When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock

Door locks keep your possessions and family safe, but over time they'll wear down or be damaged. There are some telltale signs that it's time to consider replacing or rekeying the lock.

While replacing locks is a more in-depth process than rekeying, it could be done at home. Here are some important reasons to consider it:

1. You're moving to a new house

The locks on your door are a vital part of your home security. It's easy for burglars gain access to locks that are damaged. This is the reason you need to know when it's time for a replacement upvc door locking mechanism.

If you are moving into a new residence then it's recommended to get the locks changed. This will ensure that you're the only one with keys and remove any suspicions of unauthorised entry from previous residents.

New lock installation is a straightforward procedure. First, you'll need to remove the old lock. This can be accomplished using a screwdriver to take out the screws that keep the knob or handle in place. Utilize the template supplied with the new lock to mark the location of the knob/handle, and latch. Once you've marked the positions, you are able to drill the hole for the face according to the lock specifications.

Once the holes are drilled, you will need to install the new lock. It is essential to ensure that the deadbolt as well as the strike plate fit well with the existing door frame. The bolt should extend approximately 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the door and should be strong enough to ensure the door is secured.

A hard blow to a strike plate or lock can easily damage the hinges. If the lock is hard to operate, it may be time to replace. It is recommended to have a professional locksmith replace the locks for you to ensure that the job is done efficiently and swiftly.

It is also possible to replace your locks if you've terminated a lease or roommate agreement. It is impossible to tell who might have a duplicate of your key. Changing the locks is therefore a prudent precaution. It also ensures that your belongings and family are safe.

2. You're having trouble opening the door.

A broken lock can be a major issue particularly when it occurs to one of your main entry doors. There are a few steps you can take to prevent the problem from becoming worse and to be capable of opening the door as quickly as you are able to.

First, make sure that the lock on your door isn't just misaligned. It could be as simple as tightening one or two screws in the event that this is the issue. If this does not fix the issue, it could be a problem with the internal mechanisms of your door lock.

Then, apply the lubricant and see if it helps to unlock the locking mechanism. The idea behind this is to help the key slide more easily into and out of the lock, so that it is able to be opened when needed. This is generally a good solution for most people, but it's important to remember that if your problem continues to persist then there may be some other issue and you'll have to consult a locksmith.

If your upvc door lock replacement lock is older than 10 years it is recommended to replace it. Door locks aren't made to last for the entire life of the door. Even the top quality door locks need to be changed at some point.

To change your lock, you will need to remove the lock that you currently have. After you have removed the lock, you'll need to measure the thickness of your door to ensure that a replacement door lock will be suitable. For example Cylinder locks come in different shapes to accommodate various door thicknesses. You may also have to replace the entire door in the event that the frame of your door has been damaged. The new lock will require a strike plate and latch plate to be installed inside the frame. They are available separately.

3. You're worried about a burglary

The possibility of a burglary could shake your faith in the security of your home. If the culprits have left their mark on the door frame (crowbar marks) or it is obvious that they are inside (smoothed out the wood around your lock, broken lock knob) Then you must replace your locks to ensure they are as secure and secure as they can be.

Even if you believed in the previous owners, it's difficult to determine if someone else has a copy. 6-7% of unlawful entry is committed by those who have a key which is why changing locks is a great preventative measure.

If the knobs are stuck or are difficult to open, this is another indication that your locks require to be replaced. This means that the mechanism within the lock is damaged due to alteration or just wear and tear, making the lock vulnerable to failure and damage.

If you're having any of these issues, consider installing a door lock that is keyless instead. These eliminate the need for keys, and can be programmed with one-time access codes for contractors or pet sitters who need access. You can also purchase door locks that have keys. This lets you get into the house without touching anything.

A new lock isn't just about safety and security It can also be a way to improve the appearance of your home. There are locks that be a match to the style of the door you have.

Contact a locksmith in your neighborhood if you are ready to make a switch. They can assist you in selecting the appropriate lock and install it quickly. Be sure to measure your door before you call an expert locksmith. The door's thickness is vital to ensure that the lock is properly fitted. If your door is larger than average, you may require a custom lock that can be fitted securely. The best place to start is by placing a wood shim directly against the door, and positioned with the tapered edge against the slot for the lock. Place the screwdriver's tip into the slot and twist, pulling the shim up. This will let the latch open and the screws holding the knobs in place and allow you to remove them.

4. You're tired of the same old keys

Replacing the door lock is a simple upgrade that will increase the security of your home. It's also an excellent DIY ability to have, particularly when you move frequently or are a landlord who has to replace locks for tenants. Learn the steps for replacing a door lock and you'll be able complete the task yourself in just a few hours.

Installing new locks is a good idea even if you trust and know the previous owners or tenants. In the end, you don't know how many people might have copies of the keys from the past that include relatives, friends, contractors, and babysitters. In fact those with keys to your home are accountable for 67% of all unlawful entries.

Make sure you purchase a replacement lock compatible with the current hardware and dimensions. Depending on the style of your door, you could select a deadbolt lock or a doorknob lock. Once you've purchased your new lock then follow these steps to install it:

Start by removing both the knobs that were previously attached to the door. Remove the screws holding the latch plate to the edge of the front door. Once you've done this remove the latch plate as well as the two screws that hold the deadbolt or strike plate to the jamb of the door.

Find the position of the handle/knob inside on the door using the template that came with your lock set. Ensure that the spindle (the long piece of metal that sticks out of the knob on the outside) is able to pass through the latch and operates it smoothly. Then, attach the interior handle/knob with the screws provided and insert the lock cylinder into your interior latch, making sure it aligns correctly and operates with the key.

Attach the deadbolt and strike plates with the screws that are included in the set of replacement upvc door lock locks. After you've completed testing your new lock, make sure you test it to make sure it works properly and the interior knob can slide easily over the pins. Then put it back together in reverse order, and you're good to go!