When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks keep your family and possessions safe however, over time they'll wear down or be damaged. There are some telltale indications that it's time for you to think about replacing or rekeying your lock.
Although replacing locks is more complicated than rekeying, it can be accomplished at home. Here are the top reasons why you should think about it:
1. You're moving into a brand new home
Your door locks are a vital part of your home security. It's 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're moving into a new residence, then it is an ideal idea to have the locks changed. This will ensure that you are the sole owner of keys and eliminate any suspicion that previous owners could have entered your home without your permission.
Installing a new lock is an easy process. First, you'll need take off the lock you have already installed. It is possible to remove the screws holding the knob or handle in place with a screwdriver. Then, you can utilize a template supplied by the new lock set to mark the location of the handle/knob and latch. Once you've marked your locations, drill the face hole to match the specifications of the lock.
Install the new lock after the holes have been made. It is vital that the deadbolt, strike plates and door frame are all matched. The bolt should extend approximately 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the door, and should be sufficiently tight to ensure the door is secured.
It's also an excellent idea to get hinges replaced as they can be damaged by a strong impact on the lock or strike plate. If the lock is difficult to operate, it could be time to replace. It is best to have an expert locksmith replace the locks for you. This will ensure that the job is completed quickly and efficiently.
You may also want to replace your locks if you've terminated the lease or a roommate agreement. It's impossible to know who may have an unofficial copy of your key thus changing the locks is a wise precaution. It will also ensure that your belongings and family are secure.
2. You are having trouble opening the door.
A broken lock is a nightmare. Particularly when it happens on your main entry door. However, the good news is that there are easy steps you can take to ensure it doesn't get worse and that you can get access to your door as quickly as you can.
First, ensure whether your door lock isn't simply out of alignment. If this is the case, it may be just as easy as tightening one of the screws. If this does not fix the problem, there may be an issue with the internal mechanisms of your door lock.
Next, use a lubricant and see if it helps to remove the locking mechanism. This will help the key slide into and out of the locks more easily, making it possible for them to be opened. This is a good solution for the majority of people. However, if the problem persists, you may need to speak with a locksmith.
If your door lock is more than 10 years old it is time to consider replacing it. This is because door locks aren't made to last the full lifetime of a door, and even the best door locks will typically need to be replaced at some point.
In order to replace the lock, you'll need to remove the existing lock from your door. After this it's crucial to determine the thickness of your door to ensure that you will be able to find a replacement lock that will fit properly. For instance, cylinders come in different shapes that can accommodate various thicknesses of doors. It is also important to know that if your door's frame has been damaged in some way, you will need to replace the whole door. This is because the new lock needs to be secured into the frame using plates for latching or strike plate as well as a deadbolt. All of these are available as separate items.
3. You're worried there will be a break-in
A burglary can cause you to think twice about the security of your home. If the culprits have left marks on your door's frame (crowbar marks) or it is obvious that they are inside (smoothed out the wood around the lock knob, broken lock), then you should replace your locks to ensure they are as safe and secure as you can.
Even if you were able to trust the previous owners, it's difficult to find out if anyone else has a copy. 6-7percent of illegal entry is committed by people who have a key which is why changing locks is a great preventative measure.
Another sign that you should replace your locks is if the knobs seem to be sticking or difficult to open. This is a sign that the mechanism inside the lock is damaged due to tampering or just age-related wear and tear, leaving it vulnerable to damage and failure.
If you're having issues with any of these, consider installing a keyless lock instead. These eliminate the need for keys and can be programmed with one-time entry codes for contractors or pet sitters that require access. There are also doors that have keys that allow you to enter the premises without touching anything.
A new lock isn't just about safety and security it could also be a method to update the look of your home. There are locks that be a match to the style of the door you have.
If you're looking to change locks contact a local locksmith. They can help you choose the best lock and install it quickly. Before calling a locksmith, be certain to measure your door. The door's thickness is vital to ensure that the lock you choose fits correctly. If your door is larger then you might require a lock that is custom-made to fit securely. A good way to begin is by placing a wood shim directly against the door, and positioned with the tapered edge against the slot for the lock. Place the screwdriver's tip into the slot and then twist to pull the shim upwards. replace lock upvc door repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk will let the latch open and the screws that hold the knobs in place which will allow you to take them off. them.
4. You're tired of the same old keys
Replacing 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 that needs to change locks for tenants. Learn the steps for replacing the lock on your door and you'll be able do it yourself in a few short hours.
Even when you trust the previous tenants or homeowners, it's best to play it safe by installing new locks. You never know how many people may have a copy of the old keys that include relatives, friends, contractors, and babysitters. In reality those with access to your house are responsible for 6-7 percent of all illegal entries.
Make sure you purchase a replacement lock compatible with the hardware you have and the dimensions. You can pick between a deadbolt and a knob lock depending on the style of the door. Follow these steps to install your new lock:
Begin by removing both of the knobs that were on the door. Then, remove the screws that attach the latch plate to the edge of the door. After removing the screws, take the latchplate off and remove the two screws that secure the strike plate or deadbolt plate to the door jamb.
Using the template that comes with your lock set, mark the location of the knob/handle inside and the latch on the front of the door. Ensure that the spindle (the long metal piece that extends from the knob's exterior) is able to pass through the latch and operates it smoothly. Attach the interior handle/knob with the screws provided, and then insert the lock cylinder into the latch, making sure that it is in the correct position and functions with the key.
Finalize by securing the strike plates and deadbolt plate with the screws included in your replacement lock installed to secure them in their place. Check your new lock when you're done to make sure it's functioning properly and that the knob inside is able to slide over the pins. Afterward put everything back together in reverse order and you're all set!