When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are designed to keep your family and possessions safe however, over time they'll wear down or be tampered with. There are a few indicators that indicate it's time for you to replace or change the key on your lock.
While replacing locks is a more complex process than rekeying, it could still be done at home. Here are a few of the most compelling reasons to consider it:
1. You're moving into your new home
Your door locks are an important element of your home's security. It is easy for burglars to gain access to damaged locks. You need to know the signs that it's time to replace your window.
If you are moving into a new house, then it is recommended to get the locks changed. This will ensure that you are the only one with keys and make it impossible to suspect unauthorized entry from previous residents.
Installing a new lock is an easy process. You will first need to remove the existing lock. This can be accomplished by using a screwdriver to remove the screws that keep the knob or handle in the position. Use the template included with the new lock to mark the locations of the knob or handle, as well as the latch. Once upvc door locks replacement salisbury Repair My Windows And Doors 've marked the positions, you are able to drill the face hole in accordance with the specifications of the lock.
Install the new lock after the holes have been made. It is crucial to ensure that the deadbolt as well as the strike plate are compatible to the door frame. The bolt should extend approximately 1/2 inch past the edge of the door, and should be strong enough to lock the door.
A hard blow to the strike plate or lock can easily damage the hinges. If the lock is difficult to operate, then this could indicate that it's time for a replacement. It's best to have the professional locksmith change your locks for you and ensure that the job is completed correctly and quickly.
There are many other reasons to change your locks, such as ending a roommate or rental agreement. It's impossible to know who may have a copy of your key, so changing the locks is a good idea. This will ensure the safety of your possessions and family members.
2. You're having difficulty opening the door.
A broken lock can be a nightmare, especially when it occurs to one of your main entry doors. There are a few steps you can take to prevent the issue from getting worse and to be able to open the door as soon as you are able to.
First, make sure whether your door lock isn't just misaligned. If this is the case, it may be as simple as tightening some of the screws. If this doesn't fix the problem, there may be an issue with the internal mechanisms of your door lock.
Then, apply a lubricant and test to see if it helps unlock the locking mechanism. This helps keys slide into and out of the locks more easily, which allows them to be opened. This is generally an effective solution for the majority of people, but it's important to keep in mind that if your issue continues to persist then there could be another issue at play and you'll need to consult locksmith.
Finally, if your door lock is older than about 10 years old It's likely the time to get a new one. This is because door locks aren't made to last the full life of a door, and even the best door locks will typically require replacement at some point.
In order to replace your lock, you'll have to remove the existing lock from your door. After removing the lock, you'll need to measure your door thickness to ensure that a replacement will be able to fit. For example, cylinder locks come in a variety of shapes to fit various thicknesses of doors. It is also important to know that if the frame of your door has been damaged in any way, you will need to replace the whole door. This is because the new lock will have to be anchored into the frame with a latch plate or strike plate as well as a deadbolt, all of which are available separately.
3. You're worried that there could be a break-in
A burglary could make you be concerned about the security of your home. If the perpetrators left their mark on the door frame (crowbar marks) or it is evident that they were inside (smoothed out the wood around your lock knob, broken lock) Then you must replace your locks to ensure that they are as secure and safe as they can be.
Even if you believe in the previous owners, there is no way to know who else may have received the key. Keys are the reason why people have keys. for a minimum of 67% of unlawful entry. It is recommended to change your locks as a good preventative measure.
Another indicator that you should replace your locks is if the knobs appear to be stuck or difficult to open. This is a sign that the internal mechanism of the lock has been damaged by alteration or just wear and tear, which makes it susceptible to damage and failure.
Consider installing a keyless lock if you are experiencing any of these problems. These locks do away with the need for keys and can be programmed to allow access for only one time for contractors or pet-sitters. You can also purchase door locks that have keys, which allow you to open the door without touching anything.
The purchase of a new lock isn't only about security and safety, it can also be a way to improve the appearance of your home. You can find locks that fit the style of your home's door.
Talk to a locksmith in your neighborhood in case you are ready to switch locks. They can help you choose the best lock and then install it quickly. Before calling a locksmith, make sure to measure your door. The door's thickness is vital to ensure that the lock is properly fitted. If your door is larger than average, you may need to get a custom-made lock that can be installed securely. The best way to begin is by placing a wood shim directly against the door, and positioned with the tapered edge facing the slot for the lock. Then, slide the screwdriver's tip into the slot and then twist and pull the shim upwards. This will open the latches and screws that hold the knobs in place which allows them to be removed.
4. You're tired of the same old keys
It's easy to upgrade your door lock and increase the security of your house. This is an excellent DIY project, particularly if your move frequently or you are a landlord that requires replacement locks for tenants. Learn the steps for replacing a door lock and you'll be able to complete the task yourself in just a few hours.
Even when you trust the previous tenants or homeowners, it's best to protect yourself by installing new locks. You never know who might have the keys. This includes friends, family members, contractors and babysitters. In reality, those who have access to your house are responsible for 6-7 percent of all illegal entry.
Be sure to purchase an upgrade lock that matches the hardware you have and the dimensions. Depending on the design of your door, you can pick deadbolt locks or a doorknob lock. Follow these steps to install your new lock:
Start by removing both knobs that were on the door. Remove the screws that hold the latch plate to the edge of the front door. After that take off the latch plate and the two screws that secure the deadbolt or strike plate to the jamb of the door.
Find the location of the interior handle/knob on the door using the template that came with your lock set. Make sure that the spindle (the long piece of metal that extends from the knob's exterior) is able to pass through the latch and operates it smoothly. Attach the knob or handle to the inside using the screws provided, and then insert the lock cylinder into the latch, making sure it is properly aligned and works with the key.
Finalize by securing the strike plates and deadbolt plate using the screws included with the lock replacement set to secure them in place. Test the new lock after you're done to ensure it's working as intended and that the inside knob slides over the pins easily. After that put everything back together in reverse order and you're all set!