13 Things About Door Lock Change You May Not Have Considered
How to Do a Door Lock Change
Change your door lock is an easy and inexpensive method to increase the security of your home. However, the process is not for everyone. It requires a certain amount of skill and patience.
It is necessary to replace the cylinder, which is inside the knob's body. The cylinder is what recognizes the key when it is inserted into the lock.
Take off the lock that was previously used.
First, you must remove the lock you have been using for a while. It's a fairly simple process, however there are a few things to be aware of. First, make sure that the lock you choose to install is the correct size for your door. This will ensure it fits securely, and doesn't leave a gap at the deadbolt or latch.
After you have removed the latch plate, you will be required to search for two bolts or screws in the casing's interior that hold the casing to the lock halves. Take these screws off using the help of a screwdriver, and then remove the lock from the door. If you are using a mortise locking system, there is a set screw that binds the handle to the spindle. Take off the doorknobs by removing this screw using the help of a screwdriver.
Remove the deadbolt and latch plug from your door jamb. Then, you are able to install your new lock. If you are replacing a mortise lock you should also determine the distance between the lock case and the door's edge to ensure that the new lock will be able to fit.
You may want to replace your lock for a variety of reasons, including when you suspect that someone else holds the key or if you've new roommates. In any case, you can save money by removing the lock yourself, rather than hiring a professional to do it. It's much simpler than people think and can be completed in a matter of minutes.
Remove the trim and handle from your door. With a flat screwdriver, take off the trim. It should be possible to pull off the majority of it. In certain cases you may be able to take off the handles completely. Next, examine the handle for a tiny pinhole on the inside. Then insert a straightened clip into it. This will activate the release mechanism, allowing you to take off the handle. Then, look for a small tab on the interior of the lock, and press it with a screwdriver that is flat. After the spindle is removed, you are able to take off the cylinder and housing.
Selecting a new locking system
There are a lot of options available when it comes time to pick a new lock. Consider the different types of locks and choose one that fits the design of your door. Think about the backset, which is the distance between the edge and the center of lock hole. Also consider the cross bore, which is a small hole at the edge of your door frame. Choose a lock that fits the door's thickness and swing.
The majority of door locks are graded by BHMA and the American National Standards Institute to give you an idea of how they will withstand use and how difficult to disable or pick. A lock grade 3 might be perfect for a quiet apartment in the country, while locks that are grade 1 may be better suited to the busy streets near an open-air storefront.
Most smart door locks need a digital code to open. If you're worried about hacking, or any other security concerns, speak to a professional locksmith.
Replace the cylinder
If your door lock's cylinder is damaged or broken it can be replaced within a matter of minutes with a simple do-it-yourself project. The key is to choose the correct cylinder and follow the directions that come with it. First, remove the knob or handle if it is present. Then with a screwdriver unscrew the trim that surrounds the lock cylinder. After the trim is removed, you can take off the screws holding the cylinder in position with a flathead. The cylinder can then be gently pulled out of the door.
Before you install the new cylinder, you must make sure it's the right length for your door. With a tape measure, measure the distance between the cylinder's center and the right and left sides. Purchase a new cylinder that has the same measurements. This will stop the cylinder from snapping, which could happen when the door is kicked in or when the key sticks inside.
If you have a replacement cylinder, put it in the door and turn the key. This will ensure that the cylinder is in alignment with the carrier, which is typically located on the outside of the lock. After that, you can loosen the set screw, which should be a couple of turns in the head. It is also necessary to loosen the screw on the edge of the door which secures the case if there is one.
After removing the lock cylinder after which you can replace it with a new lock by sliding the new cylinder into the case and tightening the set screw. The process of reinstalling the component that connects a cylinder to a lock indicator stem is also important. You can do this by pulling three tabs in the back of the cylindrical with needle-nosed pliers. Then, you can connect the smaller bracket to the back of the cylinder. Then, you should reinstall the strike plate and latch plate, along with the retaining rings connected to the top of the lock cylinder.
Installing a new lock
If you're replacing an old lock, you should start by measuring the width of the door. Most locksets for residential use are designed for a door thickness of 1 3/8 - 3/4 inches. If your door is thicker, you will need a door kit that is thick and includes longer screws and an extended tail piece (for door knobs) or spindle extension (for deadbolts).
Most locks come with detailed instruction manual to help you install the new hardware. Read the instructions carefully before beginning the process to ensure that you've followed all the steps. The booklet will give you a clear idea of how much skill is required to finish the task. You may want to ask a person who has experience changing locks for assistance if are changing a lock the first time.
Before installing the new lock it's recommended to tape over the openings of the old hardware. This will stop the screws from falling out of the holes, and will protect any tiles you might have put in the area. It also shields your tiles from any damage caused by rust, dirt and grime. SECURAM Touch comes with the masking strip or gaffer tape, but you can make use of any tape you have.
After you have removed the screws that connect the interior half of the lock section to the outside side, pull it straight away. It's important to do this quickly to avoid the lock from closing itself in a way that could end up harming the mechanism.
If the new lock comes with a latch bolt, fit the new bolt into its upper cross bore. Make sure you place it in the correct position that is usually marked by an indication on the faceplate. Then, screw replacement window locks onto the bolt.
Attach the deadbolt to the jamb of the door. Test the deadbolt a few times by throwing it to see if it extends into the strike plate. Follow the directions that come with your electronic smart lock to program it. This involves downloading an app, registering your e-mail address, verifying your identity and connecting to the wireless network in order to add your device.