When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks help keep your possessions and family safe however, over time they can wear down or be tampered with. There are a few indicators that indicate it's time to change or change the key on your lock.
Although replacing locks is more complex than rekeying it is possible to do it at home. Here are a few most compelling reasons to consider it:
1. You're moving into a new home
The locks on your door are an important aspect of the security of your home. When they're damaged, it can be easy for burglars to gain entry. It is important to recognize the indicators that indicate when it's time to replace your window.
It is a good idea, in the event of moving to a new home, to change the locks. This will ensure that you are the only one with keys and will remove any suspicions of unauthorised entry by previous residents.
The installation of a new lock is an easy procedure. The first step is to take off the old lock. This can be done by using a screwdriver to take out the screws that keep the knob or handle in place. Then, you can utilize a template supplied by the new lock set to mark the location of the handle/knob as well as the latch. Once you've identified the positions, you are able to drill the hole for the face according to the specifications of the lock.
After drilling the holes then you need to install the new lock. It is crucial to ensure that the deadbolt and strike plate are compatible with the door frame. The bolt should extend around 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the door, and should be strong enough to ensure the door is secured.
A hard blow to the strike plate or lock could easily cause damage to the hinges. If the lock is hard to operate, it could be time to replace it. It is best to have a professional locksmith change the locks on your behalf. This will ensure that the work is done quickly and properly.
There are numerous other reasons to change your locks, like ending a lease or roommate agreement. It is impossible to know who might have duplicate keys to your key. The need to change the locks is therefore a prudent precaution. It also ensures that your family and belongings are secure.
2. You're having trouble opening the door.
A broken lock is a nightmare. Particularly when it happens on your main entry door. There are a few steps you can take to prevent the issue from becoming worse and to be able to open the door as quickly as you are able to.
First, ensure that the lock on your door isn't just misaligned. If this is the case, it could be as simple as tightening some of the screws. If this doesn't solve the problem, there may be an issue with the internal mechanisms of your door lock.
Next, try using the lubricant and see if this will help to free the lock. The purpose of this is to assist the key slide more easily in and out of the lock, so that it is able to be opened when needed. This is generally a good solution for the majority of people, but it's crucial to be aware that if your issue persists, it could be another issue at play and you'll need to speak with an expert locksmith.
If your door lock is older than about 10 years old, it's probably time for a replacement. This is because door locks aren't designed to last the entire life of a door, and even the most durable door locks will typically require replacement at some point.
To change exeter front door locks replacement , you will need to remove the lock that you currently have. After that it's crucial to measure the thickness of your door to ensure you will be able to find a replacement lock that is a good fit. For example Cylinder locks come in various shapes to fit different thicknesses of doors. It is also important to note that if the frame of your door has been damaged in some way, you will need to replace the entire door. The new lock will require the latch plate and strike plate to be installed inside the frame. They are sold separately.
3. You're worried that there will be an armed robbery
A break-in can make you be concerned about the security of your house. If the culprits have left their marks on the door frame (crowbar marks) or it is evident that they were inside (smoothed out the wood around the lock knob, broken lock) Then you must replace your locks to ensure that they are as secure and secure as possible.
Even if you trusted the previous owners, it's impossible to determine if someone else has copies. 6-7% of unlawful entry is committed by those who have keys and therefore changing locks is an effective preventative measure.
If the knobs are stuck or difficult to open, this is a further indication that your locks require to be replaced. This indicates that the internal mechanism is damaged due to tampering, or simply wear and tear from age. It leaves it vulnerable to damage.
Consider installing a lock that is keyless If you're having any of these issues. These eliminate the need for keys and can be programmed with one-time access codes for contractors and pet sitters who need access. You can also get door locks that have keys, which allow you to enter without touching anything.
A new lock can be used to change the appearance of your home. It's not just about security. Depending on the style of your door, you'll be able to find locks that complement it perfectly.
If you're looking to change locks consult a local locksmith. They can help you choose the right type of lock and install it quickly. Be sure to measure the door prior to calling a professional locksmith. It is crucial to determine the thickness of your door to ensure that the new lock will fit correctly. If your door is larger than average, you may require a custom lock that can be fitted securely. Start by placing a wooden shim against the door with the tapered edge against the slot of the lock. Slide the tip of the screwdriver into the slot, then turn it, pulling up the shim. This will open the latches and screws that keep the knobs in place which allows them to be removed.
4. You're tired of the same keys
Replacing the door lock is a simple upgrade that can add to the security of your home. This is a fantastic DIY project, particularly when you move frequently or you are a landlord who has to change locks on tenants. You can change a door lock within a matter of minutes when you know the steps.
Even if you know and trust the previous homeowners or tenants it is best to play it safe by installing new locks. You never know who might have the keys. This includes family members, friends, contractors and babysitters. In fact, those who have keys to your home are responsible for a minimum of 67% of all unlawful entries.
Be sure to purchase an upgrade lock that matches the current hardware and dimensions. Depending on the style of your door, you can pick a deadbolt lock or a doorknob lock. Once you've purchased your new lock, follow these steps to install it:
Begin by removing both of the knobs that were previously attached to the door. Then, remove the screws that attach the latch plate to the door's edge. After that remove the latch plate as well as the two screws that secure the deadbolt or strike plate into the door jamb.
With the template included with your lock set, mark the positions of the knob/handle inside and the latch on the front of the door. Ensure that the spindle (the long piece of metal that extends from the exterior knob) can pass through the latch and operates smoothly. Attach the interior handle/knob with the screws provided. Place the lock cylinder in the latch in the interior. Check that it is correctly aligned and the key works with the lock.
Then, attach the deadbolt and strike plate using the screws included in your new lock set to secure them into place. Check your new lock when you're done to confirm that it works correctly and that the inside knob is able to slide over the pins. Then put it back together in reverse order, and you're all set!