Reasons to Change Door Lock
You can alter your door lock for many reasons, from upgrading the security of your home to re-decorating the entryway. It is possible to replace locks when your key becomes stuck or becomes difficult to turn.
Changing your lock is an easy project that even novice DIY homeowners can take on. Find the necessary materials to begin.
Remove the old lock
The removal of the old lock from the door is a crucial step prior to installing the new one. This step is especially important in the event that you suspect someone else has access to your home. It’s also a good idea after you’ve moved into your new home, suffered a break-in or welcomed a roommate. The process is much easier than you think and can be completed in only a few minutes.
Begin by removing the screws that hold the deadbolt faceplate to the door frame. You’ll have to remove the screws on both sides of the door to take off the faceplate. This will let you observe what’s behind it and provide you with a better understanding of how to proceed in the next steps.
Once you have removed your old faceplate, you will need to remove the bolt and strike plate. Remove the bolt from the door hole using the screwdriver. If the bolt is rusted, you may have to use a chisel and smash it. If you use a chisel to remove the bolt, take care to not damage the door frame.
Make sure that the new doorknob, deadbolt and lock fit in the holes already in the door before you take out the old one. Numerous hardware stores and large box stores have a wide selection of locks, and can help you choose the right one. If the lock you bought doesn’t match your door, bring it back and ask for help.
While you are removing the lock that was previously in use, look for small slits or depressions in the handle or around the trim. If you can locate them, slide a straightened safety pin or a flat screwdriver through them to open the handle and expose screws underneath.
Once the screw inside the handle has been removed you can now begin to remove the knob from its spindle. To do this, find the set screw at the base of knob and loosen. Then, take the spindle off.
Install the new lock
It’s a good idea change the locks on doors in your home on a regular basis, particularly after a burglary or when you move into a new home with roommates. Changing the lock is an inexpensive, simple and effective way to ensure that your home is secure. With a screwdriver and a few basic instructions most people can do it by themselves. You may also wish to learn how to rekey your door lock to ensure that only you hold the key.
To begin the process, you must purchase an additional lock that matches your existing lock’s keyway. Locksmiths are usually able to change the lock’s key for a fee but you can save money by doing it yourself. You can buy a new lock from a hardware store or on the internet. Standard deadbolts will fit most doors. However, you’ll have to measure the door to ensure it fits.
Your new lock will often come with a template showing you how to install it on the door. The template can be used to drill the hole. It is much easier than having to measure each time. If the template doesn’t align with your hole, you can take it back to the store and request a replacement.
You must install the new lock on the right-hand side of the door. You can check this by checking the latch, which must be labelled “up” or something similar. Make sure the latch is seated correctly within the latch plate then secure it using the screws provided.
If you’re replacing locks on doors, it’s also important to pay attention to the way it’s operated. Most knob locks are left-handed however there are a few that are right-handed. If you’re not careful, you could place the knob on the wrong side of the door, which will hinder you from locking it from the inside or outside.
After you’re done, you should test the new lock to ensure it functions. You should be capable of upvc window locking mechanism repair the door from both the inside and the outside, and unlock it with keys. If you’re not happy with the outcome then you can always call a professional locksmith to repair it.
Test the lock
A lock that does not open can be a hassle however, it could also put your family’s safety at risk. It’s simple to solve the majority of door lock issues by conducting some troubleshooting and lubrication. Make sure that the key is properly cut, and that the lock assembly is not loose or dirty. If this doesn’t solve the problem, try lubricating your door lock actuator with powdered graphite.
Check that the door lock switch, the wiring harnesses and the actuator connector are all functioning properly. Consult the wiring diagram or manual to determine the color code and function of each wire of the door lock switch. Then, use a test light or digital meter to see if the door lock actuator is receiving power and ground when the switches are activated. If you notice a voltage toggle with every switch activation, this indicates the switches are good and it’s most likely the actuator that requires to be replaced.
If the switch appears to work but the actuator doesn’t move when you turn it, there could be a problem with the cylinder. The actuator cylinder is loaded with spring pins that stop the cylinder from moving until a key is inserted and it pushes the pins up to accommodate the height of the key in the location. The cylinder then begins to turn and open the lock body, allowing the handle latch.
If the door lock actuator is still malfunctioning, you can take the switch and wires from the actuator using small screwdrivers to unlock the locking bolt and remove the plastic cover that houses the electrical connector. After that, disconnect the door lock actuator, and let it fall. You should then be able to find the two bolts in 10mm that keep the actuator in place and then remove them. Once the actuator is removed, you should be able to disconnect the black electrical connector and then pull it out along with the actuator and Window Lock Replacements assembly.
Replace the key
If your keyed deadbolt or door knob is not working, you will need to rekey it or replace it. This isn’t difficult and can save you money. But, prior to doing this it is an excellent idea to have a locksmith look over the locks and check them for any problems. This will give peace of peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.
To begin, take off the faceplate that is on the outside of the deadbolt or doorknob. If there are screws that hold the faceplate, use a screwdriver and remove it. Next utilize a flat head screwdriver to remove the inside faceplate. After you have removed the faceplate, you can take the bolt and screw from the lock cylinder.
A locksmith can help you determine if your window lock replacements requires replacement locks for double glazed windows or changed. They can also give you guidance on the most effective security measures for your home. They can also make necessary modifications to your door and frame to ensure a perfect fit. They will also offer a warranty on their work.
You must purchase a new lock key before you are able to rekey it. It is important to use the lock key that is fitted snugly. If you use a key that isn’t right, it could cause damage to the internal mechanism and prevent it from functioning. To test the size of a key, simply insert it into the lock. If the key fits flush against the plug, then it’s the right size. If the pins stick up from the top of the plug, then they are too long.
There are many reasons you might want to replace your door lock, including:
If you’re moving into a previous owner’s residence or lose your keys, rekeying the lock could be a more affordable option than replacing it. It’s also more cost-effective than a complete replacement. However, there are some circumstances where rekeying your existing lock isn’t an option. If the lock has been damaged or repeatedly jammed, for instance, it may be the right time to replace it.