Reasons to Change Door Lock
You can alter your door lock for a variety of reasons, from improving the security of your home to re-decorating the entryway. It is also possible to change locks if the key gets stuck or is difficult to turn.
Changing your lock is an easy project that even beginner DIY homeowners can take on. Find the necessary materials to begin.
Remove the old lock
The removal of the lock that was previously installed from the door is a necessary step before installing the new lock. This is important when you suspect that someone else may have a key to the home. It's also a good idea after you've moved into a brand new home, experienced a burglary or welcomed a roommate. The process is simpler than you imagine and can be completed in just a few minutes.
Begin by getting rid of the screws that attach the deadbolt faceplate to the door frame. To remove the faceplate, you will have to remove screws from both sides. This will let you see the inside of the door and give you a better understanding of how to proceed with the rest of steps.
Once you have removed the old faceplate, then you have to take off the bolt and strike plate. Use a screwdriver to loosen the bolt, and then remove it from the hole in the door. If the bolt is rusty, you might need to use a chisel hammer it out. When using a chisel to remove the bolt, make sure to not damage the door frame.
Make sure that the new deadbolt, doorknob, and lock will fit into the holes already in the door before you remove the old one. Most hardware stores and big box stores offer several different types of locks and will assist you in finding the best one to meet your needs. Get help if the lock you purchased doesn't fit your door.
When you're removing the old lock, look for small depressions or notches in the handle or around the trim. If you can locate them, use straightened safety pins or a flat screwdriver in order to remove the handle.
After removing the screw from the handle, you are able to begin to remove the knob. To do this, locate the set screw that is located on the knob's base and loosen it. Then, you'll need to remove the knob from the spindle. Finally, carefully remove the spindle from the door.
Install the new lock
It's a good idea to change the locks on your doors periodically particularly if you've had a break-in. Changing the lock is an affordable, simple and efficient way to ensure that your home is secure. With a screwdriver, and a few basic steps most people can do it themselves. Depending on your situation, you may also be interested in learning how to rekey a door lock so that only you have the key.
To begin the process, you must purchase an additional lock that matches your existing lock's keyway. You will save money if you modify the lock yourself. Many locksmiths charge an extra fee to do this. You can purchase a new lock from a hardware store or on the internet. Standard deadbolts are suitable for most doors. However, you will have to measure the door to make sure it will fit.
Most of the time, your new lock will come with a cardboard template that shows how it will fit on the door. You can use this to guide you for drilling the hole, which is much easier than measuring each time. If the template doesn't match to your hole then you should return it to the hardware store and purchase another one.
When you install the new lock, you must be sure to place it on the right side of the door. Verify the latch. It should be marked with "up" or something similar. Make sure that the latch is correctly seated on the plate and attach it using the supplied screws.
If you are replacing a door knob lock It's important to pay attention to the type of lock you're using. Most knob locks are left-handed however, there are some that are right-handed. If repair window locks RepairMyWindowsAndDoors are not careful, the lock could be placed on the wrong side of your door, which will prevent it from being locked either from the inside or outside.
You should test the new lock once you finish. You should be able both to lock and unlock the door using a key from the inside as well as from the outside. If you aren't satisfied with the outcome, you can call a locksmith to repair the issue.
Test the lock
If a lock on your door won't unlock can be frustrating but it could also put your family's safety at risk. It's easy to fix the majority of problems with door locks by conducting some troubleshooting and lubrication. To start with, check that your key is properly cut and that the lock assembly isn't soiled or loose. If this doesn't fix the problem, you can try applying lubrication to the door lock actuator using powdered graphite or a silicone-based oil.
Check that the door lock switch, wiring harnesses and actuator connector are all working properly. Check the wiring diagram or manual to determine the color code and function of the wires for each door lock switch. Use a digital meter or test light to determine if the actuator is receiving power and is grounded when the switches are turned on. If you see voltage toggles with each switch this means that the switches are in good condition and the actuator will need replacing.
If the switch seems to work however the actuator does not move when you turn the knob, it could be a problem with the cylinder itself. The actuator cylinder is outfitted with pins that are spring-loaded. They prevent the cylinder from turning until the key is put in, and then they push them upwards to the same height as the key in that area. This causes the cylinder eventually to turn opening the lock body and opening the latch to open for the handle.
If the door lock actuator is still malfunctioning, you can take the switch and wires from the actuator using small screwdrivers to unlock the bolt that locks and then separate the plastic cover that holds the electrical connector. Then, disconnect the door lock actuator and let it fall. Then, you should be able find and take off the two bolts of 10mm which hold the actuator in place. After the actuator has been removed then you can disconnect the black electrical connector.
Replace the key
Whether you have an unkeyed deadbolt or door knob if it is not functioning properly, you must either change the lock's key or rekey it or replace it completely. It is not difficult to do this yourself and can save lots of money. It is best to hire a professional locksmith check the locks for any issues before you start. This will give peace of peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.
Take off the exterior faceplate of the doorknob/deadbolt. If there are screws holding the faceplate, use a screwdriver and remove it. Then, remove the interior faceplate using a flat-head screwdriver. After you have removed the faceplate, you can remove the screw and bolt from the lock cylinder.
A locksmith can tell you whether you need to replace or rekey your lock. They can also offer guidance on the most effective security measures for your home. They can also make any necessary adjustments to the door or frame to ensure that it is a perfect fit. They will also offer a warranty on their work.
If you decide to rekey your lock, you'll need to purchase a new key for it. It is essential to select the right key within the lock. A key that is not the right size can damage the internal mechanism of a lock and prevent it from functioning. Insert the key into the lock to test its size. If it is flush with the plug, it's the right size. If the pins extend out of the top of the plug, they're not long.
You may want to replace your door lock for a variety of reasons, such as:
If you're moving into a former homeowner's house or have lost your keys, rekeying the lock is an economical alternative than replacing it. It's also less expensive than a complete replacement. However, there are some instances where rekeying an existing lock isn't possible. For instance, if your lock is damaged or has been repeatedly jammed, it's probably the time to replace it.