When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock

Door locks are designed to ensure that your family and possessions are secure. However, they can become worn out or tampered with over time. There are some telltale indications that it's time for you to consider replacing or rekeying the lock.

While lock replacement is a more complex process than rekeying, it can be done at home. Here are a few of the top reasons to consider it:

1. You're moving to a brand new house

Your door locks are an important aspect of the security of your home. If they're damaged or broken it's easy for burglars to gain access. It is important to recognize the indicators that indicate when it's time to replace your window.

If you are moving into a new residence It's a good idea to have the locks changed. This will ensure that you are the sole owner of keys and eliminate any suspicion that previous residents might have entered your house without permission.

Installing an entirely new lock is an easy procedure. First, you'll need remove the lock that you currently have. You can take out the screws that hold the handle or knob in place using the screwdriver. Next, make use of a template supplied by the new lock set to mark the positions of the handle/knob and latch. Once you've marked the locations, drill the face hole to match the specifications of your lock.

Once the holes are drilled and the lock is installed, you must install the new lock. It is essential that the deadbolt, strike plates and door frame are all aligned. The bolt should extend about 1/2 inch past the edge of the door and should be strong enough to secure the door.

upvc door locking mechanism replacement www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk to a strike plate or lock can cause damage to the hinges. If the lock is difficult to operate, it might be time to replace. It is recommended to have a professional locksmith change the locks for you. This will ensure that the work is completed quickly and efficiently.

There are many other reasons to change your locks, like ending a lease or roommate agreement. It is impossible to know who might have duplicate keys to your key. Changing the locks is therefore a prudent precaution. It will also ensure that your belongings and family are secure.

2. You're having trouble opening the door

A broken lock can be an absolute nightmare. Particularly when it happens at the entrance to your home. There are a few steps you can follow to prevent the problem from getting worse and to be capable of opening the door as quickly as you are able to.

The first step is to examine the door lock to ensure that it's not misaligned. If this is the case, it may be as simple as tightening a few of the screws. If this doesn't solve the issue, it could be an issue with the internal mechanisms of your door lock.

Then, apply the lubricant and see if it helps to unstick the locking mechanism. The idea behind this is to allow the key slide more easily in and out of the lock, so that it can be opened when necessary. This is a common solution for most people, however it is crucial to be aware that if your issue persists, then there may be some other issue that is causing it and you'll have to speak with locksmith.

If your door lock is more than a decade is it the time to get a new one. Door locks are not meant to last the life of the door. Even the best quality door locks have to be replaced at some point.


To replace your lock, you'll have to remove the lock you have from your door. After you have removed the lock, you'll need measure your door thickness to ensure that the replacement will fit. For instance, cylinders come in different shapes that can accommodate a variety of door thicknesses. It is also important to remember that if your door frame is damaged in any way, you'll need to replace the entire door. The new lock will require the strike plate and latch plate to be fitted into the frame. They are available separately.

3. You're worried that there will be an attack

A burglary could make you think twice about the security of your house. If the culprits have left marks on your door frame (crowbar marks) or it is obvious that they are inside (smoothed out the wood around your lock knob, broken lock) Then you must replace your locks to ensure they are as secure and safe as you can.

Even if you trusted the previous owners, it's difficult to determine if someone else has copies. 6-7% of unlawful entry is committed by people who have keys and therefore changing locks is an effective preventative measure.

Another indication that you need to replace your locks is if the knobs appear to be squeezing or are difficult to open. This is a sign that the mechanism within the lock is damaged due to the tampering of your locks or simply wear and tear, which makes it susceptible to damage and eventual failure.

You should consider installing a keyless lock if you are experiencing any of these problems. These eliminate the need for keys and can be programmed with one-time access codes for contractors and pet sitters who need access. You can also buy door locks that have keypads. This lets you enter the house without touching anything.

A new lock can be used to update the look of your home. It's not just about security. Depending on the design of your door, you can choose locks that match it perfectly.

If you're ready to make the switch consult a local locksmith. They can assist you in selecting the right lock and install it swiftly. Before you contact a locksmith, be certain to measure your door. The thickness of the door is essential to ensuring the lock you choose fits correctly. If your door is thicker, you may need a lock that's custom-made to fit snugly. A good starting point is placing a wood shim against the door, and positioned with the tapered edge facing the slot for the lock. Then, slide the screwdriver's tip into slot and turn, pulling up the shim. This will open the latch and the screws holding the knobs in place and allow you to remove them.

4. You're tired of the same old keys

Replacing your door lock is an easy upgrade that can increase the security of your home. This is an excellent DIY option, especially in the event that you frequently move or you are a landlord who has to change locks on tenants. You can replace a door lock in a matter of hours when you know the steps.

Installing new locks is a good idea in the case that you trust and know the previous tenants or homeowners. You never know who might have the keys. This includes family members, friends and contractors as well as babysitters. In reality the people who have access to your house are responsible for a minimum of 67 percent of all illegal entries.

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

Start by removing the knobs on both sides of the door. Then, take out the screws that hold the latch plate to the door's edge. After removing the screws, remove the latchplate and the two screws that hold the strike plate or deadbolt plate to the door jamb.

Using the template that comes with the lock set, mark the locations of the knob/handle inside and the latch on the front of the door. The spindle (the metal piece that protrudes from the knob's exterior) should slide through the latch with ease. Attach the handle/knob to the interior using the provided screws. Place the lock cylinder in the latch in the interior. Make sure that it is aligned correctly and that the key works with the lock.

Attach the strike plates and deadbolt plates with the screws that are included in the set of replacement locks. Test your new lock once you're done to confirm that it's working as intended and that the knob inside can slide smoothly over the pins. Then, put everything back together in reverse order.