This Week's Top Stories About Door Lock Change
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, this procedure isn't for everyone. It requires some expertise and patience.
It is necessary to replace the cylinder that is inside the knob's body. The cylinder is responsible for recognizing the key when it is put into the lock.
The old lock can be removed
The first step to replace the door lock is to get rid of the old lock. It's a simple process, but you should keep certain things in mind. Make sure the new lock fits your door. This will ensure that it fits snugly and doesn't create a gap around the latch or deadbolt plug.
After removing the latch plate, you'll need to look for two screws or bolts in the casing's interior which are holding the casing together with the lock halves. Remove these screws with 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 holds the handle to the spindle. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw, and then take out the doorknobs.
You should also remove the latch and deadbolt plug from the hole in the door jamb. Install your new lock. If you're replacing a mortise, you must take a measurement of the distance between your lock case and your door edge to make sure that the new lock is a good fit.
You may want to replace your lock for a variety of reasons, such as the possibility that someone else is holding the key or you've got new roommates. In any event, you could save money by removing the lock yourself instead of paying an expert to remove it. It is much easier than most people imagine and can be completed in just a few moments.
Start by taking the trim and handle from the door. With a flat screwdriver, remove the trim. It should be possible to pull off the majority of it. In some cases you might be able to take off the handles completely. Next, look for a pinhole on the inside of the handle and insert an unstraightened clip into it. This will activate the release mechanism, allowing you to remove the handle. Then, look for a small tab in the interior of the lock, and press it with a flat screwdriver. Once the spindle is removed, you are able to remove the cylinder and the housing.
Selecting a new lock
When it comes time to pick a new lock, you have many options. Consider different 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 middle of the hole for the lock. Also consider the cross bore, a small hole at the edge of your door's frame. Choose a lock that fits the door thickness and swing.
The American National Standards Institute and BHMA have graded all door locks to give you an idea of their longevity and the difficulty to pick them or disable them. A grade 3 lock may be perfect for a quiet apartment in a rural area, whereas locks that are grade 1 might be more appropriate for a busy street near an open-air storefront.
Most smart door locks need a digital code to open. If you're worried about hacking or other security concerns, consult an expert locksmith.
Replacing the cylinder
If the cylinder of your door lock is broken or damaged it can be replaced within a matter of minutes using a simple DIY project. It is essential to choose the appropriate cylinder and follow all instructions. The first step is to take off the handle or knob in the event that one is present and then remove the trim around the base of the lock cylinder using a screwdriver. After the trim is removed, you can access the screws that secure the cylinder and remove them using a flathead screwdriver. 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. Find the distance from the center to the right and left sides of the cylinder using the aid of a tape measure. Purchase a new cylinder which has the same measurements. This will prevent cylinders from snapping when doors are hit or the key is stuck inside.
Place the replacement cylinder inside the door, and then turn the key. This will align the cylinder with the carriage which is located usually on the outside of your lock. Then, you can loosen the set screw, which should be just a few turns inside the head. You will also need to loosen the screw on the edge of the door that fastens the case, if there is one.
After taking double glazed window lock repairs out after which you can replace it with the new lock by sliding the new cylinder into the case and tightening the set screw. You should also reinstall the part that connects the cylinder to the stem for the lock indicator that you can do by pulling out three tabs on the back of the cylinder with needle-nose pliers. Then, you'll be able to attach the remaining smaller bracket to the back of the cylinder. You must then install the strike plate and latch plate, as well as the retaining rings that are fixed 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. Most residential locksets are designed for a door thickness of 1 3/8 - 3/4 inches. If your door is more thick it will require a door kit that is thick and includes longer screws as well as a longer tail piece (for door knobs) or spindle extensions (for deadbolts).
The majority of locks come with a comprehensive installation guide to assist you. Before you begin, go through the instructions to make sure you've followed the steps. The guide will give you an idea of the level of skill that is required to complete the task. If you're replacing a lock for the first time, you might want to ask an experienced friend for assistance.
It's a great idea to seal the openings of the old lock before installing the new lock. This will keep the screws from slipping out of the holes and safeguard any tile you may have put in the area. It also shields your tiles from damage caused by rust, dirt and grime. SECURAM Touch comes with the masking strip or gaffer tape. However, you can use any tape you have.
After taking off the screws that connect the lock's inner half to its exterior, remove the lock immediately. It is important to do this quickly to prevent the lock from closing accidentally and damaging the mechanism.
If your new lock is equipped with an latch bolt, install the new bolt into its upper cross bore. Make sure you place it in the correct position, which is usually indicated by an arrow on the faceplate. Then, you can screw the latch plate onto the bolt.
Screw the deadbolt into the jamb of the door. Try the deadbolt a few times by throwing it to ensure it is extending into the strike plate. If you're using an electronic smart lock, make sure to follow the instructions to program it. This involves downloading an app and creating an email address, verifying your identity, and then connecting to the wireless network to connect your device.