When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks keep your family and possessions secure however, over time they can wear down or be altered. There are certain indicators that tell you it's time for you to replace or reset your lock.
Although replacing door locks locks is more complex than rekeying it is possible to do it at home. Here are the important reasons to take a look at it:
1. You're moving into a brand new home
Your door locks are a crucial aspect of the security of your home. It is easy for burglars to gain access to locks that are damaged. This is why it's important to know when it's the right time to purchase an upgrade.
It is a good idea, if you are moving to a new home and you want to change the locks. This will ensure that you are the sole owner of keys and will eliminate any suspicion that previous owners might have entered your house without your permission.
Installing a new lock is an easy procedure. First, you'll need take off the lock you have already installed. This can be accomplished using a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the knob or handle in the position. Next, utilize a template supplied by the new lock set to mark the position of the handle/knob and latch. After you've marked the positions, you can drill the face hole to conform to the specifications of your lock.
Once the holes are drilled then you need to install the new lock. It is essential to make sure that the deadbolt and strike plate are compatible to the door frame. The bolt should extend about 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the door, and should be strong enough to ensure the door is secured.
It's also recommended to have the hinges replaced, as they can be damaged by a strong collision with the strike plate or lock. Finally, if the lock is difficult to operate, this may be a sign that it's time to get an upgrade. It is recommended to let a professional locksmith change the locks on your behalf. This will ensure that the task is completed quickly and efficiently.
It is also possible to change your locks if you've gotten rid of an agreement to rent or a roommate. It's impossible to tell who may have a copy of your key and therefore changing your locks is a good idea. It will also ensure that your belongings and family are safe.
2. You are having trouble opening the door
A broken lock is an unnerving experience. Especially when it occurs on your main entry door. There are a few steps you can take to stop the issue from becoming worse and to be in a position to open the door as quickly as you can.
First, ensure that the lock on your door is not simply misaligned. If this is the case, it could be as simple as tightening a few of the screws. If this does not fix the issue, there could be an issue with the internal mechanisms of your door lock.
Next, try using a lubricant to determine if this helps to free the lock. The idea behind this is to help the key to slide more easily into and out of the lock so that it can be opened if needed. This is generally a good solution for the majority of people, but it is crucial to be aware that if your problem persists, it could be another issue at play, and you will need to speak with an expert locksmith.
In the end, if your door lock is more than about 10 years old is it time for a replacement. Door locks aren't designed to last for the lifetime of the door. Even the top quality door locks must be changed at some point.
In order to replace your lock, you'll have to remove the current lock from your door. Once this is done it's crucial to measure the thickness of your door to ensure that you can find a replacement that is a good fit. For instance, cylinders are available in various shapes that are able to accommodate different thicknesses of doors. It is also important to note that if your door frame has been damaged in any way, you'll have to replace the entire door. This is because the new lock needs to be anchored into the frame with a latch plate or strike plate and deadbolt. All of these are available in separate.
3. You're worried about a break-in
A break-in could shake your faith in the security of your home. If the culprits have left marks on the door frame (crowbar marks) or it is obvious that they were in the house (smoothed out the wood around your lock, broken lock knob) Then you must replace your locks to ensure that they are as secure and secure as they can be.
Even if you believed in the previous owners, it's impossible to find out if anyone else has a copy. Keys holders are responsible for 6-7% of all unlawful entry. Changing your locks is a good preventative measure.
Another indicator that you should replace your locks is if the knobs appear to be sticking or difficult to open. This indicates that the internal mechanism of the lock is damaged due to alteration or just wear and tear, making it vulnerable to failure and damage.
If you're having issues with any of these think about installing a door lock that is keyless instead. They eliminate the need for keys, and can be programmed with one-time entry codes for contractors or pet sitters that require access. You can also purchase door locks with keypads. This lets you get into the house without touching anything.
Getting a new lock isn't just about safety and security it could also be a means to update the look of your home. You can find locks to fit the design of your door.
Speak to an expert locksmith in your area in case you are ready to change locks. They can assist you in choosing the right lock and install it quickly. Before calling a locksmith, be sure to measure 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 thicker than average, you might require a custom lock that can be installed securely. Begin by putting an shim made of wood on the door with the tapered edge positioned against the slot of the lock. Place the tip of a screwdriver into the slot, then turn to pull the shim upwards. This will let loose the latches and screws that hold the knobs in position which allows them to be removed.
4. You're tired of the same old keys
replacing upvc door lock and handle the door lock is an easy upgrade that will increase the security of your home. It's also a great DIY ability to have, particularly if you move often or are a landlord who needs to replace locks for tenants. Learn the steps to replace locks on doors and you'll be able to do it yourself in just a few short hours.
Installing new locks is a good idea even in the case that you trust and know the previous tenants or homeowners. After all, you never know how to replace upvc door lock many people could have copies of your keys that were previously used that include family, friends contractors, babysitters, and contractors. In fact, those who have a key to your house are responsible for 6-7 percent of all illegal entries.
Be sure to purchase a replacement lock compatible with the current hardware and dimensions. Depending on the design of your door, you can choose from a deadbolt lock or a doorknob lock. Follow these steps to install your new lock:
Start by removing the knobs on both sides of the door. Then, take out the screws that hold the latch plate to the upvc door lock replacements's edge. Once you've done this remove the latch plate, as well as the two screws that secure the deadbolt or strike plate to the jamb of the door.
Find the position of the handle/knob inside on the door using the template that came with the lock set. The spindle (the metal piece that protrudes from the exterior knob) should slide through the latch with ease. Attach the handle/knob inside with the screws provided. Install the lock cylinder into the interior latch. Make sure it is correctly aligned and the key is compatible with the lock.
Then, attach the strike plates and deadbolt plate with the screws included with your new lock set to secure them in place. After you've completed the process, test your new lock to ensure it operates correctly and that the knob inside is able to slide smoothly over the pins. Then, reassemble everything in reverse order.