Replace Door Lock Isn't As Tough As You Think
How to Replace Door Locks
It isn't easy to change the lock on your door. It is important to keep your home secure from intruders, and to replace locks if you have a new housemate or let out your home.
The majority of new locks are designed to fit standard door widths. If your door is thicker you will need a "thick-door" kit that comes with longer screws and longer tail pieces for the deadbolt.
Removal of the old lock
If you're switching your door lock it is necessary to remove the old one from the door. This can be done with the help of a few tools, but be careful not to harm your door frame or door. Using the right tools will aid in avoiding costly repairs in the future.
Remove the screws that hold on the trim and handle. This can be accomplished with the help of a screwdriver. Once the screws have been removed, you can take off the trim. You can then get to the screw that holds the handle and trim to the door. After removing the screw you can remove the handle and take out the lock cylinder from the door.
When you can't wiggle your key inside, this is a sign that the lock is not working. This is because the tumblers are wearing out, and will eventually stop moving up and down making it impossible for the lock to function. If this happens, you'll need to bring the lock to a locksmith for it to be reset-keyed.
Begin by removing the screws holding the faceplate in place. If your kit doesn't contain new screws, you should purchase them from a hardware store. If you're installing a mortise lock, you should also remove the screws that secure the external rose plate to the door. After you've removed the screws remove the plate and dead bolt away from the door.
Then, look for a pinhole in the interior handle trim. If you find a hole, insert a straightened safety-pin into it. You can also try the flat screwdriver against the slot or depression. This will release the lock handle and expose screws that can be removed to remove the entire lock from the door.
Installing the new lock
Installing a new lock could be done with ease regardless of whether you wish to replace your lock following an incident of burglary, or simply want to change your door's appearance. It is important to measure your door prior buying a lock to make sure it fits. This is particularly important for deadbolt locks that require a specific size to fit in the strike pocket and bolt plate. Ask your local hardware store for assistance when you're not sure what size to use.
If you're replacing a mortice use the existing centrerail as a reference to position the new mortise. After you've marked the location of the lock, you'll need to drill holes along the centre line that are the same width of the lock. Then, you can chisel your wood until you've got an area that is rectangular enough to fit the mortice lock. Then, insert the lock and outline the faceplate using a marking knife. Mark and drill screw holes to secure the faceplate into the correct position.
You can save money on changing locks by purchasing an initial set that includes an re-keyable key as well as an unlocked key. These kits are available from many online retailers as well as home improvement and hardware stores. window door lock repair come with a set of instructions to aid you in the process.
Make sure to read your lease agreement if you are renting before changing locks. It may require that you give the landlord a key to the new lock. It is possible to replace the old lock with a more standard one if you have to do so. You can purchase a standard lock at the hardware store near you or you can invest in a high-tech lock that connects with your home's WiFI and allows you lock and unlock the door remotely. A good choice is a Schlage Smart Lock, which is compatible with most door knobs and levers. This system can be connected to a smart home security hub to allow you to receive alerts when your door is locked or opened.
Installing a new lock
A broken lock is a security risk, so it is essential to replace it as quickly as possible. It's a good thing that replacing a door lock is a simple and quick project that anyone can tackle. The first step is to remove the lock that was previously installed from the door. This is done by unscrewing the screws that secure it and then removing it. You may need a screwdriver or Allen wrench based on the type of lock you have. After you have removed the lock that was previously used, save all of the parts and store them in a safe place.
Install the new lock into the door. Most kits come with a cardboard template showing how the lock should be placed on the door. If the template doesn't fit your door, use a pencil to trace around it or a the chisel to get rid of extra material. After the new lock is in place, make sure the interior latch plate is aligned with the mortise hole for a secure fit.
Be cautious not to tighten too much the lock when installing it. This can cause the lock to crack or even break. If you have a lock keyed, make sure the spindle is in alignment with the hole on the knob. If it's not, make use of the screwdriver to drive the lock into the knob.
After you have completed installing the new lock, you can now install the decorative base plate that comes with it. If the lock doesn't include base plates, you can purchase one that matches your hardware.
Test the new lock to confirm that it works. This can be done by inserting the key into the lock and turning the lock to make sure that it opens. If it doesn't work then you should contact a locksmith.
Rekeying your locks with an expert can help to prevent burglaries. This procedure involves changing the lock's internal tumblers so that it will not accept your old keys. This will allow you to feel safe and secure at home.
Test the new lock
When you are installing a new lock you must ensure that it operates as intended. This is why it's essential to follow the instructions carefully. You might not be able to unlock your door if you don't. If you're unsure of what to do, call a professional locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can also give advice about the best locks for your home.
If you're having trouble opening your lock, there might be a problem with the latch or handle. Try lubricating the latch with graphite or spraying it with WD-40. In some instances, this will fix the issue. However, you may have to replace the latch completely if it's no longer working properly.
Another possibility is that the lock has been installed incorrectly. The inner door handle clip can be broken or not present on the new lock. In this instance, you should grab the handle from the inside and insert a plastic retainer clip. The handle can then be connected to the lock, and the lock will be tested.
It's crucial to check the keypad after you've replaced your lock to make sure it functions properly. You can test the keypad by inserting it 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 working properly, remove the latch on the door and undo the Phillips-head screws. Replace the deadbolt you have used with the new one. Make sure you orient and load in the deadbolt lock properly.
Another way to test the new lock is to use the spindle test. This can be accomplished by inserting the spindle with a screwdriver. This test should always be performed before reinstalling the lock in order to avoid any mistakes.