When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks keep your possessions and family secure, but over time they may wear out or be altered. There are some telltale indications that it's time for you to think about replacing or rekeying your lock.
Although replacing locks is more involved than rekeying it is possible to do it at home. Here are the top reasons why you should think about it:
1. You're moving into your new home
Your door locks are a crucial part of your home's security. If they're damaged or broken it's easy for burglars to gain access. This is why you need to know when it's time for an upgrade.
It is a good idea if you are moving into a new house changing the locks. This will ensure that you are the only one with keys and will eliminate any suspicions of unauthorized entry from previous residents.
The installation of a new lock is an easy process. The first step is to remove the old lock. It is possible to remove the screws that hold the handle or knob in place using a screwdriver. Utilize the template supplied with the new lock to mark the position of the knob or handle, as well as the latch. After you have identified the positions, you can drill the face hole according to the lock specifications.
Once the holes are drilled, you will need to install the new lock. It is crucial that the deadbolt, strike plate and door frame are all in line. The bolt should extend around 1/2 inch past the edge of the door and should be tight enough to ensure the door is secured.
It's also a good idea to have the hinges replaced, as they are susceptible to being damaged by a hard impact on the strike plate or lock. If the lock is difficult to operate, it could be time to replace it. It is recommended to have a professional locksmith change your locks for you to ensure that the job is completed correctly and quickly.
You may also want to change your locks if you've terminated an agreement to rent or a roommate. It is impossible to determine who might have copies of your keys thus changing the locks is a good idea. It also ensures that your family and belongings are secure.
2. You are having trouble opening the door.
A broken lock can be a nightmare, especially when it happens to one of your main entry doors. There are a few simple steps you can follow to prevent the problem from getting worse and to be capable of opening the door as soon as you can.
The first step is to check your door lock to ensure that it isn't simply misaligned. If this is the case, it may be as simple as tightening a few of the screws. It is important to remember, though, that if this doesn't solve the problem, then there is likely something wrong with the internal mechanics that operate your door lock.
Then, apply an oil-based lubricant to see if it helps to unlock the locking mechanism. The concept behind this is to help the key to slide more easily in and out of the lock so that it is able to be opened if needed. This is a great solution for the majority of people. However in the event that the issue persists it is possible to speak with an expert locksmith.
In the end, if your door lock is more than 10 years old It's likely time for a replacement. Door locks are not meant to last for the entire life of the door. Even the most durable door locks need to be replaced at some point.
To replace your lock you must remove the lock you have currently. After removing the existing lock, you'll have to determine the thickness of your door to ensure that the replacement will be able to fit. For example, cylinder locks come in different shapes to accommodate various thicknesses of doors. It is also possible to replace your entire door when the frame of your door has been damaged. The new lock will require a strike plate and latch plate to be inserted into the frame. They are sold separately.
3. upvc door replacement lock worried that there could be an armed robbery
The possibility of a burglary can shake your faith in the security of your home. If the perpetrators left their marks on your door frame (crowbar marks) or it is clear that they were inside (smoothed out the wood around the lock knob, broken lock), then you should replace your locks to ensure that they are as secure and secure as possible.
Even if you are sure of the previous owners, there's no way to determine who else might have received the key. People with keys are responsible for 6-7% of all illegal entry. It is recommended to change your locks as an effective preventative measure.
If the knobs are clogged or difficult to open, this is another indication that your locks require to be replaced. This could indicate that the mechanism within has been damaged through the force of tampering or just wear and tear caused by age. It makes it more 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 requirement for keys and can be programmed to permit access for only one time for pet-sitters, contractors, or contractors. You can also purchase door locks that have keypads. This lets you enter the house without touching anything.
A new lock isn't only about security and safety, it can also be a method to modernize your home's look. Depending on the style of your door, you'll be able to choose locks that match it perfectly.
Contact an expert locksmith in your area when you are ready make a switch. They can assist you in selecting the best lock and then install it quickly. Before you call a locksmith, make sure to take measurements of your door. The door's thickness is crucial to ensure that the lock you choose fits correctly. If your door is larger, you may need a lock that is custom-made to fit securely. A good starting point is placing a wood shim directly against the door and then putting it with the tapered edge facing the slot for the lock. Then, slide the tip of the screwdriver into the slot, then turn it, pulling up the shim. 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 easy to upgrade your door lock and increase the security of your home. It's also an excellent DIY technique to master, particularly in the event that you frequently move or are a landlord who has to replace locks for tenants. You can change a door lock in just a few hours If you know the steps.
Installing new locks is a good idea even if you trust and know the previous owners or tenants. After all, you never know how many people may have copies of the keys that were previously used that include relatives, friends, contractors, and babysitters. In fact the people who have access to your house are accountable for 67% of all unlawful entries.
Before you start, ensure you purchase a lock replacement that's compatible with the existing hardware and dimensions. You can choose between a deadbolt or knob lock based on the style of your door. Once you've received your new lock, follow these steps to install it:
Begin by removing the old knobs on both sides of the door. Remove the screws that hold the latch plate on the edge of the front door. After removing the screws, take the latchplate off and remove the two screws that hold the strike plate or the deadbolt plate to the jamb.
Utilizing the template included with the lock set, mark the positions of the handle/knob inside and the latch on the face of the door. The spindle (the metal piece that extends from the knob's exterior) should slide through the latch without difficulty. Attach the handle or knob to the interior using the screws provided, and then insert the lock cylinder into the latch, ensuring that it is in the correct position and functions with the key.
Attach the deadbolt plates and strike plates with the screws that are included in your new lock set. Once you've finished, test your new lock to make sure it works correctly and that the knob inside can slide easily over the pins. Afterward put it back together in reverse order, and you're done!