How to Replace Door Locks
It isn't easy to change your door lock. It is important to protect your home from burglars. You should also replace your locks when you have a new housemate, or if you rent your home.
Most new locks are designed to fit standard door widths. If your door is wider, you'll need a "thick-door" kit with longer screws and longer tail pieces for the deadbolt.
Removal of the old lock
You'll need to take your old door lock from the door before you install the new one. You can do this using some simple tools, but make sure not to scratch your door or frame. Utilizing the right tools will save you from costly repairs in the future.
Start by taking off the screws that hold the handle and then trim. This can be done with the help of a screwdriver. After the screws have been removed, you can take off the trim. You will then be able to get to the screw that holds the trim and handle to the door. After you have removed the screw, you can remove the handle and remove the lock cylinder from the door.
One of the most frequent indications that your lock is failing is when you can no longer wiggle the key inside. This is because the tumblers are getting worn out and eventually stop moving upwards or downwards making it impossible for the lock to function. You'll need to get the lock replaced by a locksmith in the event that this happens.
When you're ready to replace your deadbolt, begin by taking off the screws that keep the faceplate in place. If your kit doesn't contain new screws, buy them from a hardware store. If you are installing a mortise lock, you will also need to remove the screws that hold the external roseplate to the door. After removal of the screws, take off the plate and the dead bolt.
Next, look for a pinhole in the handle trim inside. If you find a pinhole you can insert a straightened safety pin into it. You can also employ a flat screwdriver press against the depression. This should loosen the handle and expose screws that can be removed to take the entire lock case from the door.
Installing the new lock
Installing a new lock could be accomplished easily regardless of whether you need to replace your lock after a break-in, or you just want to improve your door's appearance. It is crucial to measure your door prior buying a lock in order to make sure it fits. This is particularly important for deadbolts, which require a specific size to fit inside the strikeplate and bolt pocket. If you're unsure of how to measure, you can get help from your local hardware store or locksmith.
If you are replacing a mortice, you can use the existing centrerail as a guide to position the new mortise. Once you've marked the position of the lock, make holes on the centre line that are the same size as the lock. Then, you can chisel your wood until you have a rectangular space to fit your mortice lock. After that, you can insert the lock and outline the faceplate with an outline knife. Mark and drill holes for screws to secure the faceplate in the correct position.
If you want to rekey locks you can save money by purchasing a starter kit that includes keys that can be re-keyed and a blank key. The kits are available at numerous online retailers, as well as hardware and home improvement stores. They also come with a set of instructions that should aid you in the process.
Make sure to read your lease agreement if you are renting prior to changing locks. You may be required to give your landlord the key to the new locks. You may need to replace the lock with a new one if you are required to do this. You can purchase a basic lock from your nearest hardware store, or you can get a high-tech smart lock that connects to your home's Wi-Fi and lets you lock and unlock your door from afar. Schlage Smart Lock is compatible with all knobs and levers. It can also be linked to your home security hub that is smart which allows you to receive notifications when your door is opened or unlocked.
Installing the new lock
A broken lock can be a security risk, therefore it is important to replace it as soon as you can. Luckily, replacing locks for doors is a simple and quick project that anyone can tackle. The first step is to remove the lock that was previously used. The screws holding it in place are removed and the lock is pulled out. You may require a screwdriver or Allen wrench depending on the kind of lock you own. After you have removed the lock that was previously used keep all parts and store them in a safe place.
Install the new lock on the door. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors include a cardboard template that shows how the lock will fit onto the door. If the template doesn't fit your door, draw a line with a pencil around it, or a the chisel to get rid of extra material. Be sure that the inside latch plate aligns with the mortise opening once the new lock is installed.
Be cautious not to tighten too much the lock when installing it. This can cause your lock to rattle, or even break. If you have a lock that is keyed, make sure the spindle is aligned with the hole on the knob. If it isn't then you can make use of a screwdriver in order to push the spindle into the lock and into the knob.
After you've installed the new lock, you are now able to install the decorative base plate that is included with it. If the lock doesn't include an appropriate base plate then you can purchase one that matches the hardware.
The last step is to test the lock to ensure that it is working. You can do this by inserting the key into the lock and turning it so that it is able to open. If it fails then you must contact a locksmith.
Rekeying your locks by a professional can also aid in preventing burglaries. This involves changing the internal tumblers on your locks so that it is not able to accept the keys you have previously used. This will help you to feel secure and secure in your home.
Testing the new lock
When installing a new lock you want to make sure that it works as intended. This is why it's essential to follow the instructions carefully. If you don't follow them, you could not be in a position to open your door. You can call the locksmith for help in case you aren't sure what to do. A locksmith can give you guidance on the most suitable locks for your house.
If you have trouble opening your lock, there may be a problem with the handle or latch. It is possible to lubricate the latch with graphite or spray it with WD-40. In some cases it can fix the problem. However, you may need to replace the latch completely if it's not functioning correctly.
Another possibility is that the lock has been installed incorrectly. The inner door handle clip can be broken or gone from the new lock. In this situation, you should grasp the handle from the inside and insert the new clip made of plastic. The handle can then be connected to the lock, and the lock tested.
It is important to test the keypad after replacing your lock to ensure that it functions properly. You can test it by inserting the key in and turning it. If the keypad works correctly, your door will be able to unlock and lock.
Examine the deadbolt to be sure it is working properly. If it's not then you must take the latch off and remove the Phillips head screws on the sides of the door to open it. Take out the old deadbolt and replace it with the new one. The deadbolt should be oriented and loaded lock correctly.
Spindle testing is a different method to test a new lock. This can be accomplished by inserting a screwdriver in the spindle. This test should be conducted prior to reinstalling the lock in order to ensure that there are no mistakes in the installation.