When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks help keep your family and possessions secure but, over time, they'll wear down or be tampered with. There are certain indicators that tell you it's time to replace or rekey your lock.
Even though replacing locks is more complex than rekeying it can be accomplished at home. Here are a few most compelling reasons to consider it:
1. You're moving to a new home
Your door locks are a vital element of your home's security. When they're damaged it's possible for burglars to gain entry. It is important to recognize the signs that it's time to replace your window.
It is a good idea, if you are moving into a new residence and you want to change the locks. This will ensure that you're the only one with keys, and make it impossible to suspect unauthorized entry from previous residents.
Installing the new lock is a simple process. First, you'll need to take off the lock you have already installed. This can be done by using a screwdriver to take out the screws that hold the knob or handle in the position. Then, use a template provided 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 can drill the face hole according to the specifications of the lock.
Once the holes are drilled and the lock is installed, you must install the new lock. It is essential that the deadbolt, strike plates and door frame are all matched. The bolt should extend approximately 1/2 inch past the edge of the door and should be sufficiently tight to ensure the door is secured.
It's also recommended to have hinges replaced, since they can be damaged by a strong collision with the strike plate or lock. If the lock is difficult to operate, it could be time to replace. It is best to let a professional locksmith change the locks for you. This will ensure that the work is done quickly and properly.
You might also want to change your locks if you've ended a lease or roommate agreement. It is impossible to determine who might have a copy of your key, so changing the locks is a prudent step. This will ensure the security of your family and possessions.
2. You are having trouble opening the door
A broken lock can be a nightmare. Especially when it occurs on your main entry door. But the good thing is that there are easy steps you can follow to ensure it doesn't get any worse and you can get access to your door again as soon as you can.
First, check that the lock on your door isn't just misaligned. It could be as simple as tightening one or two screws in the event that this is the issue. It is important to remember, though, that if this does not solve the problem then there's something wrong with the internal mechanics that operate the door lock.
Next, use an oil-based lubricant to check if it helps remove the locking mechanism. The idea behind this is to help the key slide more easily into and out of the lock so that it can be opened when necessary. This is a common solution for the majority of people, but it is important to remember that if your problem continues to persist then there could be a different issue, and you will need to speak with locksmith.
If your door lock is older than 10 years old It's likely the time to get a new one. This is because door locks are not made to last the full lifetime of a door, and even the most durable door locks are likely to need to be replaced at some point.
To replace your lock you will need to remove your existing lock. After you have removed the lock, you'll need to determine the thickness of your door to ensure that the replacement will be suitable. For example, cylinders come in a variety of shapes that can accommodate different thicknesses of doors. It is also important to note that if the frame of your door is damaged in any way, you'll need to replace the entire door. This is because the new lock will need to be secured into the frame with the latch plate or strike plate and deadbolt. All of these are available in separate.
3. You're worried that there could be an armed robbery
The possibility of a burglary can shake your faith in the security of your home. The perpetrators may have left their marks (crowbar marks in the door frame) or it's evident that they're inside (smoothed wood around the lock and a broken lock knob) You must give yourself renewed confidence by changing your locks and making sure they are as secure as they can be.
Even if you believed in the previous owners, it's impossible to know if anyone else has copies. 6-7% of unlawful entry is committed by people who have a key and therefore changing locks is an effective preventative measure.
If the knobs are clogged or difficult to open, it is a indication that your locks need to be replaced. This indicates that the internal mechanism of the lock is damaged due to tampering or just age-related wear and tear, which makes the lock vulnerable to damage and eventual failure.
You should consider installing a keyless lock If you're experiencing any of these problems. These locks eliminate the requirement for keys and can be programmed to permit access only for pet-sitters, contractors, or contractors. You can also purchase door locks with a keypad. This allows you to access your home without touching anything.
A new lock can update the look of your home. It's not just about security. Based on the design of your door, you'll choose locks that match it perfectly.
If you're looking to change locks contact a local locksmith. They can help you choose the appropriate lock and install it quickly. Before calling a locksmith, make sure to take measurements of your door. It is important to measure the thickness of your door in order to ensure that the new lock will be fitted properly. If your door is larger than average, you may need to get a custom-made lock that can be installed securely. Begin by placing an shim made of wood on the door, with the tapered edge placed against the slot of the lock. Slide the tip of the screwdriver into the slot and then turn by pulling the shim up. This will open the latch and the screws holding the knobs in place and allow you to remove them.
4. upvc replacement door locks tired of the same old keys
The replacement of your door lock is a simple upgrade that can add to the security of your home. It's also an excellent DIY ability to have, particularly in the event that you frequently move or are a landlord who has to change locks for tenants. Learn the steps to replace locks on doors and you'll be able do it yourself in just a couple of hours.
Even when you trust the previous landlords or homeowners it is best to play it safe by installing new locks. After all, you never know how many people may have copies of your old keys, including relatives, friends contractors, babysitters, and even contractors. In reality, 67 percent of illegal entry is committed by those with a key to your home.
Make sure you purchase an appropriate replacement lock that is compatible with the current hardware and dimensions. You can pick between a deadbolt or a knob lock based on the design of the door. Follow these steps to install your new lock:
Start by removing both knobs that were previously attached to the door. Then, remove the screws that hold the latch plate to the edge of the door. After removing the screws, take off the latchplate as well as the two screws that hold the strike plate or the deadbolt plate to the jamb.
Find the location of the interior handle/knob on the door by using the template supplied with your lock set. Ensure that the spindle (the long piece of metal that sticks out of the knob's exterior) passes through the latch and operates smoothly. Then, attach the interior handle/knob with the screws provided and insert the lock cylinder into your interior latch, ensuring that it aligns correctly and operates with the key.
Attach the deadbolt and strike plates using the screws included in your replacement lock set. Once you've finished testing your new lock, make sure you test it to make sure it works properly and the interior knob slides easily over the pins. Then, reassemble everything in reverse order.