How to Replace Door Locks
Replacing the door lock could be a challenging task. It is crucial to secure your home from intruders. It is also advisable to change your locks when you move in with new housemates, or if you rent out your home.
The majority of new locks are designed for standard width doors. If your door is more thick, you will require an "thick door" kit that has longer screws and a longer tail piece for the deadbolt.
Removal of the old lock
If you're switching your door lock, you need to take the old lock off the door. This can be accomplished with some basic tools, but it's crucial to be careful not to cause damage to the frame or door. Using the correct tools will save you money on future repairs.
Begin by removing the screws that hold the handle and then trim. You can use a screwdriver to do this. Once the screws are removed, you can take off the trim. You will then be able to gain access to the screw that binds the trim and handle to the door. After removing screw and the lock cylinder as well as open the handle.
One of the most common indicators that your lock is getting old is when you cannot longer move the key inside. This is due to the tumblers wearing out, and will eventually stop moving up or down, disabling the lock's ability to function. It is necessary to have the lock replaced by a locksmith in the event that this occurs.
If you're ready to replace your deadbolt, begin by stripping the screws that keep the faceplate in place. If your kit doesn't contain new screws, buy them at a hardware store. If you're installing a mortise lock, you should also remove the screws that hold the external rose plate to the door. After you've removed all screws, pull the dead bolt and the plate from the door.
Next, search for a pinhole in the interior trim of the handle. If you find one, slip a straightened safety pin into it. You could also try the flat screwdriver against an opening or slot. This should release the handle and expose screws which can be removed to take the entire lock case from the door.
Installing the new lock
Whether you need to change your lock following a break-in or simply want to change the look of your door installing a new lock is relatively easy. However, it's important to measure your door to make sure you buy the right lock that is the right size for your door. This is especially crucial for deadbolts, as they need to be a certain size in order to fit inside the strikeplate and bolt pocket. If you're not sure how to measure, you can seek help from your local hardware store or locksmith.
If you're replacing mortice locks, make use of the existing centre rail to guide you in the placement of the new mortise lock. Once you have marked the location of the lock, make holes along the central line of the same size as the lock. After that, chisel the wood until you have an even rectangular space that will accommodate the mortice lock. Insert the lock and then outline the faceplate using an outliner. Mark and drill screw holes to secure the faceplate.
When RepairMyWindowsAndDoors are rekeying locks you can save money by buying a starter kit that includes keys that can be re-keyed and a key blank. 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.
Check your lease agreement if you're renting before changing locks. You may have to give the landlord the key to the new locks. You may have to replace the lock with a standard one if you have to do this. You can buy a basic lock from your local hardware store, or you can purchase an advanced lock that connects to your home's WiFI network and lets you to lock and unlock the door from a distance. Schlage Smart Lock is compatible with all knobs and levers. This system can also be connected to your home security hub that is smart, allowing you to receive alerts whenever your door is locked or opened.
Installing the new lock
A broken lock can be an issue for security, so it is essential to replace it as fast as possible. The good news is that replacing the door lock is a quick and easy project that anyone can tackle. The first step is to take out the lock that was previously used. The screws holding the lock in place are removed and the lock is pulled out. Depending on the type of lock you have, you may need an Allen wrench or screwdriver. Save all the parts of the lock that were used and put them in a secure place.
Then, insert the new lock on the door. The majority of kits come with a cardboard template of how the lock will fit to the door. If the template doesn't match to your door, you can trace around it with a pencil or use a chisel to remove extra material. Be sure that the inside latch plate aligns with the mortise hole once the new lock is installed.
When you install the new lock, be careful not to over tighten it. This can cause your lock to rattle, or even break. If you have a keyed lock, be sure that the spindle is in alignment with the hole in the knob. If it isn't you can make use of a screwdriver in order to push the spindle into the lock and into the knob.
After you have completed installing the new lock, it is now time to install the base plate that comes with it. If the lock doesn't come with a decorative base plate, you can buy one that matches the hardware.
Test the new lock to confirm that it functions. This can be done by inserting the lock's key and turning the lock to make sure that it opens. If this doesn't work you need to contact a locksmith.
Rekeying your locks by an expert can help prevent break-ins. This process involves changing the internal lock tumblers so that it will no longer accept your old keys. This will make you feel secure and secure in your home.
Test the new lock
When installing a new lock, you must ensure that it operates as intended. It is essential to follow the instructions. If you don't follow them, you could not be capable of opening your door. If you're not sure what to do, contact a professional locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can give you guidance on the most suitable locks for your house.
If you're having trouble opening your lock, there might be a problem with the handle or latch. Try lubricating your latch by spraying it with WD-40. In some cases, this will fix the issue. However, you may have to replace the latch completely if it's not working properly.
The lock could have been installed incorrectly. The handle clip inside the door is often broken or missing from the new lock. In this instance it is recommended to remove the handle from the inside and insert a plastic retainer clip. After that, you can connect the handle to the lock and test its operation.
After you've replaced the lock it is important to test the keypad to make sure that it's functioning correctly. You can test the keypad by inserting it and turning it. If the keypad works properly, your door should be able to unlock and lock.
You should also examine the deadbolt lock to determine whether it's operating properly. If it's not working, remove the latch on the door and undo the Phillips-head screws. Replace the old deadbolt with the new one. Orient and load the deadbolt lock correctly.
Spindle testing is an additional method to test the new lock. This can be accomplished by inserting a screwdriver into the spindle. This test should be conducted prior to reinstalling the lock in order to avoid any mistakes.