When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks keep your family and possessions secure but, over time, they can wear down or be tampered with. There are some telltale signs that it's time to consider replacing or rekeying your lock.
Even though replacing locks is more complicated than rekeying, it can be accomplished at home. Here are a few most compelling reasons to consider it:
1. You're moving into a new home
The locks on your door are a crucial aspect of the security of your home. If they're damaged, it can be easy for burglars to gain entry. It is important to recognize the indicators that indicate when it's time to replace your window.
If you are moving into a new house It's an ideal idea to have the locks changed. This will ensure that you are the only person with keys and eliminate any suspicions of unauthorized entry by previous residents.
Installing an entirely new lock is a simple process. First, you'll need to take off the old lock. This can be done by using a screwdriver in order to remove the screws that keep the knob or handle in place. Use the template included with the new lock to mark the locations of the handle/knob, and latch. Once you've identified the positions, you are able to drill the face hole in accordance with the specifications of the lock.
After the holes have been drilled, you will need to install the new lock. It is important to make sure that the deadbolt and strike plate fit properly with the existing door frame. The bolt should extend approximately 1/2 inch past the edge of the door, and should be strong enough to lock the door.
A hard blow to the strike plate or lock could easily cause damage to the hinges. Finally, if the lock is difficult to operate, then this may be a sign that it's time for an upgrade. It is best to let a professional locksmith change the locks on your behalf. This will ensure that the task is completed quickly and efficiently.
There are many other reasons to replace your locks, like ending a lease or roommate agreement. It's impossible to know who might have a copy of your key thus changing the locks is a good idea. It also ensures that your belongings and family are safe.
2. You're having trouble opening the door
A broken lock can be a major issue, especially when it happens to one of your primary entry doors. But the good thing is that there are some simple steps you can take to ensure that it doesn't get worse and that you can open your door as quickly as possible.
The first step is to examine your door lock to ensure that it's not just misaligned. If this is the case, it may be as simple as tightening some of the screws. It is important to keep in mind that if this does not solve the issue then there's something wrong with the internal mechanics of the door lock.
Then, apply the lubricant and check if it helps unlock the locking mechanism. The purpose of this is to help the key to slide more easily into and out of the lock so that it is able to be opened when needed. This is generally an effective solution for most people, but it is important to remember that if your issue persists, it could be another issue at play, and you will need to contact an expert locksmith.
If your door lock is older than 10 years it is recommended to replace it. Door locks aren't designed to last the life of the door. Even the best quality door locks must be replaced at some point.
To replace your lock, you'll have to remove the lock you have from your door. After removing the lock, you'll have to measure your door thickness to ensure that a replacement will be suitable. For example, cylinder locks come in different shapes to accommodate different thicknesses of doors. It is also important to remember that if the frame of your door is damaged in any way, you'll need to replace the whole door. This is because the new lock will have to be secured to the frame with a latch plate, strike plate, and deadbolt. All of these are available in separate.
3. You're worried there will be a break-in
A break-in can make you think twice about the security of your home. If the perpetrators have left their marks on the door frame (crowbar marks) or it is obvious that they were in the house (smoothed out the wood around the lock, broken lock knob) Then you must replace your locks to ensure that they are as safe and secure as possible.
Even if you believed in the previous owners, it's impossible to know if anyone else has a copy. Keys holders are responsible for a minimum of 67% of illicit entry. Changing your locks is a good preventative measure.
If the knobs are stuck or are difficult to open, this is a further indication that your locks require to be replaced. This is a sign that the internal mechanism is damaged due to manipulation, or simply due to wear and tear from age. It makes it more vulnerable to being damaged.
Consider installing a keyless lock If you're experiencing any of these issues. These eliminate the need for keys and can be programmed with one-time entry codes for contractors or pet sitters who require access. You can also purchase door locks with keys that allow you to enter the premises without touching anything.
Getting a new lock isn't only about security and safety It can also be a method to improve the appearance of your home. You can find locks to match the style of your home's door.
If you're looking to switch locks contact an experienced locksmith in your area. They can help you select the appropriate lock and install it swiftly. Before front door locks replacement haringey call a locksmith, be certain to measure your door. The door's thickness is essential to ensuring the lock you choose fits correctly. If your door is more thick than the average, you might need to get a custom-made lock that can be fitted securely. A good place to start is by placing a wood shim against the door and then putting it with the tapered edge against the slot for the lock. Slide the tip of the screwdriver into the slot, then turn it upwards, bringing the shim up. This will open the latch and the screws that hold the knobs in place which will allow you to take them off. them.
4. You're tired with the same keys
It's easy to upgrade your door lock and increase the security of your home. It's also a great DIY skill to have, especially when you move frequently or are a landlord who needs to change locks for tenants. You can replace a door lock in a matter of hours when you know the steps.
Even when you trust the previous landlords or homeowners, it's best to play it safe by installing new locks. You never know how many people might have a copy of the keys from the past, including family, friends, contractors, and babysitters. In fact, 6-7% of unlawful entry is committed by those who have access to your home.
Before you start, ensure you purchase a lock replacement that's compatible with your existing hardware and measurements. Depending on the design of your door, you could select deadbolt locks or a doorknob lock. Follow these steps to install your new lock:
Start by removing both knobs that were on the door. Then, take out the screws that attach the latch plate to the door's edge. Once this is done, remove the latch plate and the two screws that secure the strike plate or deadbolt plate to the jamb.
The position of the handle/knob inside on the door by using the template supplied with the lock set. The spindle (the metal piece that extends from the knob's exterior) should pass through the latch smoothly. Attach the handle or knob to the interior using the screws provided, and then insert the lock cylinder into the interior latch, making sure it aligns correctly and operates with the key.
Attach the deadbolt plates and strike plates using the screws included in the set of replacement locks. After you've completed the process, test your new lock to make sure it works properly and the inside knob can slide easily over the pins. After that put everything back together in reverse order, and you're done!