When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are designed to ensure that your family and possessions are secure. However, they can be damaged or worn out with over time. There are some telltale signs it's time for you to replace or reset your lock.
Even though lock replacement upvc door locking mechanism is more complicated than rekeying, it can be done at home. Here are the important reasons to think about it:
1. You're moving to a brand new home
Your door locks are an essential element of your home security. When they're damaged it's possible for burglars to gain entry. This is why it's important to know when it's the right time to purchase a replacement.
If you are moving into a new residence, then it is a good idea to have the locks changed. This will make sure that you are the sole owner of keys and will eliminate any suspicion that previous residents may have entered your home without your permission.
The installation of a new lock is a simple procedure. First, you will need to take off the old lock. It is possible to remove the screws holding the knob or handle in place with the screwdriver. Use the template that comes with the new lock to mark the position of the knob/handle, and latch. Once you've marked the positions, you can drill the face hole according to the specifications of the lock.
Install the new lock after the holes have been made. It is vital that the deadbolt, strike plate, and door frame are all aligned. The bolt should extend around 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the door and should be sufficiently tight to lock the upvc door locks replacement.
A hard impact on a strike plate or lock can cause damage to the hinges. If the lock is difficult to operate, it could be time to replace it. It is best to have a professional locksmith replace your locks for you to ensure that the job is completed quickly and efficiently.
There are many other reasons to change your locks, for instance ending a lease or roommate agreement. It is difficult to determine who may have an duplicate of your key. It is therefore a prudent precaution. It also ensures that your belongings and family are secure.
2. You're having difficulty opening the door
A broken lock can be a nightmare especially if it occurs to one of your primary entry doors. There are a few easy steps you can take to stop the issue from becoming worse and to be capable of opening the door as quickly as you can.
The first step is to examine your door lock and make sure that it's not just misaligned. It may be as easy as tightening a few screws if this is the problem. It is important to keep in mind that if this doesn't solve the problem it is likely that there is something wrong in the internal mechanics of your door lock.
Then, apply an oil-based lubricant to test to see if it helps remove the locking mechanism. The concept behind this is to allow the key slide more easily into and out of the lock, so that it can be opened when necessary. This is a suitable solution for the majority of people. However should the issue persist, you may need to speak with an expert locksmith.
If your door lock is more than 10 years old, you should consider replacing it. This is because door locks are not designed to last for the entire life of a door, and even the best door locks are likely to need to be replaced at some point.
To replace your lock, you'll have to remove the existing lock from your door. Once this is done, it's important to measure the thickness of your door to ensure you will be able to find a replacement Door Locks lock that is suitable for your door. For example, cylinders come in different shapes that can accommodate different thicknesses of doors. It is also important to know that if your door's frame has been damaged in some way, you'll need to replace the whole door. The new lock will require an latch plate and strike plate to be inserted inside the frame. These are available separately.
3. You're worried there will be a break-in
The possibility of a burglary can shake confidence in the security of your home. The perpetrators may have left their mark (crowbar marks on your door frame) or it's evident that they've been inside (smoothed wood around the lock and a broken knobs for locks) It is important to ensure your security by replacing lock on upvc door your locks and ensuring they are as secure as they can be.
Even if you believed in the previous owners, it's difficult to determine if someone else has copies. 67% of the crime is committed by those who have a key and therefore changing locks is a good preventative measure.
Another sign 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 the tampering of your locks or simply wear and tear, making it vulnerable to damage and eventual failure.
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 access codes for contractors or pet sitters who require access. You can also purchase door locks with keys, which allow you to enter without touching anything.
The purchase of a new lock isn't just about safety and security, it can also be a means to update the look of your home. Based on the style of your door, you can find locks that complement it perfectly.
If you're looking to change locks consult a local locksmith. They can help you select the right lock and install it quickly. Be sure to measure the door prior to calling a professional locksmith. It is important to measure the thickness of your door to ensure that the new lock will fit correctly. If your door is thicker than average, you might need to get a custom-made lock that can be installed securely. Start by placing an shim made of wood on the door and the tapered edge placed against the slot of the lock. Then, slide the screwdriver's tip into the slot, then turn it by pulling the shim up. This will let loose the latches and screws that keep the knobs in position, allowing them to be removed.
4. You're tired with the same old keys
It's easy to upgrade your door lock and improve the security of your house. It's also a great DIY skill to have, especially if you move often or are a landlord who has to replace locks for tenants. You can replace a door lock within a matter of minutes when you know the steps.
Installing new locks is a good idea in the case that you trust and know the previous owners or tenants. You never know how many people could have copies of the keys that were previously used, including relatives, friends, contractors, and babysitters. In reality the people who have keys to your home are responsible for 6-7 percent of all illegal entry.
Before you begin, be sure to buy a new lock that's compatible with the existing hardware and dimensions. You can choose between a deadbolt and a knob lock, based on the design of the door. Follow these steps to install your new lock:
Begin by removing the knobs on both sides of the door. Then, take out the screws that attach the latch plate to the edge of the door. Once you've done this, remove the latch plate as well as the two screws that hold the deadbolt or strike plate to the jamb.
The location of the knob or handle on the door by using the template supplied with the lock set. The spindle (the metal piece that extends from the exterior knob) should slide through the latch smoothly. Attach the handle/knob inside using the provided screws. Install the lock cylinder in the interior latch. Check that it is properly aligned and that the key is compatible with the lock.
Attach the deadbolt plates and strike plates with the screws that are included in your replacement lock set. 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. Reassemble everything in reverse order.