When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are designed to keep your family and belongings safe. However, they may be damaged or worn out with time. There are some telltale indicators that indicate it's time to think about replacing or rekeying your lock.
Even though replacing locks is more complex than rekeying it can be done at home. Here are a few top reasons to consider it:
1. You're moving into a brand new home
The locks on your doors are a vital part of your home's security. When they're damaged, it can be easy for burglars to gain access. You need to know the indicators that indicate it's time to replace your window.
It is a good idea, if you are moving into a new residence changing the locks. This will ensure you are the sole owner of keys and eliminate any suspicion that previous residents may have entered your home without your permission.
New lock installation is a simple procedure. First, you'll need remove the lock that you currently have. This can be done by using a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the handle or knob in place. Use the template included with the new lock to mark the position of the knob or handle, as well as the latch. Once you've marked the positions, you can drill the face hole in accordance with the lock specifications.
After drilling cost to replace upvc door lock mechanism Repair My Windows And Doors and the lock is installed, you must install the new lock. It is crucial to ensure that the deadbolt and strike plate fit well to the door frame. The bolt should extend about 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the doors and be strong enough to ensure it is secure.
It is also an excellent idea to get hinges replaced as they can be damaged from a sharp collision with the lock or strike plate. If the lock is difficult to operate, it might be time to replace it. It is recommended to have a professional locksmith change the locks for you. This will ensure that the task is done quickly and properly.
You may also want to change your locks if you've ended a lease or roommate agreement. It's impossible to know who may have a copy of your key and therefore changing your locks is a wise precaution. This will ensure the security of your family and possessions.
2. You're having trouble opening the door.
A broken lock can be a nightmare, especially when it occurs to one of your main entry doors. There are a few steps you can follow to prevent the problem from becoming worse and to be in a position to open the door as quickly as you are able to.
The first step is to check your door lock and make sure that it's not misaligned. It could be as simple as tightening one or two screws to fix the issue. It is important to keep in mind, though, that if this does not solve the issue then there's something wrong with the internal mechanics of the door lock.
Next, try applying the lubricant and see if this will help to free the lock. The concept behind this is to help the key to slide more easily in and out of the lock, so that it is able to be opened when necessary. This is a common solution for the majority of people, but it's important to remember that if your issue continues to persist then there could be another issue that is causing it and you'll have to speak with locksmith.
Finally, if your door lock is older than about 10 years old is it time for a replacement. Door locks are not meant to last for the entire life of the door. Even the top quality door locks have to be changed at some point.
To replace your lock you must take off the lock that you currently have. Once this is done, it's important to determine the thickness of your door to ensure you will be able to find a replacement lock that is a good fit. For instance Cylinder locks come in different shapes to accommodate various thicknesses of doors. It is also possible to replace your entire door in the event that the frame of your door has been damaged. This is because the new lock needs to be anchored into the frame using a latch plate, strike plate, and deadbolt, all of which are available in separate.
3. You're worried that there will be an attack
A burglary can cause you to think twice about the security of your house. The perpetrators may have left their mark (crowbar marks on your door frame) or it's evident that they're inside (smoothed wood around the lock and a broken lock knob) You must restore your security by changing your locks and making sure they are as secure as you can.
Even if you are sure of the previous owners, there is no way to tell who else could have had a copy of the key. 6-7percent of illegal entry is committed by those who have keys which is why changing locks is a great preventative measure.
If the knobs are stuck or difficult to open, it is a indication that your locks need to be replaced. This is a sign that the internal mechanism is damaged due to manipulation, or simply due to wear and tear from age. It makes it more vulnerable to being damaged.
Consider installing a lock that is keyless if you are experiencing any of these problems. These locks do away with the necessity for keys and can be programmed to allow access only for pet-sitters or contractors. You can also purchase doors that have a keypad, allowing you to open the door without touching anything.
A new lock can be used to improve the appearance of your home. It's not just about security. Depending on the design of your door, you can find locks that complement it perfectly.
If you're looking to switch locks, talk to an experienced locksmith in your area. They can help you choose the right type of lock and install it quickly. Before calling a locksmith, make certain to measure your door. The thickness of the door 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 can be installed securely. A good place to start is by placing a wood shim directly against the door and then putting it with the tapered edge facing the slot for the lock. Place the screwdriver's tip into the slot and twist and pull the shim upwards. This will release the latches and screws that hold the knobs in place and allow them to be removed.
4. You're tired of the same old keys
The replacement of your door lock is a simple upgrade that will increase the security of your home. It's also a great DIY technique to master, particularly when you move frequently or are a landlord who needs to replace locks for tenants. Learn the steps for replacing a door lock and you'll be able do it yourself in a few short hours.
Even even if you are familiar with and trust the previous tenants or homeowners It is best to play it safe by installing new locks. After all, you never know how many people could have copies of your keys from the past which includes relatives, friends contractors, babysitters, and contractors. In reality those with a key to your house are responsible for a minimum of 67% of all unlawful entries.
Before starting, make sure you purchase a lock replacement that is compatible with your existing hardware and dimensions. Depending on the style of your door, you can 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, take out the screws that attach the latch plate to the edge of the door. After removing the screws, remove the latchplate and the two screws that secure the strike plate or the deadbolt plate to the jamb of the door.
Find the position of the handle/knob inside on the door using the template included with your lock set. The spindle (the metal piece that protrudes from the knob's exterior) should pass through the latch without difficulty. 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.
Attach the deadbolt plates and strike plates using the screws provided in the set of replacement locks. Check your new lock when you're done to ensure it works correctly and that the interior knob slides over the pins easily. After that put everything back in reverse order and you're good to go!