Reasons to Change Door Lock
There are many reasons to change door lock, from upgrading your home's security to re-decorating your entrance. You might need to change locks if your key gets stuck or is difficult to turn.
Even DIY beginners can easily modify their lock. Find the necessary materials to begin.
Remove the old lock
Removal of the old lock from the door is an essential step prior to installing the new lock. This step is especially important when you suspect that someone else has a key to your home. It's an excellent idea after you've moved into a new home, experienced a burglary or a roommate moved in. The process is simpler than you imagine and can be completed in a few minutes.
Begin by removing the screws that secure the deadbolt faceplate on the frame of the door. You'll have to take off the screws on both sides of the door to take off the faceplate. This will let you see what's behind it and provide you with the knowledge of how to proceed with the rest of steps.
Once you have removed your old faceplate, then you have to take off the bolt and strike plate. Remove the bolt from the door hole by using the screwdriver. If the bolt is rusted you may have to use a chisel to hammer it. If you are using a chisel, be careful not to damage the door frame.
Make sure that the new deadbolt, doorknob and lock will fit into the holes already in the door before removing the old one. A lot of hardware stores and big box stores have a wide selection of double glazing window locks replace and will help you choose the right one. If the lock you purchased isn't the right one for your door.
Find small depressions or notches in the handle and around the trim as you remove the old lock. If you are able to locate them, insert straightened safety pins or a flat screwdriver in order to remove the handle.
After the screw in the handle is removed, you can now begin to remove the knob from its spindle. To do this find the set screw that is located on the knob's base and loosen it. Then, remove the spindle.
Install the new lock
It's a good idea to change the locks on the doors of your home periodically, especially after a burglary or when you move into a room with roommates. It's an affordable, simple and efficient way to ensure that your home is safe. The majority of people can do this yourself with a screwdriver and some basic instructions. Based on the situation, you may also need to learn how to reset a lock so that only you own the key.
To start the process, you have to purchase an additional repair window lock that matches the keyway of your current lock. Most locksmiths will replace your lock for a fee however, you can save money by doing this yourself. You can purchase a brand new lock from a hardware store, or online. Standard deadbolts will fit most doors. However, you will have to measure the door to ensure it is suitable.
Most of the time, your new lock will be supplied with a cardboard template that shows you how it will fit on the door. You can use it to guide you for drilling the hole, which is much easier than measuring each time. If the template does not exactly match your hole, bring it back to the store and request a replacement.
When you install the new lock, you must ensure that it is placed on the right side of the door. Verify the latch. It should have a label that reads "up" or something similar. Check that the latch is properly placed on the latch plate, then secure it with the screws supplied.
When replacing the knob lock be sure to be aware of the handing. Most knob locks are left-handed, however, there are some that are right-handed. If you are not paying attention, the knob could be placed on the wrong side of your door, which will prevent it from being locked from the outside or inside.
After you've finished checking the new lock to confirm that it's working. You should be able to lock the door from both the inside and outside, and unlock it with keys. If you're not happy with the result then you can always call an expert locksmith to fix the issue.
Test the lock
A lock that does not unlock can be annoying, but it can also put your family's safety at risk. It's easy to solve the majority of door lock problems by conducting some troubleshooting and lubrication. First, ensure that your key is correctly cut and that the lock isn't dirty or loose. If this doesn't resolve the problem, you can try applying lubrication to the door lock actuator using powdered graphite or a silicone-based lubricant.
Check that the door lock switch, wiring harnesses and the actuator connector are all working correctly. Consult the wiring diagram or manual to determine the color code and the function of each door lock switch wire. Use a test light or digital meter to see whether the door lock's actuator receives power and ground when the switches are activated. If you can see the switches switch on and off with voltage, it means the switches are in good shape and the actuator is likely to need replacing.
If the switch appears to work but the actuator doesn't move when you turn the knob it could be a problem with the actuator itself. The actuator cylinder is equipped with pins that are spring loaded. They stop the cylinder from rotating until the key is put in, and then they push them upwards to meet the height of the key in that area. Then, the cylinder to rotate and open the lock body and allow the handle to latch.
If the door lock actuator still not functioning, you can remove it with a small screwdriver. It is necessary to remove the locking bolt first and then separate the plastic cover that houses the electrical connector. After that, disconnect the door lock actuator and let it fall. You should then be able find the two 10mm bolts that keep the actuator in place and remove them. Once the actuator is removed, you'll be able to disconnect the black electrical connector and pull it out together with the actuator and lock assembly.
Replace the key
Whether you have keys for your deadbolt or door knob, If it's not working properly you need to either rekey the lock or replace it completely. It's not too difficult and can save you money. It is recommended to have an expert locksmith examine the locks for any issues prior to starting. This will give you peace of peace of mind knowing that your home is secure and safe.
Remove the exterior faceplate of the doorknob/deadbolt. There may be screws holding it in place, if so use a screwdriver to loosen them and then pull the faceplate away. Then utilize a flat head screwdriver to take off the interior faceplate. After removing the faceplate you can remove the bolt and screw from the lock cylinder.
A locksmith can assist you determine if your double glazed window lock repairs near me needs to be replaced or replaced with a new key. They can also advise you on the best security options for your home. They can also make the necessary modifications to your door and frame for an ideal fit. They will also offer a warranty on their work.
If you decide to rekey the lock you must first purchase an additional key for it. It's important to use the right key within the lock. Using an incorrect key could damage the mechanism inside and stop it from functioning. Insert the key into the lock to verify its size. If the key fits flush against the plug, then it is the right size. If the pins protrude from the top of plug and are not a good fit, they're too long.
You may need to change the lock on your door for many reasons, including:
If you're moving into a previous homeowner's house or have lost keys, rekeying the window lock replacements can be a more affordable option than replacing window locks it. It's also more cost-effective than a complete upvc replacement window locks. Rekeying a lock that is already in use may not be feasible in some situations. If the lock has been damaged or jammed repeatedly, for example it could be time to replace it.