When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are designed to ensure that your family and possessions are safe. However, they may be damaged or worn out with time. There are a few telltale indicators that indicate it's time to consider replacing or rekeying your lock.
While replacing locks is more involved than rekeying, it could be done at home. Here are a few of the top reasons to consider it:
1. You're moving to a brand new home
The locks on your door are a crucial aspect of the security of your home. It is easy for burglars to gain access to damaged locks. It is important to recognize the indicators that indicate when it's time to replace your window.
If you are moving into a new house, then it is recommended to get the locks changed. This will make sure that you are the sole owner of the keys and remove any suspicion that previous residents might have entered your house without your permission.
The installation of a new lock is an easy process. First, you'll need remove the lock that you currently have. It is possible to remove the screws holding the knob or handle in place by using a screwdriver. Next, make use of a template supplied by the new lock set to mark the location of the knob/handle and 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 made. It is essential that the deadbolt, strike plate and door frame are all in line. The bolt should extend around 1/2 inch past the edge of the door and should be sufficiently tight to secure the door.
It's also a good idea to have the hinges replaced, as they can be damaged by a strong collision with the lock or strike plate. If the lock is hard to operate, it may be time to replace. It is best to let an expert locksmith replace the locks for you. This will ensure that the job is completed quickly and efficiently.
You might also want to replace your locks if you've terminated an agreement to rent or a roommate. It's impossible to tell who might have copies of your keys, so changing the locks is a prudent step. It also ensures that your belongings and family are secure.
2. You're having difficulty opening the door.
A broken lock can be a nightmare especially if it occurs to one of your main entry doors. But the good thing is that there are easy steps you can take to ensure that the situation does not get any worse and that you are able to open your door as quickly as you can.
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.
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 can be opened when needed. This is a good solution for most people. However in the event that the issue persists, you may need to talk to a locksmith.
If your door lock is more than 10 years old It's likely time to replace it. This is because door locks are not designed to last for the entire lifetime of a door, and even the highest quality door locks will typically need to be replaced at some point.
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 replacement that will fit properly. For instance the cylinder locks are available in different shapes to accommodate various door thicknesses. replace door lock is also possible to replace the entire door when the frame of your door has been damaged. The new lock will require the latch plate and strike plate to be fitted into the frame. These are available separately.
3. You're worried that there could be an armed robbery
A burglary can cause you to be concerned about the security of your home. Whether the culprits left behind their marks (crowbar marks on the door frame) or it's evident that they've been inside (smoothed wood around the lock and a damaged lock knob) You must ensure your security by replacing your locks and ensuring they are as secure as possible.
Even if you believe in the previous owners, there's no way to determine who else could have had a copy of the key. 67% of the crime is committed by those who have keys and therefore changing locks is a good preventative measure.
If the knobs are clogged or are difficult to open, this is another indication that your locks need to be replaced. This indicates that the mechanism within has been damaged through manipulation, or simply due to wear and tear from age. It leaves it vulnerable to being damaged.
If you're experiencing any of these issues you should consider installing a keyless lock instead. These locks do away with the necessity for keys and can be programmed to allow access for only one time for pet-sitters or contractors. You can also buy door locks that have keys. This lets you get into the house without touching anything.
The purchase of a new lock isn't just about security and safety It can also be a way to modernize your home's look. Depending on the design of your door, you can find locks that will complement it perfectly.
Talk to an expert locksmith in your area when you are ready change locks. They can help you choose the appropriate lock and install it quickly. Before calling a locksmith, be sure to take measurements of your door. The door's thickness is crucial to ensure that the lock you choose fits correctly. If your door is more thick than average, you may require a custom lock that fits securely. Start by placing a wooden shim against the door with the tapered edge against the slot of the lock. Place the tip of a screwdriver into the slot and then twist to pull the shim upwards. This will let the latch open and the screws holding the knobs in place and allow you to remove them.
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 a fantastic DIY project, particularly if your move frequently or you are a landlord who requires replacement locks for tenants. You can change a door lock within a matter of minutes if you know the steps.
Installing new locks is a good idea in the case that you trust and know the previous tenants or homeowners. You never know who could have keys from the past. This includes friends, family members contractors, babysitters, and contractors. In reality, 67% of unlawful entry is committed by those who have keys to your home.
Before you begin, be sure you purchase a lock replacement that's compatible with the existing hardware and measurements. Depending on the design of your door, you could pick deadbolt locks or a doorknob lock. Once you've received your new lock then follow these steps to install it:
Start by removing both knobs that were previously attached to the door. Remove the screws that hold the latch plate at the edge of the front door. After that remove the latch plate and the two screws that secure the strike plate or deadbolt plate to the jamb of the door.
Utilizing the template included with your lock set, mark the positions of the interior handle/knob and the latch on the front of the door. The spindle (the metal piece that protrudes from the knob's exterior) should pass through the latch smoothly. Attach the interior handle/knob with the screws provided. Install the lock cylinder into the latch inside. Check that it is correctly aligned and the key works with the lock.
Attach the deadbolt and strike plates with the screws that are included in your new lock set. After you've completed the process, test your new lock to ensure that it functions correctly and that the knob inside slides easily over the pins. Afterward, put everything back together in reverse order, and you're done!