When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks keep your belongings and family members safe, but over time they can wear down or be tampered with. There are some telltale signs it's time to change or reset your lock.
While replacing locks is a more in-depth process than rekeying it can be accomplished at home. Here are some main reasons to think about it:
1. You're moving to a new home
The locks on your doors are an important aspect of the security of your home. When they're damaged it's possible for burglars to gain access. This is the reason you need to be aware of when it's time to get an upgrade.
It is a good idea, in the event of moving to a new home, to change the locks. This will make sure that you are the sole owner of the keys and remove any suspicion that previous residents may have entered your home without your permission.
The installation of a new lock is a straightforward process. First, you'll need to remove the old lock. This can be done by using a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the knob or handle in place. Use the template included with the new lock to mark the position of the knob or handle, as well as the latch. After you have marked the positions, you can drill the face hole in accordance with the specifications of the lock.
Once the holes are drilled then you need to install the new lock. It is important to ensure that the deadbolt and strike plate are compatible to the door frame. The bolt should extend around 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the doors and be strong enough to secure it.
It's also recommended to have hinges replaced as they are susceptible to being damaged by a hard impact on the lock or strike plate. Finally, if the lock is difficult to operate, then this could indicate that it's time to get a replacement. It is recommended to have an expert locksmith replace the locks on your behalf. This will ensure that the job gets done quickly and correctly.
There are numerous other reasons to change your locks, such as ending a lease or roommate agreement. It is impossible to know who might have an duplicate of your key. The need to change the locks is therefore a sensible precaution. It also ensures that your belongings and family are safe.
2. You're having trouble opening the door
A broken lock is an unnerving experience. Particularly when it occurs at the entrance to your home. There are a few simple steps you can follow to prevent the issue from getting worse and be able to open the door as soon as you can.
The first step is to examine the door lock and make sure that it isn't simply misaligned. If this is the case, it could be as simple as tightening a few of the screws. It is crucial to remember, though, that if this doesn't resolve the issue then there's something wrong in the internal mechanics of the door lock.
Next, use an oil-based lubricant to test to see if it helps unlock the locking mechanism. The concept behind this is to allow the key to slide more easily into and out of the lock, so that it can be opened if needed. This is generally an effective solution for the majority of people, however it is crucial to be aware that if the issue continues to persist then there may be some other issue and you'll need to speak with an expert locksmith.
If your door lock is more than 10 years old it is recommended to replace it. Door locks are not meant to last for the entire life of the door. Even the best quality door locks must be changed at some point.
To replace your lock you must remove your existing lock. After this, it's important to measure the thickness of your door to ensure you can find a replacement that is a good fit. For instance, cylinders are available in a variety of shapes that can accommodate various thicknesses of doors. You may also have to replace your entire door when the frame of your door has been damaged. The new lock will require an latch plate and strike plate to be installed into the frame. These are available separately.
3. You're worried there will be an armed robbery
The occurrence of a break-in could shake your faith in the security of your home. The perpetrators may have left their marks (crowbar marks on the door frame) or it's obvious that they've been inside (smoothed wood around the lock and broken lock knob), you need to give yourself renewed confidence by replacing your locks and making sure they are as secure as you can.
Even if you trusted the previous owners, it's difficult to know if anyone else has copies. 6-7% of unlawful entry is committed by people who have keys and therefore changing locks is a good preventative measure.
Another sign that you should replace your locks is if the knobs seem to be squeezing or are difficult to open. This indicates that the mechanism within has been damaged by the force of tampering or just wear and tear from age. It leaves it vulnerable to damage.
If you're experiencing any of these issues think about installing a keyless door lock instead. These locks do away with the need for keys and can be programmed to allow access only once for pet-sitters, contractors, or contractors. You can also buy door locks that come with keypads. This allows you to enter the house without touching anything.
A new lock isn't only about safety and security, it can also be a way to improve the appearance of your home. There are locks that be a match to the style of your home's door.
Speak to a locksmith in your area when you are ready switch locks. They can help you choose the right lock and then install it quickly. Be sure to measure your door prior to calling an expert locksmith. It is important to measure the thickness of your door in order to ensure that the replacement lock will be fitted properly. If your door is more thick than the average, you might require a custom lock that can be installed securely. A good starting point is placing a wood shim against the door, and positioned with the tapered edge against the slot for the lock. Then, slide the tip of the screwdriver into the slot and then turn by pulling the shim up. This will let loose the latches and screws holding the knobs in place and allow them to be removed.
4. You're tired of the same old keys
Replacing the door lock is an easy upgrade that can increase the security of your home. This is an excellent DIY option, especially when you move frequently or you are a landlord who has to change locks on tenants. Learn the steps to replace the lock on your door and you'll be able complete the task yourself in just a few short hours.
Even even if you are familiar with and trust the previous homeowners or tenants it is recommended to be safe by installing new locks. You never know who could have the keys. This includes family members, friends contractors, babysitters, and contractors. In fact the people who have a key to your house are responsible for a minimum of 67 percent of all illegal entry.
Before you start, ensure to purchase a replacement lock that's compatible with your existing hardware and dimensions. upvc door locks replacement can choose between a deadbolt and a knob lock based on the style of the door. Once you've received your new lock and you're ready to install it, follow these steps: install it:
Start by removing both the knobs that were on the door. Then, take out the screws that hold the latch plate to the edge of the door. Once this is done remove the latch plate as well as the two screws that hold the deadbolt or strike plate to the jamb.
Utilizing the template included with your lock set, mark the locations of the knob/handle inside and the latch on the front of the door. Make sure the spindle (the long piece of steel that is affixed to the knob's exterior) can pass through the latch and operates smoothly. Attach the handle/knob inside using the provided screws. Insert the lock cylinder into the latch in the interior. Make sure that it is correctly aligned and the key is compatible with the lock.
Attach the strike plates and deadbolt plates using the screws included in your new lock set. After you've completed the process, test your new lock to ensure that it functions correctly and that the knob inside can slide easily over the pins. After that put everything back in reverse order and you're done!