When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are designed to keep your family and belongings secure. However, they can become worn out or tampered with over time. There are a few telltale indications that it's time for you to consider replacing or rekeying your lock.
Although lock replacement is more involved than rekeying it can still be done at home. Here are a few top reasons why you should consider it:
1. You're moving to a new house
The locks on your door are an essential part of your home security. It's easy for burglars gain access to damaged locks. This is why it's important to know when it's the right time to purchase a replacement.
It is a good idea if you are moving into a new house and you want to change the locks. This will ensure that you're the only person with keys and will make it impossible to suspect unauthorized entry by previous residents.
Installing the new lock is an easy process. First, you'll need to remove the existing lock. This can be accomplished using a screwdriver in order to remove the screws that keep the knob or handle in the position. Then, use a template provided by the new lock set to mark the positions of the knob/handle and latch. After you've marked the positions, drill the face hole in accordance with the specifications of the lock.
Install the new lock after the holes have been drilled. It is important 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 past the edge of the door, and should be strong enough to lock the door.
It's also recommended to have hinges replaced, since they can be damaged by a hard hit on the lock or strike plate. If the lock is hard to operate, it may be time to replace it. It is best to let a professional locksmith change the locks for you. This will ensure that the task is completed quickly and efficiently.
You may also want to change your locks if you've terminated an agreement to rent or a roommate. It is impossible to know who may have a duplicate of your key. It is therefore a prudent precaution. This will ensure the security of your family and possessions.
2. You're having trouble opening the door
A broken lock can be an absolute nightmare. Particularly when repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk occurs on the main entrance door. There are a few steps you can take to stop the issue from getting worse and be capable of opening the door as quickly as you can.
The first step is to examine the door lock and make sure that it's not just misaligned. It could be as simple as tightening a few screws if this is the problem. It is crucial to remember that if this doesn't solve the issue, then there is likely something wrong in the internal mechanics of your door lock.
Next, use an oil-based lubricant to check if it helps remove the locking mechanism. The idea behind this is to assist the key to slide more easily in and out of the lock so that it is able to be opened if needed. This is a good solution for most people. However in the event that the issue persists you might need to consult an expert locksmith.
If your door lock is more than 10 years old, you should consider replacing it. Door locks aren't designed to last the life of the door. Even the most durable door locks need to be replaced at some point.
To replace your lock, you must remove your existing lock. After removing the existing lock, you'll need measure your door thickness to ensure that a replacement will fit. For instance, cylinders are available in a variety of shapes that can accommodate different thicknesses of doors. It is also possible to replace the entire door if the frame of your door has been damaged. The new lock will require a latch plate and strike plate to be inserted inside the frame. They are sold separately.
3. You're worried about a break-in
The possibility of a burglary could shake your faith in the security of your home. Whether the culprits left behind their marks (crowbar marks in your door's frame) or it's obvious that they're inside (smoothed wood around the lock and broken lock knob) You must restore your security by changing your locks and making sure they are as secure as possible.
Even if you trusted the previous owners, it's impossible to find out if anyone else has a copy. 67% of the crime is committed by those who have keys and therefore changing locks is a good preventative measure.
Another indication that you need to replace your locks is if the knobs appear to be stuck or difficult to open. This means that the internal mechanism of the lock has been damaged by tampering or just age-related wear and tear, which makes it vulnerable to failure and damage.
Consider installing a lock that is keyless If you're experiencing any of these problems. They eliminate the need for keys and can be programmed with one-time entry codes for contractors or pet sitters who need access. You can also get doors that have a keypad, allowing you to enter without touching anything.
Getting a new lock isn't just about security and safety It can also be a way to improve the appearance of your home. Depending on the design of your door, you'll be able to find locks that will complement it perfectly.
If you're looking to switch locks contact an experienced locksmith in your area. They can help you select the right lock and install it quickly. Be sure to measure your door prior to calling an expert locksmith. It is important to measure the thickness of your door in order to ensure that the replacement lock will be fitted properly. If your door is thicker it may require a lock that is custom-made to fit snugly. The best way to begin is by placing a wood shim against the door, and positioned with the tapered edge against the slot for the lock. Slide the tip of the screwdriver into slot and turn upwards, bringing the shim up. This will open the latches and screws holding the knobs in place, allowing them to be removed.
4. You're tired of the same keys
It's easy to upgrade your door lock to increase the security of your house. It's also a great DIY ability to have, particularly in the event that you frequently move or are a landlord that needs to replace locks for tenants. Learn the steps to replace the lock on your door and you'll be able complete the task yourself in just a couple of hours.
Even if you know and trust the previous landlords or homeowners It is recommended to be safe by installing new locks. In the end, you don't know how many people could have a copy of the keys that were previously used, including friends, family members contractors, babysitters, and contractors. In reality the people who have keys to your home are responsible for 6-7% of all unlawful entries.
Before you begin, be sure to purchase a replacement lock that's compatible with the existing hardware and measurements. You can choose between a deadbolt or a knob lock, based on the design of the door. Once you've purchased your new lock, follow these steps to install it:
Start by removing both the knobs that were on the door. Remove the screws holding the latch plate to the edge of the front door. After removing the screws take off the latchplate as well as the two screws that hold the strike plate or 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 is protruding from the knob's exterior) must pass through the latch with ease. Then, attach the knob or handle to the inside using the screws supplied and insert the lock cylinder into the latch, making sure that it is in the correct position and functions with the key.
Attach the deadbolt and strike plates using the screws included in the set of replacement locks. Once you've finished testing your new lock, make sure you test it to ensure that it functions properly and the inside knob is able to slide smoothly over the pins. Then put it back in reverse order and you're done!