When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are designed to protect your belongings and family secure. However, they may be damaged or worn out with time. There are a few telltale signs that it's time to consider replacing or rekeying your lock.
Although lock replacement is a more in-depth process than rekeying, it could be accomplished at home. Here are some main reasons to think about it:
1. You're moving to a new home
The locks on your doors are a vital element of your home's security. It's easy for burglars to gain access to locks that are damaged. You must be aware of the indicators that indicate it's time to replace your window.
It is a good idea if you are moving to a new home, to change the locks. This will ensure that you are the only one with keys and remove any suspicions of unauthorised entry from previous residents.
New lock installation is an easy process. First, you'll need to remove the old lock. This can be accomplished using a screwdriver in order to remove the screws that hold the knob or handle in place. 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. After you have marked the positions, you are able to drill the hole for the face according to the lock specifications.
Install the new lock after the holes have been drilled. It is important to ensure that the deadbolt as well as the strike plate fit properly to the door frame. The bolt should extend about 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the door, and should be strong enough to ensure the door is secured.
It is also an excellent idea to get hinges replaced, since these can easily become damaged by a hard impact on the lock or strike plate. If the lock is hard to operate, it could be time to replace. It is best to have a professional locksmith replace your locks on your behalf, as this will guarantee that the job is done efficiently and swiftly.
There are numerous other reasons to change your locks, such as ending a lease or roommate agreement. It's impossible to know who may have an unofficial copy of your key thus changing the locks is a wise precaution. It will also ensure that your belongings and family are secure.
2. You're having trouble opening the door.
A broken lock is an unnerving experience. Particularly when it occurs on the main entrance door. But the good thing is that there are easy steps you can follow to ensure that it doesn't get any worse and you can get access to your door as soon as you can.
The first step is to check your door lock to ensure that it isn't simply misaligned. It may be as easy as tightening one or two screws to fix the issue. If this doesn't solve the issue, there could be an issue with the internal mechanisms of your door lock.
Then, apply an oil-based lubricant to test to see if it helps unlock the locking mechanism. The concept behind this is to allow the key to slide more easily into and out of the lock so that it is able to be opened when necessary. This is a suitable solution for most people. However should the issue persist, you may need to consult an expert locksmith.
If your door lock is more than 10 years old, you should consider replacing it. Door locks aren't made to last the life of the door. Even the top quality door locks must be changed at some point.
To change your lock, you will need to remove the lock you have currently. After this it's crucial to measure the thickness of your door to ensure you will be able to find a replacement lock that is a good fit. For instance, cylinders come in different shapes that can accommodate a variety of door thicknesses. 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 need to be secured to the frame with a latch plate or strike plate as well as a deadbolt, all of which are available as separate items.
3. You're worried that there will be an armed robbery
The occurrence of a break-in could shake your faith in the security of your home. If the culprits have left their mark on the door frame (crowbar marks) or it is obvious that they were inside (smoothed out the wood around your lock knob, broken lock), then you should replace your locks to ensure they are as safe and secure as you can.
Even if you trust the previous owners, there is no way to determine who else could have had a copy of the key. Keys holders are responsible for 67% of all illicit entry. Changing your locks is an effective way to prevent this from happening.
Another indicator that you should replace your locks is if the knobs appear to be squeezing or are difficult to open. This is a sign that the mechanism within has been damaged through tampering, or simply wear and tear caused by age. door lock replacement leaves it vulnerable to damage.
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 need access. You can also get door locks that have keys, which allow you to enter the premises without touching anything.
A new lock can be used to change the appearance of your home. It's not only about safety. Depending on the style of your door, you'll be able to find locks that complement it perfectly.
If you're looking to switch locks contact a local locksmith. They can assist you in choosing the right type of lock and install it swiftly. Before you contact a locksmith, make sure to measure your door. The door's thickness is crucial to ensure that the replacement lock fits properly. If your door is thicker, you may need a lock that's custom-made to fit securely. Start by placing an shim made of wood on the door and the tapered edge against the slot of the lock. Slide the screwdriver's tip into the slot, then turn to pull the shim upwards. This will release the latches and screws that keep the knobs in place and allow them to be removed.
4. You're tired of the same old keys
Replacing the door lock is a simple upgrade that will increase the security of your home. This is an excellent DIY option, especially when you move frequently or you are a landlord that has to change locks on tenants. You can replace a door lock within a matter of minutes if you know the steps.
Even even if you are familiar with and trust the previous landlords or homeowners, it's recommended to be safe by installing new locks. You never know who may have the keys. This includes family members, friends and contractors as well as babysitters. In fact, 6-7 percent of illegal entry is committed by people who have keys to your home.
Before starting, make sure you purchase a lock replacement that's compatible with your existing hardware and measurements. Based on the style of your door, you could pick a deadbolt lock or a doorknob lock. Follow these steps to install your new lock:
Begin by removing the knobs on both sides of the door. Then, take out the screws that hold the latch plate to the edge of the door. Once this is done, remove the latch plate and the two screws that hold the strike plate or deadbolt plate to the jamb.
Using the template that comes with the lock set, mark the locations of the interior handle/knob and the latch on the front of the door. The spindle (the metal piece that is protruding from the exterior knob) should slide through the latch without difficulty. Then, attach the interior handle/knob with the screws supplied and insert the lock cylinder into your interior latch, making sure it is properly aligned and works with the key.
Then, attach the deadbolt and strike plate with the screws included in your new lock installed to secure them in place. After you've completed the process, test your new lock to ensure it operates correctly and that the knob inside can slide easily over the pins. Reassemble everything in reverse order.