When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks help keep your possessions and family secure however, over time they may wear out or be altered. There are some telltale signs it's time for you to replace or change the key on your lock.
Even though replacing locks is more complicated than rekeying, it can be done at home. Here are some top reasons why you should consider it:
1. You're moving into a new home
The locks on your doors are a crucial 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 it's time to replace your window.
It is a good idea when you move into a new house and you want to change the locks. This will make sure that you are the sole owner of keys and eliminate any suspicions that previous residents might have entered your house without permission.
Installing an entirely new lock is an easy procedure. First, you'll need take off the lock you have already installed. This can be accomplished by using a screwdriver to take out the screws that hold the knob or handle in the position. Utilize the template supplied with the new lock to mark the position of the knob/handle, and latch. After you've marked the positions, you can drill the face hole to conform to the specifications of your lock.
After the holes have been drilled, you will need to install the new lock. It is important to ensure that the deadbolt as well as the strike plate fit properly with the existing door frame. The bolt should extend about 1/2 inch past the edge of the door and should be strong enough to secure the door.
It's also an excellent idea to get the hinges replaced, as these can easily become damaged from a sharp hit on the strike plate or lock. If door locks replacement is difficult to operate, it could be time to replace it. It is recommended to have a professional locksmith replace the locks for you to ensure that the job is done quickly and efficiently.
There are many other reasons to replace your locks, such as ending a lease or roommate agreement. It is impossible to tell who may have duplicate keys to your key. Changing the locks is therefore a wise step. It will also ensure that your belongings and family are safe.
2. You are having difficulty opening the door
A broken lock can be a nightmare, especially when it occurs to one of your primary entry doors. There are a few steps you can take to prevent the issue from getting worse and to be capable of opening the door as soon as you can.
First, make sure that the lock on your door isn't simply out of alignment. If this is the case, it may be as simple as tightening a few of the screws. If this doesn't fix the issue, it could be an issue with the internal mechanisms of the door lock.
Then, try the lubricant and test if this can help to unstick the lock. This will help keys slide into and out of the locks more easily, which allows them to be opened. This is a common solution for most people, but it's important to keep in mind that if your issue persists, then there could be another issue and you'll need to consult locksmith.
If your door lock is older than 10 years it is recommended to replace it. Door locks are not meant to last for the lifetime of the door. Even the best quality door locks need to be changed at some point.
To replace your lock, you will need to remove the lock you have currently. After that it's crucial to measure the thickness of your door to ensure you will be able to find a replacement lock that will fit properly. For instance, cylinder locks come in various shapes to fit various thicknesses of doors. It is also important to note that if your door frame is damaged in any way, you'll have to replace the entire door. This is because the new lock needs to be secured into the frame using plates for latching or strike plate and deadbolt, which are all available in separate.
3. You're worried there will be an armed robbery
The occurrence of a break-in can shake confidence in the security of your home. If the perpetrators have left marks on your door frame (crowbar marks) or it is obvious that they were inside (smoothed out the wood around your lock, broken lock knob) Then you must replace your locks to ensure they are as secure and secure as you can.
Even if you believe in the previous owners, there is no way to determine who else might have received a copy of the key. 67% of the crime is committed by those who have keys and therefore changing 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 is a sign that the mechanism inside the lock is damaged due to the tampering of your locks or simply wear and tear, which makes the lock vulnerable to failure and damage.
If you're experiencing any of these issues you should consider installing a keyless door lock instead. 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 doors that have keys, which allow you to enter without touching anything.
A new lock can update the look of your home. It's not only about security. Depending on the design of your door, you can find locks that complement it perfectly.
If you're looking to switch locks consult the local locksmith. They can assist you in selecting the appropriate lock and then install it quickly. Be sure to measure your door before you call an expert locksmith. The thickness of the door is crucial to ensure that the lock is properly fitted. If your door is more thick than average, you might need to get a custom-made lock that fits securely. Begin by placing an shim made of wood on the door, with the tapered edge placed against the slot of the lock. Then, slide the tip of the screwdriver into the slot and then turn upwards, bringing the shim up. This will let the latch open and the screws that hold the knobs in place which will allow you to take them off. them.
4. You're tired with the same keys
It is easy to upgrade your door lock and increase the security of your home. This is a fantastic DIY project, particularly in the event that you frequently move or you are a landlord that needs to replace locks on tenants. You can replace a door lock within a matter of minutes when you know the steps.
Even even if you are familiar with and trust the previous tenants or homeowners, it's best to protect yourself by installing new locks. In the end, you don't know how many people may have a copy of the old keys, including friends, family members contractors, babysitters, and contractors. In reality, 67 percent of illegal entry is committed by people who have keys to your home.
Before you start, ensure to buy a new lock that's compatible with the existing hardware and dimensions. Based on the style of your door, you could choose from deadbolt locks or doorknob lock. Follow these steps to install your new lock:
Begin by removing the knobs on both sides of the door. Then, remove the screws that hold the latch plate to the edge of the door. After removing the screws, take the latchplate off and remove the two screws that hold the strike plate or the deadbolt plate to the jamb of the door.
Find the location of the knob or handle on the door using the template included with the lock set. The spindle (the metal piece that protrudes from the knob on the outside) should slide through the latch smoothly. Attach the interior handle/knob using the provided screws. Install the lock cylinder in the latch in the interior. Check that it is correctly aligned and the key works with the lock.
Attach the deadbolt plates 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 knob inside is able to slide over the pins. After that, put everything back in reverse order and you're done!