Door Lock Replacement - What You Need to Know
It's a good idea you to change your locks when they start to show signs that they are worn out. This could be due to things like difficulty turning the lock or finding a key that doesn't fit.
It is easy to install new door hardware. It is all you need to do is follow these simple steps.
Deadbolt
The deadbolt on your door is the primary defense against forced entry. It is stronger and more secure than the latch that activates the lock. Therefore, you'll be sure that the deadbolt you choose to purchase is compatible with your needs. If you can, choose deadbolts made of case hardened steel and has no exposed screw heads on the outside to prevent unauthorized drilling. The inside of the deadbolt should also be inserted into the door frame to increase security.
During the process of installation Make sure that the new deadbolt's bolt slides smoothly into the strike plate when you close and lock the door. If it does not use a wood chisel to mortise the bolt hole in the strike plate and install the deadbolt. Make sure the latch on the doorknob is in contact with the hole for the deadbolt when you shut and lock the door, too.
Before installing the new deadbolt, ensure that it is the same size of the old one. The majority of door locks come with a template that shows you how high above the doorknob the bolt should be. However, it is always recommended to speak with an expert at a hardware store if you're not sure which backset measurement is appropriate for your doors. They can guide you to models that are compatible with your doors and existing deadbolt opening.
Install the bolt assembly into the door hole after ensuring that it is the right length. Screw the latch faceplate in place if your new deadbolt has one. It is a good idea to attach the latch faceplate to the frame using the screws recommended by experts, as well.
Certain lock sets come with some lock sets have a "dummy" or decorative bolt that allows you to install the keyed deadbolt and still have a functional latch. If upvc door locks replacement to use this feature, a dummy bolt should be installed with the same screws as the faceplate of the latch and it is essential that the two fit together correctly to ensure maximum security.
Some deadbolts have only a single cylinder accessible from the inside with a thumb-turn, while others come with a double cylinder that permits both keyed and non-keyed access. It is best to select a lock that is commercial grade to ensure the highest security. They've been tested to withstand 250,000 cycles of closing and opening before they are sold to homeowners.
Latch
The latch is the component of the lock that retracts the bolt to open and close the door. It's usually held in place by screws on the side of the lock, however it could also be fixed to the strike plate or the inside of the door jamb. When replacing a door lock it is essential to ensure that you purchase the right one that is compatible with the hardware you have. You can either hold the latch against the hardware you have already installed or examine the label on a new. Dunn Lumber offers a wide range of brands. However, it's recommended to select the same brand that matches your current hardware. This will ensure that the latch you purchase will fit perfectly.
Some doors have a hasp instead of a latch. A hasp is a piece of strap that has a slot in it to be able to be inserted over staples. The staple is then nailed to the door frame or door using nails. When the door is shut the strap pulls the staple down and secures it in the frame. Commercial buildings use a hasp since it is cheaper than a lock.
Locks can wear out over time like any other mechanism with moving parts. Sometimes the internal mechanism will start to "stick" and become difficult to turn, making it necessary to replace the entire lockset. Sometimes, the doorknob on the outside will break and it is necessary to replace it too.
If your lock is stuck, you can apply some graphite to the keyhole. You can either squirt some on the key or sprinkle it on the inside of the lock. Then use the lock a few times to work the graphite into the mechanism. You can also employ a screwdriver for the removal of the knob, which will reveal the internal components and let you observe what's happening inside.
After you've removed the knobs, look for the cylinder with two or three setscrews along the edge of the cylinder. Tighten the screws by turning counterclockwise. It is also recommended to remove the faceplate and replace it. Surface-mounted rim locks have an additional set of cylinder setscrews located on the back of the case that must be removed, as well as the cover plate.
Strike Plate
The strike plate, which is connected to the door frame, above the holes that house the master key bolt or deadbolt bolt system, strengthens and upgrades the locking mechanism. It wards off intruders by ensuring the latch of the lock is held in the plate when the bolt is engaged. A top-quality strikeplate can enhance the longevity of locks and enhance security.
Standard strike plates are flat plates made of metal with a hole, or a series of holes, cut into them. It is anchored, typically using screws, to the frame of a doorway to give the latch a place to sink into when it is closed. The strike plate has to be precisely aligned with the lockset in order to give maximum security against burglaries.
If the strike plate on the door is damaged you should replace it as soon as you can. This will ensure that your door can close and latch properly. The first step in replacing a strike plate is to ensure that it is aligned correctly with the bolt hole inside the doorjamb. This can be done easily by placing a piece of adhesive tape over the bolt hole and then attempting to test the latch. If the latch does not catch it, take the tape off. Then, chisel the hole to create a level with the doorjamb.
After the area is chiseled out it is essential to use a longer screw to secure the strike plate. They should be at least 3 inches in length to ensure they are securely anchored into a stud which is behind the trim board. If you don't use the longer screws, the doorjamb's wooden frame could split during a kicking attack by an burglar, leaving the door vulnerable.
A professional locksmith is able to quickly replace a strike plate that's been damaged or worn. They can also install an entirely new strike plate on doors that have never had one before. They can also upgrade existing strikeplates to increase the security of the building and its appearance. This can assist property owners in attracting tenants who want a secure living space and peace of mind.
Keys
The key cylinder is the component of your lock that accepts a particular key to shift pins into place so that the inner handle can be turned. The cylinder is also the most crucial component of your door lock since it fulfills the purpose that locks were made to protect your family, you and your belongings. Rekeying locks is a cost-effective option than replacing them.
It is more difficult to change locks than to swap out the existing handle and deadbolt. The old cylinder, hardware and handle (if you have a knob and lock combination) must be removed from the door before the new lock is installed. Although there are a variety of DIY-friendly kits available that can be used to change a lock yourself, it is recommended that you speak with a professional locksmith to ensure that the job is done correctly.
Before you install a new cylinder and lock it is crucial to have the right key for your home. A duplicate key won't function properly and may even cause the lock to fail and make it impossible for you to open. A trained professional can help you avoid this by making sure you have a real, working key for your home.
The next step is to remove the faceplate and then the latch plate. To take off the screws that hold them in place, you will require the help of a screwdriver. It is possible to leave them in place if new plates are similar to the original ones. This will save you time. If you need to replace them, be careful not to overtighten screws, as this can weaken their grip.
After taking off the plates, you'll need to measure to determine the proper size of the lock. While most modern locksets can be able to fit a standard width of door, it's best to know the dimensions of your door in advance to avoid frustration when you go to the hardware store. Doorknob locksets can be different sizes from deadbolt locks, commercial models might have a bigger latch or bolt.