When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks keep your possessions and family secure, but over time they can wear down or be tampered with. There are some telltale signs it's time to replace or change the key on your lock.
Even though lock replacement is more involved than rekeying it can be done at home. Here are some of the best reasons to think about it:
1. You're moving into a new home
The locks on your doors are a crucial aspect of the security of your home. It's easy for burglars gain access to damaged locks. You must be aware of the indicators that indicate when it's time to replace your window.
If you are moving into a new residence then it's recommended to get the locks changed. This will ensure that you're the only person with keys and will remove any suspicions of unauthorised entry by previous residents.
Installing an entirely new lock is a simple procedure. First, you'll need to take off the lock you have already installed. This can be done by using a screwdriver in order to remove the screws that hold the knob or handle in the position. 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 the positions, drill the face hole to conform to the specifications of your lock.
After drilling the holes then you need to install the new lock. It is essential that the deadbolt, strike plates and door frame are all matched. The bolt should extend about 1/2 inch past the edge of the door and should be strong enough to secure the door.
A hard impact on the strike plate or lock could easily cause damage to the hinges. If the lock is hard to operate, it could be time to replace it. It's best to have the professional locksmith replace the locks for you and ensure that the job will be done efficiently and swiftly.
There are many other reasons to change your locks, for instance ending a roommate or rental agreement. It's impossible to tell who might have a copy of your key, so changing the locks is a good idea. It also ensures that your belongings and family are secure.
2. You are having trouble opening the door
A broken lock can be a nightmare. Particularly when it happens on the main entrance door. But the good thing is that there are simple steps you can take to ensure that the situation does not get any worse and that you can open your door again as soon as you can.
The first step is to examine your door lock to ensure that it's not misaligned. If this is the case, it may be just as easy as tightening one of the screws. It is crucial to remember that if this doesn't solve the problem, then there is likely something wrong in the internal mechanics of your door lock.
Next, try using an oil-based lubricant to see if this will help to remove the lock. The purpose of this is to assist the key to slide more easily into and out of the lock so that it can be opened if needed. This is a good solution for the majority of people. However, if the problem persists you might need to talk to a locksmith.
If your door lock is older than about 10 years old It's likely the time to get a new one. Door locks aren't designed to last the life of the door. Even the most durable door locks must be replaced at some point.
To change your lock, you will need to remove the lock that you currently have. After that it is important to measure the thickness of your door to ensure you will be able to find a replacement lock that is suitable for your door. For instance, cylinders are available in a variety of shapes that can accommodate various thicknesses of doors. It is also possible to replace the entire door in the event that the frame of your door has been damaged. This is because the new lock needs to be secured into the frame with the latch plate or strike plate and deadbolt. All of these are available as separate items.
3. You're worried that there will be an armed robbery
The occurrence of a break-in could shake your faith in the security of your home. Whether the culprits left behind their marks (crowbar marks on the door frame) or it's obvious that they've entered your home (smoothed wood around the lock and broken knobs on the lock), you need to give yourself renewed confidence by replacing your locks and making sure they are as secure as you can.
Even if you were able to trust the previous owners, it's difficult to know if anyone else has copies. Keys holders are responsible for 67% of all unlawful entry. Changing your locks is an effective way to prevent this from happening.
If the knobs are stuck or are difficult to open, this is another sign that your locks need to be replaced. upvc replacement door locks repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk could indicate that the internal mechanism has been damaged by tampering, or simply wear and tear caused by age. It exposes it to damage.
You should consider installing a keyless lock If you're having any of these issues. These locks do away with the necessity for keys and can be programmed to permit access only for contractors or pet-sitters. You can also get doors that have keys, which allow you to enter the premises without touching anything.
A new lock isn't only about security and safety it could also be a way to improve the appearance of your home. Based on the style of your door, you can find locks that complement it perfectly.
Speak to an expert locksmith in your area when you are ready change locks. They can help you choose the best lock for your needs and install it swiftly. Before you call a locksmith, make sure to measure your door. It is important to measure the thickness of your door in order to ensure that the replacement lock will fit correctly. If your door is more thick than average, you may need to get a custom-made lock that can be fitted securely. A good place to start is by placing a wood shim directly against the door, and positioned with the tapered edge against the slot for the lock. Then, slide the tip of a screwdriver into the slot, then turn to pull the shim upwards. This will release the latches and screws holding the knobs in position, allowing them to be removed.
4. You're tired of the same old keys
It's simple to upgrade your door lock to increase the security of your house. It's also a great DIY skill to have, especially when you move frequently or are a landlord that needs to replace locks for tenants. Learn the steps to replace a door lock and you'll be able do it yourself in just a few short hours.
Installing new locks is a good idea if you trust and know the previous homeowners or tenants. In the end, you don't know how many people might have copies of your keys from the past, including friends, family members contractors, babysitters, and contractors. In reality, 67 percent of illegal entry is committed by those who have keys to your home.
Be sure to purchase a replacement lock compatible with the existing hardware and dimensions. You can choose between a deadbolt or knob lock, based on the style of the door. Follow these steps to install your new lock:
Begin by removing both of the knobs that were previously attached to the door. Then, remove the screws that secure the latch plate to the door's edge. Once you've done this take off the latch plate and the two screws that secure the strike plate or deadbolt plate into the door jamb.
With the template included with the lock set, mark the positions of the knob/handle inside and the latch on the front of the door. The spindle (the metal piece that is protruding from the knob on the outside) should slide through the latch with ease. Then, attach the interior handle/knob with the screws provided, and then insert the lock cylinder into the interior latch, ensuring that it is in the correct position and functions with the key.
Attach the deadbolt and strike plates using the screws provided in your new lock set. After you've completed the process testing your new lock, make sure you test it to ensure it operates correctly and that the knob inside slides easily over the pins. Then, reassemble everything in reverse order.