7 Simple Changes That'll Make A Huge Difference In Your Change Door Lock
Reasons to Change Door Lock
You can change your door lock for a variety of reasons, from improving the security of your house to redecorating the entryway. You might also have to change locks if your key gets stuck or is difficult to turn.
Changing your lock is a straightforward project that even novice DIY homeowners can complete. To begin, gather the required materials.
Remove the old lock
Before installing a new lock it is necessary to remove the old one from the door. This is especially crucial if you suspect that someone else has a key to your home. It may also be an ideal option if you have moved into a house that was burglarized, or received a new roommate. It's easier than you think and can be done in a matter of minutes.
Begin by getting rid of the screws that attach the deadbolt faceplate on the frame of the door. To remove the faceplate, you will need to take off screws on both sides. This will allow you see what's behind it and provide you with an understanding of how to continue with the rest of steps.
Once you have removed the old faceplate, you will have to take off the bolt and strike plate. Use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the bolt and remove it from the hole in the door. If the bolt is rusty you may have to use a chisel to remove it. If you use a chisel to remove the bolt, make sure to not to damage the door frame.
Make sure the new deadbolt, doorknob and lock fit in the existing holes in the door before removing the old one. Many hardware stores and large box stores carry a variety of locks and will assist you in selecting the best one. If the lock you purchased does not match your door, send it back and seek assistance.
While you are removing the old lock, search for small notches or depressions in the handle or around the trim. If you can find them, slide a straightened safety pin or a flat screwdriver through them to loosen the handle and expose the screws beneath.
After the screw in the handle has been removed, you can begin to remove the knob from its spindle. To do this, locate the set screw that is located on the base of the knob and loosen it. Next, you will need to remove the knob from the spindle, and carefully remove the spindle from the door.
Install the new lock
It's a good idea to change the locks on your doors regularly particularly if you've been the victim of a break-in. Changing the lock is an inexpensive, simple and efficient way to ensure that your home is secure. The majority of people can do this themselves with a screwdriver and some basic directions. Depending on your situation you might also need to learn how to change the key of a door lock so that only you have the key.
You'll need to buy a new lock with the same keyway as the existing lock. Many locksmiths will change the lock's key at an additional cost, but you can save money by doing this yourself. You can purchase a new lock from an hardware store or online. A standard deadbolt will typically be able to fit on doors of all sizes however, you'll have to measure the size of your door to make sure that it's a good fit.
The majority times, your new lock will come with the cardboard template that will show you how it will fit on the door. It can be used as a guide when drilling the hole, which is much more convenient than measuring each time. If the template does not exactly match your hole, bring it back to the shop and get another one.
When installing the new lock, you must remember to put it on the right side of the door. You can check this by looking at the latch, which ought to be marked "up" or something similar. Make sure the latch is sitting correctly within the latch plate then secure it using the screws supplied.
When replacing a knob lock be sure to be aware of the handing. Most knob locks are left-handed, however, there are some that are right-handed. If you're not paying attention, the knob could be installed on the wrong side of your door, which will make it impossible to lock from the inside or outside.
When you're done testing your new lock to confirm that it works. It should be able to lock and unlock the door using keys from the inside as well as from the outside. If you aren't satisfied with the results, you can always call an expert locksmith to repair it.
Test the lock
A door lock that will not open can be a hassle but it can also put your family's safety at risk. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix the majority of issues with door locks by performing some troubleshooting and lubrication. Make sure that the key is properly cut and the lock assembly isn't dirty or loose. If this doesn't solve the problem, you can try lubricating the door lock actuator with powdered graphite or a silicone-based grease.
Check that the door lock switch, the wiring harnesses, and the actuator connector are working correctly. Refer to the wiring diagram or manual to determine the color-coding and function of the wires for each door lock switch. Utilize a digital meter or test light to determine if the actuator is receiving power and ground whenever the switches are turned on. If you see a voltage toggle with each switch activation, that means the switches are working and it's probably the actuator that requires to be replaced.
If the switch seems to be working but the actuator does not move when you turn it, there may be a problem with the cylinder. The actuator cylinder is equipped with pins that have a spring-loaded. They stop the cylinder from moving until the key is inserted, and then they push them upwards to the same height as the key at the location. Then, the cylinder to turn and open the lock body which allows the handle to latch.
If your door lock actuator is faulty, you can remove the switch and wires from the actuator using small screwdrivers to loosen the locking bolt and separate the plastic cover which holds the electrical connector. Then disconnect the door actuator from the lock and let it fall down. Then, you should be able locate and remove the two 10mm bolts that hold the actuator in place. After the actuator has been removed, you'll be able to disconnect the black electrical connector and remove it together with the actuator and lock assembly.
Replace the key
If your keyed deadbolt or door knob isn't working, you will have to reset it or replace it. This is not difficult and could save you money. It is best to hire an expert locksmith inspect the locks for any issues prior to starting. This will give you peace of heart that your home is safe and secure.
Remove the faceplate on the outside of the doorknob/deadbolt. If there are screws that hold the faceplate in place then use a screwdriver to remove it. Next you can use a flat-head screwdriver to take off the interior faceplate. Once you have removed the faceplate, you can remove the bolt and a screw from inside the lock cylinder.
A locksmith can determine whether you need to replace or rekey your lock. They can also give you suggestions on the most secure measures for your home. They can also make the necessary modifications to your door and frame to ensure a perfect fit. They also provide an assurance on their work.
If you choose to rekey the lock you'll need to purchase a new key for it. It is essential to use a lock key that is snugly fitted. A key that's not the right size may cause damage to the internal mechanism of the lock and stop it from functioning. Insert the key into the lock to verify its size. If it is flush with the plug, it's the correct size. If the pins stick up from the top of the plug and are not a good fit, they're too long.
You may need to change your door lock for a variety of reasons, such as:
If you're moving into an owner's residence or lose your keys, rekeying the lock is an affordable alternative than replacing it. It's also less costly than a complete replacement. However, there are www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk where rekeying your existing lock isn't an option. For instance, if your lock is damaged or repeatedly jammed, it's probably time to replace it.