The 10 Worst Door Lock Change Mistakes Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
How to Do a Door Lock Change Changing your door lock is an easy and inexpensive way to increase the security of your home. The process is not for everyone. It requires a certain amount patience and skill. You must replace the cylinder that is located inside the knob's body. The cylinder is responsible for recognizing the key as it is inserted into the lock. Take off the lock that was previously used. The first step in replacing a door lock is to remove the old lock. This is a relatively easy process, however there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that your new lock is the correct size for the door you have. This will ensure that it fits securely and doesn't leave a gap around the latch or deadbolt plug. After removing the latch plate, you will have to look for two bolts or screws in the casing's interior that are holding the casing together with the two halves of the lock. Remove them with a screwdriver and then remove the lock from the door. If you are using a mortise locking system, there is a set screw that holds the handle to the spindle. Remove the doorknobs by unscrewing this screw with a screwdriver. Remove the deadbolt and latch plug from the door jamb. Install your new lock. If you're replacing a mortise you should measure the distance between the lock case and your door's edge to ensure that the new lock will fit. You may want to replace your lock for a variety reasons, for instance, the possibility that someone else holds the key or you've an incoming roommate. In any event, you could save money by taking the lock off yourself rather than paying an expert to do it. The process is easier than many people imagine and can be done in a few minutes. Begin by removing the trim and handle from your door. With a flat screwdriver, take off the trim. It should be possible to pull off the majority of it. In some instances, you may even be able remove the handles completely. Then, look for a tiny pinhole on the interior side and insert a straightened paper clip into it. This will activate the release mechanism, allowing you to take off the handle. Look for a small tab on the interior of the lock and push it using a flat screwdriver. Once the spindle is removed, you can remove the cylinder and housing. The choice of a new locking system When it comes time to pick a new lock you have a variety of choices. Consider the different types of locks and select one that fits the style of your door. Consider the backset (the distance between the door's edge and the center of the lock hole) and the cross bore (small hole along the edge of the door frame). Choose a lock that fits the door's thickness and the swing. The American National Standards Institute and BHMA have graded all door locks to give an idea of their durability and how difficult it is to pick them or disable them. A grade 3 lock may be perfect for a quiet apartment complex in a rural area, whereas locks that are grade 1 could be more appropriate for a busy street near a storefront. Most smart door locks require a digital code to open. If you're worried about hacking, or any other security concerns, speak to an expert locksmith. Replace the cylinder If your door lock cylinder is broken or damaged you can repair it in just a few minutes using a simple DIY project. The key is to select the correct cylinder and follow the steps that come with it. First, take off the knob or handle if it is present. Then with a screwdriver take off the trim around the lock cylinder. After the trim is removed, you can access the screws that secure the cylinder and remove them with the flat-head screwdriver. The cylinder is then gently pulled out of the door. Before you install the new cylinder, make sure that it's the correct length for your door. With a tape measure, determine the distance between the cylinder's center and the left and right sides. Buy a new cylinder that has the same measurements. This will prevent the cylinder from snapping, which could happen when the door is kicked out or when the key is stuck inside. Place the replacement cylinder inside the door, and then turn the key. This will ensure that the cylinder is in alignment with the carrier, which is normally located on the outside of the lock. Then, loosen the set screw that is supposed to be a couple of turns in the head. It is also necessary to loosen the screw at the edge of the door that holds the case in place, in the event that there is one. You can replace the old lock cylinder with a new one by slipping it into the case, and tightening the set screws. It is also recommended to reinstall the part that connects the cylinder with the stem of the lock indicator that you can do by pulling up three tabs on the back of the cylinder using needle-nose pliers. Then, you'll be able to attach the second bracket to the back of the cylinder. Then, you should reinstall the strike plate and latch plate, along with the retaining rings attached to the top of the lock the cylinder. Installing a new lock Begin by measuring the door's width if you are replacing an existing lock. The majority of residential locksets are designed to fit a door thickness of 1 3/8 to ¾ inches. If your door is thicker than 1 3/8 to 1 ¾ inches, you'll need a stronger door kit. This would include longer screws, or a longer spindle extension or the tail piece for door knobs. Most locks come equipped with a thorough installation guide to aid you. Be sure to read the instructions thoroughly before starting the process to make sure that you are following all of the necessary steps. replacing window locks will also give you an idea of the level of expertise required to perform the task. You may want to ask a person who has had experience in changing locks for assistance if you are changing locks for the first time. Before installing the new lock, it's a good idea to cover the holes with tape the old hardware. This will stop the screws from slipping through the holes, and protect any tiles you might have put in. This will also protect your tiles from damage caused by rust, dirt and grime. SECURAM Touch includes a strip of masking or gaffer tape, however you can use any tape you have. Once you've removed the screws holding the inside of the lock section to the exterior side immediately, pull it back. It is important to do this quickly so that the lock doesn't end up accidentally closing on itself and damaging the mechanism. If your new lock is equipped with an latch bolt, install the new latch bolt into its upper cross bore. Make sure that you put it in the right position that is usually indicated by an indication on the faceplate. Next, fit the latch plate onto the bolt and screw it in place. Finally, screw in the deadbolt and strike plate to the door jamb. Test the deadbolt by throwing it a few times to verify that it is extended all the way into the strike plate and is completely secured. Follow the instructions included in your electronic smart lock to program it. This requires downloading an app and entering your email address, verifying your identity, and accessing the wireless network to connect your device.