When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks help keep your possessions and family secure but, over time, they'll wear down or be altered. There are some telltale signs it's time to change or change the key on your lock.
Even though replacing locks is more complex than rekeying it can be done at home. Here are a few best reasons to think about it:
1. You're moving into your new home
The locks on your door are an important element of your home's security. If they're damaged or broken, it can be easy for burglars to gain access. You must be aware of the indicators that indicate when it's time to replace your window.
If you are moving into a new residence It's an ideal idea to have the locks changed. This will ensure that you are the only one with keys and remove any suspicions of unauthorised entry from previous residents.
The installation of a new lock is an easy process. First, you'll need to take off the old lock. It is possible to remove the screws holding the knob or handle in place with the screwdriver. Then, utilize a template supplied by the new lock set to mark the position of the handle/knob as well as the latch. Once you've marked the positions, you are able to drill the hole for the face according to the lock specifications.
After the holes have been drilled and the lock is installed, you must install the new lock. It is crucial to ensure that the deadbolt as well as the strike plate are compatible with the existing door frame. The bolt should extend approximately 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the doors and should be sufficiently tight to ensure it is secure.
It is also recommended to have hinges replaced as these can easily become damaged by a hard hit on the strike plate or lock. If the lock is hard to operate, it could be time to replace it. It is best to have a professional locksmith change the locks on your behalf. This will ensure that the task is done quickly and properly.
There are upvc door locks replacement to replace your locks, for instance ending a lease or roommate agreement. It's impossible to tell who might have an unofficial copy of your key thus changing the locks is a good idea. It also ensures that your family and belongings are secure.
2. You are having trouble opening the door
A broken lock can be a major issue especially if it happens to one of your main entry doors. But the good news is that there are some easy steps you can follow to ensure that the situation doesn't get any worse and you can get access to your door as soon as you can.
First, make sure that the lock on your door is not simply misaligned. It could be as simple as tightening a few screws to fix the issue. It is crucial to remember, though, that if this doesn't resolve the issue then there's something wrong with the internal mechanics of your door lock.
Then, apply the lubricant and see if it helps to unlock the locking mechanism. The purpose of this is to assist the key slide more easily into and out of the lock, so that it is able to be opened if needed. This is a great solution for the majority of people. However in the event that the issue persists you might need to speak with an expert locksmith.
If your door lock is older than 10 years it is recommended to replace it. This is because door locks aren't made to last the full lifespan of a door and even the most durable door locks are likely to require replacement at some point in time.
In order to replace your lock, you'll have to remove the existing lock from your door. Once this is done, it's important to determine the thickness of your door to ensure you can find a lock that is a good fit. For instance, cylinders come in various shapes that are able to accommodate a variety of door thicknesses. It is also possible to replace your entire door when the frame of your door has been damaged. This is because the new lock will need to be anchored into the frame with a latch plate or strike plate as well as a deadbolt, all of which are available in separate.
3. You're worried about a break-in
The occurrence of a break-in can shake confidence in the security of your home. If the culprits have left their mark on the door frame (crowbar marks) or it is evident that they were inside (smoothed out the wood around the lock knob, broken lock), then you should replace your locks to ensure they are as secure and secure as they can be.
Even if you were able to trust the previous owners, it's impossible to know if anyone else has a copy. 6-7% of unlawful entry is committed by people who have keys which is why changing locks is a good preventative measure.
If the knobs are stuck or difficult to open, this is a further indication that your locks require to be replaced. This means that the mechanism within the lock has been damaged by tampering or just age-related 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 requirement for keys and can be programmed to permit access only for contractors or pet-sitters. You can also get doors that have keys, which allow you to enter without touching anything.
A new lock can be used to update the look of your home. It's not only about security. You can find locks to be a match to the style of your home's door.
If you're looking to change locks contact the local locksmith. They can assist you in choosing the best lock for your needs and install it quickly. Be sure to measure the door prior to calling an expert locksmith. The door's thickness is crucial to ensure that the replacement lock fits properly. If your door is larger than average, you may require a custom lock that can be fitted securely. Begin by placing a wooden shim against the door, with the tapered edge against the slot of the lock. Slide the screwdriver's tip into the slot, then turn it by pulling the shim up. This will release the latch and the screws holding the knobs in place which will allow you to take them off. them.
4. You're tired of the same old keys
It is easy to upgrade your door lock to increase the security of your home. This is a great DIY skill, especially when you move frequently or you are a landlord that requires replacement locks for tenants. Learn the steps to replace the lock on your door and you'll be able to do it yourself in just a few hours.
Installing new locks is a good idea in the case that you trust and know the previous owners or tenants. You never know who might have the keys. This includes friends, family members contractors, babysitters, and contractors. In fact, 67% of unlawful entry is committed by people who have keys to your home.
Before you start, ensure you purchase a lock replacement that is compatible with your existing hardware and measurements. Based on the style of your door, you could choose from a deadbolt lock or a doorknob lock. Once you've purchased your new lock then follow these steps to install it:
Start by removing the old knobs on both sides of the door. Remove the screws holding the latch plate at the edge of the front door. After removing the screws, take the latchplate off and remove the two screws that secure the strike plate or the deadbolt plate to the jamb.
The location of the knob or handle on the door by using the template supplied with your lock set. The spindle (the metal piece that is protruding from the exterior knob) should slide through the latch smoothly. Attach the handle/knob to the interior with the screws provided. Place the lock cylinder into the latch in the interior. Make sure it is correctly aligned and the key is compatible with the lock.
Finish by attaching the strike plates and deadbolt plate using the screws that come with the lock replacement set to secure them into place. Test your new lock once you're done to make sure it's working as intended and that the inside knob slides over the pins easily. Then, put everything back together in reverse order.