How to Replace Door Locks
It can be difficult to change your door lock. It is important to protect your home from intruders. You should also replace your locks when you have an additional housemate or if you lease out your house.
Most new locks have been designed for standard width doors. If your door is wider and wider, you'll need to purchase a "thick door" kit with longer screws and a longer tail piece for the deadbolt.
Remove the lock from the old one.
It is necessary to remove your old lock from the door before you install the new lock. This can be done with a few simple tools, but you must be careful not to scratch your door or frame. Using the right tools will aid in avoiding costly repairs in the future.
Begin by removing the screws that hold the handle and trim. This can be accomplished with the help of a screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, you can pry the trim off. You can then access the screw that secures the handle and trim to the door. After removing the screw you can open the handle and take out the lock cylinder from the door.
If you are unable to move your keys inside, it is a sign that the lock is failing. This is due to the tumblers wearing out, and eventually stop moving up or down and thereby limiting the lock's ability to function. It is necessary to have the lock replaced by a locksmith in the event that this occurs.
If you're ready to replace your deadbolt, start by removing the screws that hold the faceplate in place. If the kit you purchased doesn't come with new screws, you should purchase them from a hardware shop. If you're installing a mortise lock you must also take out the screws that hold the external rose plate to the door. After you've removed the screws, pull the dead bolt and the plate away from the door.
Next, search for a pinhole on the inside of the handle. If you spot a pinhole then insert a straightened safety-pin into it. You can also try using a flat screwdriver in a depression or slot. This will release the lock handle and expose screws which can be removed to remove the entire lock from the door.
Fitting the new lock
If you're looking to change your lock following a burglary or simply want to improve the appearance of your door installing an entirely new lock is easy. However, it is essential to measure the door to ensure that you buy the right lock that is the right size for your door. This is especially important for deadbolt locks, as they have to be of a certain size to fit inside the strike and pocket of the bolt plate. Contact your local hardware store for assistance in case you don't know what size to use.
If you're replacing a mortice lock, make use of the existing centre rail as a guide for positioning the new mortise lock. Once you've determined the location of the lock, you'll need to drill holes along the central line of the same size as the lock. Then, chisel away wood until you have a clean rectangular space for your mortice lock to sit in. Place the lock in, and then outline the faceplate using a marking blade. double glazed window lock mechanism replacement and drill holes for screws to fix the faceplate in place.
You can save money when rekeying locks by purchasing an entry-level set that comes with an re-keyable key as well as a blank key. The kits are available from a variety of online retailers as well as hardware and home improvement stores. The kits also come with instructions to assist you in completing your task.
If you're renting, make sure to read your lease agreement before changing locks. You may be required to give your landlord the key to the new locks. You may have to replace the lock with a standard one if you are required to do this. You can buy a basic lock at your local hardware store or you can buy an advanced lock that is connected to your home's WiFI network and allows you to lock and unlock the door remotely. The best option is a Schlage Smart Lock, which can be used with a variety of door levers and knobs. It can also be linked to your smart home security hub and will send alerts when your door is locked or opened.
Installing the new lock
A damaged lock poses a security risk, so it's essential to replace it immediately. Luckily, replacing locks for doors is a quick and easy project that anyone can do. The first step is to disengage the old lock from the door. This is done by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place and then pulling it out. You may need a screwdriver or an Allen wrench, depending on the kind of lock you own. After you have removed the old lock, save all of the components and place them in a secure location.
Install the new lock on the door. The majority of kits include a cardboard template that shows how the lock will fit on the door. If the template doesn't line to your door you can trace the template with a pencil, or use a chisel to take off any extra material. Be sure that the inside latch plate is aligned with the mortise opening once the new lock is installed.
When you install the new lock, be cautious not to over tighten it. This can cause the lock to crack or even break. If you have a lock that is keyed, make sure the spindle is in alignment with the hole on the knob. If it's not then you can make use of a screwdriver to push the spindle through the lock and into the knob.
Install the decorative baseplate that comes with the lock once you've finished installing it. If the lock doesn't include base plates then you can purchase one that is compatible with your hardware.
The last step is to test the lock to make sure it functions. This can be done by inserting the key into the lock and turning the lock to make sure that it opens. If this doesn't work you should seek out a locksmith.
You can also stop burglaries by having professionals reset your locks. This involves changing the internal lock tumblers to make it insensitive to your old keys. This will allow you to feel secure and safe in your home.
Test the new lock
Installing a new lock is a great method to ensure that it will work exactly as you intended. It's very important to carefully follow the directions. You may not be able to open your door if don't. If you're not sure of what to do, you can call a professional locksmith for help. A locksmith can offer guidance on the most suitable locks for your house.
If you have trouble opening your lock, there may be a problem with the handle or latch. It is possible to lubricate the latch using graphite or spray it with WD-40. In some instances, this will fix the issue. You may need to replace the latch if the latch is not working correctly.
Another possibility is that the lock has been installed incorrectly. The handle clip inside the door is often broken or missing from the new lock. In this situation it is recommended to remove the handle from inside and insert a plastic retainer clip. The handle will then be attached to the lock and the lock tested.
It's important to check the keypad after you've changed the lock to make sure it is working correctly. You can test the keypad by inserting it and turning it. If the keypad works correctly, your door will be able to unlock and lock.
It is also advisable to check the deadbolt lock to see whether it's operating properly. If it isn't then you must take the latch off and remove the Phillips head screws on the side of the door to open it. Replace the deadbolt that was installed with the new one. Place the deadbolt in the proper direction and load the lock properly.
Spindle testing is an additional method to test the new lock. It can be performed by inserting a screwdriver in the spindle. This test should be carried out prior to reinstalling the lock to ensure that there are no mistakes in the installation.