This Week's Top Stories About Door Lock Change
How to Do a Door Lock Change
Change of the door lock is an easy and inexpensive way to improve your home security. This isn't for everyone. It requires a certain amount patience and expertise.
The cylinder is contained within the knob body. The cylinder is what recognizes the key when it is put into the lock.
Take off the lock that was previously used.
The first step in replacing the door lock is to remove the old lock. It's a fairly simple process, however there are a few points to keep in mind. Make sure that the new lock fits the door. This will ensure that it fits properly and does not leave a gap in the latch or deadbolt plug.
After you have removed the latch plate, you'll need to look for two screws or bolts on the inside of casing which are holding the casing in place with the two halves of the lock. Unscrew window lock replacements RepairMyWindowsAndDoors with a screwdriver, then take the lock out of the door. If you have a mortise lock, there could be a set screw located at the base of the handle that binds it to the spindle. Take off the doorknobs by removing this screw with a screwdriver.
Remove the deadbolt and latch plug from the door jamb. Install your new lock. If you're replacing a mortise you must determine the distance between the lock case and your door's edge to ensure that your new lock fits.
There are a variety of reasons that could prompt you to change the door lock, for instance being concerned that someone else may have the key, or you are welcoming an incoming roommate. You could save money if you remove the lock yourself, instead of hiring for a professional. It's much easier than most people imagine and can be completed in just a few moments.
Remove the trim and handle of your door. With a flat screwdriver take off the trim. You should be able twist off the majority of it. In some cases you might be able to take off the handles completely. Then, look for a small pinhole on the inside and insert a straightened clip into it. This will activate the release mechanism, allowing you to remove the handle. Then, look for a small tab on the interior of the lock, and press it with a flat screwdriver. Once the spindle has been removed, you can then remove the housing and cylinder.
Selecting a new locking system
When it comes to selecting a new lock there are a lot of choices. Take a look at various types of locks and choose one that is compatible with your door's style. Take into consideration the backset which is the distance between the edge and the center of the hole in the lock. Also consider the cross bore, which is a small hole in the middle of your door's frame. Also, make sure to choose a lock that will accommodate the door's thickness as well as swing.
Most door locks have been evaluated by BHMA and the American National Standards Institute to provide you with an idea of how well they are able to withstand the rigors of use and how difficult they are to disable or pick. A grade 3 lock could be the best choice for a peaceful urban apartment complex, whereas an entry grade lock could be more able to withstand the traffic near a busy store front on a city street.
Most smart door locks require a digital code to open. If you're worried about hacking, or other security issues, talk to a professional locksmith.
Replace the cylinder
If your door lock's cylinder is broken or damaged you can repair it in just a few minutes by completing a do-it-yourself project. The key is to choose the correct cylinder and follow the directions that are included with it. First, take off the knob or handle, if it is present. Then with a screwdriver remove the trim that is around the lock cylinder. After the trim is removed, you can reach the screws that keep the cylinder in place and remove them using the flat-head screwdriver. The cylinder is then gently lifted out of the door.
Before you install the new cylinder, make sure that it is the right length for the door you are using. Find the distance from the center to the left and right sides of the cylinder with an instrument. Buy a new cylinder that has the same measurements. This will stop the cylinder from snapping, which can occur when the door is kicked in or when the key gets stuck inside.
Place the replacement cylinder inside the door and then turn the key. This will align the cylinder with your carrier that is usually located on the outside of the lock. After that, you can loosen the set screw that should be just a few turns in the head. If there is a screw located on the exterior of the case that holds the door, you will need to loosen it.
You can replace the cylinder that was used to lock your old lock with the new one by slipping it into the case, and then tightening the set screws. You should also reinstall the part that connects the cylinder with the stem of the lock indicator that you can do by pulling out three tabs on the back of the cylinder using needle-nose pliers. Attach the bracket that is smaller to the cylinder's back. Then, you must put back in the strike plate and latch plate as well as the retaining ring attached to the top of the lock cylinder.
Installing a new lock
Begin by measuring the width of your door if you are replacing an existing lock. The majority of residential locksets have a thickness of 1 3/8 inch to 1 3/4 inches. If your door is more thick, you will need an extra-thick door kit that includes longer screws and an extended tail piece (for door knobs) or spindle extension (for deadbolts).
The majority of locks come with a detailed instruction manual to assist you in installing the new hardware. Take the time to read the instructions before starting the process to ensure that you are following all of the necessary steps. The booklet will give you an idea of how much skill is required to finish the task. It is possible to ask a person who has worked with locks for assistance if you are changing a lock the first time.
Before installing the new lock, it's a good idea to cover the openings with tape the old hardware. This will stop screws from slipping through the holes, and protect any tiles you might have put in. It also helps prevent possible damage caused by rust, dirt, and grime. SECURAM Touch includes the masking strip or gaffer tape. However, you can use any tape you own.
After you have removed the screws holding the interior portion of the lock section to the outside side then pull it out straight away. This must be done quickly to avoid the lock from accidentally closing and harming the mechanism.
If the new lock comes with an internal latch bolt, insert the new latch bolt into its upper cross bore. Make sure that you place it in the correct location, which is indicated by an arrow. Next, fit the latch plate over the bolt and screw it into place.
Screw the deadbolt into the door jamb. Test the deadbolt a few times, throwing it around to ensure it is extending into the strike plate. If you're using an electronic smart lock, be certain to follow the instructions to program it. This requires downloading an application and registering your e-mail address, verifying you identity and connecting to the wireless network to connect your device.