolt, strike plate and door frame are all in line. The bolt should extend around 1/2 inch beyond the door's edge and be tight enough to ensure it is secure.
A hard impact on a strike plate or lock can easily damage the hinges. If the lock is difficult to operate, then this could indicate that it's time to get a replacement. It is best to have a professional locksmith change your locks for you and ensure that the job is completed correctly and quickly.
You may also want to change your locks if you've gotten rid of an agreement to rent or a roommate. It is difficult to determine who might have duplicate keys to your key. The need to change the locks is therefore a wise step. It also ensures that your family and belongings are secure.
2. you could look here having difficulty opening the door
A broken lock can be a nightmare. Particularly when it occurs at the entrance to your home. There are a few easy steps you can follow to stop the issue from becoming worse and to be able to open the door as soon as you can.
The first step is to examine your door lock to ensure that it's not just misaligned. It could be as simple as tightening a few screws if this is the problem. It is important to keep in mind that if this doesn't resolve the issue then there's something wrong with the internal mechanics of the door lock.
Next, try using an oil-based lubricant to see if this will help to unstick the lock. This will help keys slide into and out of the locks more easily, making it possible for them to be opened. This is a suitable solution for most people. However in the event that the issue persists it is possible to consult a locksmith.
Finally, if your door lock is more than a decade It's likely the time to get a new one. Door locks are not meant to last for the lifetime of the door. Even the most durable door locks must be replaced at some point.
In order to replace your lock, you'll need to remove the current lock from your door. After this it's crucial to determine the thickness of your door to ensure that you will be able to find a replacement lock that will fit properly. For example Cylinder locks come in various shapes to fit various thicknesses of doors. You may also have to replace your entire door when the frame of your door has been damaged. This is because the new lock will have to be secured to the frame using the latch plate or strike plate and deadbolt, which are all available separately.
3. You're worried about a break-in
A break-in can make you think twice about the security of your home. Whether the culprits left behind their mark (crowbar marks in the door frame) or it's clear that they've been inside (smoothed wood around the lock and a damaged knobs on the lock) It is important to restore your confidence by replacing your locks and ensuring they are as secure as they can be.
Even if you were able to trust the previous owners, it's difficult to determine if someone else has copies. 6-7percent of illegal entry is committed by those who have keys, so changing your locks is a great preventative measure.
Another sign that you should replace your locks is if the knobs appear to be stuck or difficult to open. This indicates that the mechanism inside the lock is damaged due to alteration or just wear and tear, making it vulnerable to damage and eventual failure.
If you're experiencing any of these issues think about installing a door lock that is keyless instead. These locks eliminate the need for keys and can be programmed with one-time access codes for contractors and pet sitters who require access. You can also buy door locks that have keypads. This allows you to enter the house without touching anything.
The purchase of a new lock isn't just about safety and security it could also be a means to modernize your home's look. There are locks that be a match to the design of your door.
If you're looking to switch locks consult an experienced locksmith in your area. They can assist you in selecting the appropriate lock and install it quickly. Make sure you measure your door before you call an expert locksmith. The thickness of the door is vital to ensure that the lock is properly fitted. If your door is more thick than average, you might require a custom lock that can be fitted securely. A good 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. Slide the tip of the screwdriver into the slot and then turn by pulling the shim up. This will let loose the latches and screws that hold the knobs in position, allowing them to be removed.
4. You're tired of the same keys
Replacing your door lock is an easy upgrade that can increase the security of your home. This is a fantastic DIY skill, especially in the event that you frequently move or you are a landlord who needs to replace locks on tenants. You can change a door lock in a matter of hours if you know the steps.
Even when you trust the previous tenants or homeowners it is recommended to be safe by installing new locks. You never know who could have the keys. This includes friends, family members contractors, babysitters, and contractors. In reality those with access to your house are responsible for a minimum of 67 percent of all illegal entries.
Before you start, ensure you purchase a lock replacement that's compatible with the existing hardware and dimensions. You can pick between a deadbolt or a knob lock depending on the design of the door. Follow these steps to install your new lock:
Start by removing both the old knobs from the door. Then, remove the screws that secure the latch plate to the edge of the door. After that, remove the latch plate and the two screws that secure the strike plate or deadbolt plate to the jamb.
The location of the interior handle/knob on the door using the template included with your lock set. The spindle (the metal piece that is protruding from the knob's exterior) must pass through the latch with ease. Attach the handle/knob to the interior using the screws supplied. Place the lock cylinder in the latch inside. Make sure that it is properly aligned and that the key is working with the lock.
Attach the strike plates and deadbolt plates using the screws provided in the set of replacement locks. After you've completed, test your new lock to make sure it works properly and the inside knob can slide easily over the pins. Reassemble everything in reverse order.