How to Replace Door Locks
Replacing the door lock could be a challenging task. It is important to protect your home from burglars. You should also change your locks when you get new housemates, or if you rent out your house.
The majority of modern locks are designed to fit standard width doors. If your door is thicker you'll require a "thick-door" kit that has longer screws and longer tail pieces for the deadbolt.
Removal of the old lock
If you're replacing the lock on your door, you need to take the old lock off the door. This can be done using some basic tools, but it's important to ensure that you don't cause damage to the frame or door. Making use of the right tools can aid in avoiding costly repairs in the future.
Begin by removing the screws that hold the handle and trim. This can be done with the help of a screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, you can take the trim off. Then, you can get to the screw that holds the handle and trim to the door. After you have removed the screw, you can remove the handle and take out the lock cylinder from the door.
When you can't wiggle your key inside, it is an indication that the lock is not working. This is because the tumblers wear out and eventually stopping their movement upwards or downwards, causing the lock to cease to function. You'll need to have the lock changed by a locksmith if this occurs.
When you're ready to replace your deadbolt, begin by removing the screws that keep the faceplate in place. If your kit doesn't include new screws, purchase them from a hardware store. If you're installing a mortise lock you must also remove the screws that hold the external rose plate to the door. After taking off the screws, you can remove the plate and dead bolt.
Then, look for a pinhole on the interior handle trim. If you find a hole, insert a straightened safety-pin into it. You can also make use of a flat screwdriver to press against the depression. This should open the lock handle and expose screws which can be removed in order to remove the entire lock from the door.
Fitting the new lock
Installing a new lock could be accomplished easily regardless of whether you need to replace your lock following a break-in, or you simply want to update your door's appearance. It is crucial to measure your door before purchasing a lock to ensure it fits. This is especially important for deadbolt locks, which require a specific size to fit into the strike pocket and bolt plate. If upvc window lock replacement 're not sure of how to measure, you can ask for assistance at your local hardware store or locksmith.
If you're replacing mortice locks, you can use the existing centre rail to guide you in the placement of the new mortise lock. Once you've marked the position of the lock, you'll need to drill holes on the centre line that are the same width as the lock. Then, chisel away wood until you've got a clear rectangular space for the mortice lock to fit into. Then, insert the lock and outline the faceplate with an outline knife. Mark and drill holes for screws to fix the faceplate in place.
You can save money on rekeying locks by purchasing an initial set that includes keys that can be re-keyed and an unlocked key. The kits are available at many online retailers as well as home improvement and hardware stores. They also come with a set instructions to aid you in the process.
Review your lease agreement if you're renting before changing locks. It may require that you provide the landlord with a key to the new lock. You may have to replace the old lock with a more standard one if you have to do so. You can purchase a standard lock at your local hardware retailer, or buy a smart lock that connects to your home's Wi-Fi and lets you lock and unlock your door remotely. The best option is a Schlage Smart Lock, which is compatible with all door levers and knobs. This system can also be connected to your smart home security hub and will send alerts whenever your door is locked or opened.
Installing a new lock
A broken lock can be an issue for security, so it is essential to replace it as quickly as you can. Luckily, replacing locks for doors is a simple project that anyone can do. The first step is to remove the old lock. The screws that hold it in place are removed and the lock is pulled out. Depending on the kind of lock you have, you may need an Allen wrench or a screwdriver. Keep all the parts of the old lock and put them in a secure place.
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 match your door, draw a line with a pencil around it or use a chisel for extra material removal. Be sure that the inside latch plate is aligned with the mortise hole after the new lock has been installed.
Be cautious not to over tighten the lock when installing it. This could cause the lock to rattle or even break. If you have a keyed lock make sure the spindle is in alignment with the knob's hole. If it isn't, you can use a screwdriver to push the spindle into the lock and into the knob.
After you've installed the new lock, it is now time to install the base plate that comes with it. If the lock doesn't come with a base plate that is decorative you can purchase one that matches the hardware.
The final step is to test the lock to make sure it works. You can do this by inserting the key into the lock and turning it until you are sure that it opens. If it doesn't work then you must contact a locksmith.
Rekeying your locks with professionals can also aid in preventing burglaries. This process involves changing the lock's internal tumblers so that it will no longer accept your old keys. This will keep your home secure and will give you peace of mind.
Test the new lock
When installing a new lock you need to ensure that it functions as you intended. It's very important to carefully follow the directions. If you don't follow them, you could not be able to open your door. You can call the locksmith for help if you are unsure of what to do. A locksmith can also give guidance on the best locks for your home.
If you're having trouble opening your lock, there might be a problem with the handle or latch. You can lubricate the latch using graphite or spray it with WD-40. In some instances it will resolve the problem. However, you may need to replace the latch completely if it isn't working correctly.
The lock could have been installed incorrectly. The handle clip inside the door is often broken or missing from the new lock. In this case, you should grasp the handle from the inside and insert a new plastic retainer clip. The handle is then linked to the lock and the lock tested.
After you've changed the lock, it is important to check the keypad to make sure that it's working correctly. You can test it by placing the key inside and turning it. If the keypad functions correctly, it will unlock and lock your door.
Check the deadbolt to make sure it's working correctly. If it's not then you must remove the latch and loosen the Phillips head screws on the side of the door to release it. Remove the old deadbolt and replace it with a new one. Make sure you orient and load in the deadbolt lock in the correct way.
Another way to test the new lock is to use the spindle test. This can be done by putting an instrument into the spindle. This test should always be carried out prior to reinstalling a lock to avoid any mistakes.