Blog entry by Leslie Gollan
When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are designed to protect your belongings and family secure. However, they may become worn out or tampered with over time. There are a few warning indications that it's time for you to think about replacing or rekeying the lock.
Although lock replacement is more involved than rekeying, it could still be done at home. Here are a few top reasons why you should take a look at it:
1. You're moving into your new home
The locks on your doors are a crucial part of your home's security. If they're damaged or broken it's possible for burglars to gain entry. This is the reason you need to know when it's the right time to purchase the replacement locks for patio doors.
It is a good idea, if you are moving into a new house, to change the locks. This will ensure you are the sole owner of keys and eliminate any suspicion that previous residents may have entered your home without permission.
Installing the new lock is a straightforward process. The first step is to take off the old lock. This can be accomplished by using a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the knob or handle in the position. Utilize the template supplied with the new lock to mark the locations of the handle/knob, and latch. After you have marked the positions, you are able to drill the face hole according to the specifications of the lock.
Once the holes are drilled and the lock is installed, you must install the new lock. It is important to ensure that the deadbolt as well as the strike plate fit well with the door frame. The bolt should extend around 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the door and should be sufficiently tight to lock the door.
It is also recommended to have hinges replaced as these can easily become damaged by a strong impact on the lock or strike plate. Finally, if the lock is difficult to operate, then this could indicate that it's time for an upgrade. It is best to have a professional locksmith change your locks for you and ensure that the job is done efficiently and swiftly.
There are many other reasons to replace your locks, like ending a lease or roommate agreement. It's impossible to tell who might have copies of your keys, so changing the locks is a wise precaution. It will also ensure that your belongings and family are safe.
2. You're having difficulty opening the door
A broken lock can be a major issue, especially when it occurs to one of your primary entry doors. There are a few simple steps you can follow to prevent the issue from getting worse and be capable of opening the door as quickly as you are able to.
The first step is to look at the door lock and make sure that it isn't simply misaligned. If this is the case, it may be just as easy as tightening one of the screws. If this doesn't solve the problem, there may be a problem with the internal mechanisms of your door lock.
Then, apply an oil-based lubricant to see if it helps to unstick the locking mechanism. This helps the keys slide in and out of the locks more easily, making it possible for them to be opened. This is generally an effective solution for most people, but it's important to remember that if the issue continues to persist then there could be a different issue that is causing it, and you will need to consult a locksmith.
If your door lock is more than 10 years old It's likely time to replace it. patio door locks replacement locks aren't made to last for the lifetime of the door. Even the most durable door locks must be changed at some point.
To replace your lock, you must remove the lock that you currently have. After that it is important to measure the thickness of your door to ensure you can find a lock that is suitable for your door. For example Cylinder locks come in a variety of shapes to fit different thicknesses of doors. It is also possible to replace the entire door in the event that the frame of your door has been damaged. This is because the new lock needs to be secured into the frame with a latch plate, strike plate, and deadbolt. All of these are available in separate.
3. You're worried there will be an attack
The possibility of a burglary can shake your faith in the security of your home. If the perpetrators left marks on your door's 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 secure and safe as you can.
Even if you believed in the previous owners, it's impossible to determine if someone else has a copy. Keys are the reason why people have keys. for a minimum of 67% of illicit entry. It is recommended to change your locks as an effective preventative measure.
Another indication that you need to replace your locks is if the knobs appear to be stuck or difficult to open. This could indicate that the mechanism within has been damaged through manipulation, or simply due to wear and tear from age. It makes it more vulnerable to damage.
Consider installing a lock that is keyless If you're experiencing any of these issues. They eliminate the requirement for keys and can be programmed to allow access only for contractors or pet-sitters. You can also buy door locks that have keypads. This allows you to access your home without touching anything.
A new lock can change the appearance of your home. It's not just about security. Depending on the style of your door, you'll be able to choose locks that match it perfectly.
If you're looking to change locks, talk to an experienced locksmith in your area. They can assist you in selecting the right lock and install it quickly. Before you call a locksmith, be sure to take measurements of your door. The door's thickness is vital to ensure that the replacement lock fits properly. If your door is larger than average, you may need to get a custom-made lock that can be installed securely. A good way to begin is by placing a wood shim directly 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 open the latch and the screws holding the knobs in place which will allow you to take them off. them.
4. You're tired with the same old keys
replacing upvc door lock and handle your door lock is a simple upgrade that can increase the security of your home. It's also a great DIY ability to have, particularly in the event that you frequently move or are a landlord that needs to change locks for tenants. Learn the steps to replace a door lock and you'll be able to do it yourself in a few short hours.
Installing new locks is a good idea even if you trust and know the previous homeowners or tenants. After all, you never know how many people might have copies of the keys from the past which includes family, friends contractors, babysitters, and contractors. In fact, 6-7 percent of all illegal entry is committed by those who have access to your home.
Before you begin, be sure to buy a new lock that's compatible with the existing hardware and dimensions. You can select between a deadbolt or knob lock, based on the style of your door. Once you've got your new lock and you're ready to install it, follow these steps: install it:
Start by removing the knobs on both sides of the door. Remove the screws holding the latch plate on the edge of the front door. After removing the screws, take off the latchplate as well as the two screws holding the strike plate or the deadbolt plate to the door jamb.
Using the template that comes with your lock set, mark the location of the handle/knob inside and the latch on the front of the door. The spindle (the metal piece that protrudes from the knob's exterior) should pass through the latch with ease. Attach the knob or handle to the inside using the screws provided, and then insert the lock cylinder into your interior latch, ensuring that it is properly aligned and works with the key.
Finish by attaching the deadbolt and strike plate with the screws that come with your replacement lock installed to secure them in place. After you've completed the process testing your new lock, make sure you test it to ensure that it functions properly and the interior knob slides easily over the pins. Then, reassemble everything in reverse order.