How to Do a Door Lock Change

Change of the door lock is a quick and cheap method to increase your home's security. However, this procedure isn't for all. It requires some expertise and perseverance.

You need to replace the cylinder, which 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 to replace the door lock is to get rid of the old lock. It's a straightforward process, however you must keep certain things in mind. First, ensure that the lock you choose to install is the right size for the door you have. This will ensure that it is securely fitted and won't leave a gap at the latch or deadbolt.

After removing the latch plate, you will have to look for two screws or bolts on the inside of casing that hold the casing together with the lock halves. Remove them with the help of a screwdriver, and then take the lock out of the door. If you have a mortise lock there could be a set screw at the base of the handle that holds it to the spindle. Take off the doorknobs by removing the screw using the help of a screwdriver.

Remove the deadbolt and latch plug from the door jamb. Then, you can install your new lock. If you are replacing a mortise lock you should also determine the distance between the lock case and the door's edge to ensure that the new lock will fit.

Many reasons could cause you to replace the door lock, for instance believing that someone else has the key or welcoming an incoming roommate. You can save money if you take the lock off yourself instead of paying a professional. The process is easier than many people imagine, and it can be completed in a few minutes.

Begin by removing Repair My Windows And Doors and handle from your door. With a flat screwdriver, remove the trim. You will be able to pull off the majority of it and in certain cases the handles could come off completely. Then, check the handle for a small pinhole on the interior side and insert a straightened clip into it. This will activate the release mechanism, which allows you to remove the handle. Then, look for another small tab in the interior of the lock, and press it with a flat screwdriver. After the spindle has been removed, you can remove the cylinder and housing.

Making a decision on a new locking system

There are many options to choose from when it comes time to pick the right lock. Consider different types of locks, and find one that matches your door's style. Take into consideration the backset, which is the distance between the edge and the middle of lock hole. Also, think about the cross bore, which is a small hole at the edge of your door frame. Select a lock that is suitable for the door's thickness and swing.

The majority of door locks are evaluated by BHMA and the American National Standards Institute to give you an idea of how they will withstand use and how difficult to disable or pick. A lock of grade 3 could be the ideal choice for a tranquil apartment building in the country, while locks of grade 1 might be more appropriate for the busy streets near the storefront.

Most smart door locks require digital code to open. If you are worried about hacking, or any other security concerns, consult an expert locksmith.

Replacing the cylinder

You can easily replace damaged or broken doors lock cylinder using a simple DIY project. The trick is to select the right cylinder and follow the instructions that come with it. First, take off the handle or knob if it is present. Then, using a screwdriver, take off the trim around the lock cylinder. Once the trim has been removed, you can access the screws that hold the cylinder in place and remove them with the flat-head screwdriver. The cylinder is then gently pulled away from the door.

Before you install the new cylinder, make sure that it is the correct length for the door you are using. With an instrument, measure the distance between the cylinder's center and its left and right side. Then, you can purchase another cylinder that has the same measurements. This will stop cylinders from snapping when doors are hit or the key is stuck inside.

Place the replacement cylinder inside the door and then turn the key. This will align the cylinder with the carrier which is typically on the outside of your lock. Then, you can loosen the set screw, which should be a couple of turns in the head. It is also necessary to loosen the screw at the door's edge which secures the case should there be one.

After removing the lock cylinder, you can replace it with a new lock by sliding the new cylinder into the case and tightening the set screw. You must also install the bracket that connects the cylinder with the stem of the lock indicator, which you can do by pulling up three tabs on the back of the cylinder with needle-nose pliers. Then, you can attach the smaller bracket to the back of the cylinder. Then, you should reinstall the latch plate and strike plate, as well as the retaining rings that are attached to the top of the lock the cylinder.

Installing a new lock

Start by measuring the door's width if you are replacing a lock that is already in use. Most residential locksets come with a thickness of 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches. If your door is more thick, you will need an extra-thick door kit that includes longer screws, an extended tail piece (for door knobs) or spindle extension (for deadbolts).

Most locks come with a comprehensive instruction booklet that will help you install the new hardware. Before you begin, read the instructions to make sure you've followed all the steps. The guide will give you an idea of how much skill is required to finish the task. It is possible to seek out a friend who has had experience in changing locks for assistance if you are changing a lock the first time.

Before installing the new lock it's a good idea to tape over the openings of the old hardware. This will prevent the screws from slipping through the holes and will also protect any tiles you may have put in. This will also protect your tiles from any damage caused by dirt, rust and grime. SECURAM Touch comes with a strip of painter's tape, which is designed to be used to protect your painter's tape, but you can also use gaffer's tape or masking tape if you have it available.


After removing the screws that hold the lock's interior to the outside then take the lock off immediately. It's important to do this swiftly so that the lock doesn't end up closing itself in a way that could end up damaging the mechanism.

If your new lock has a latch bolt, fit the new bolt into its upper cross bore. Make sure you put it in the right location, which is indicated by an arrow. Then, slide the latch plate onto the bolt and secure it in the correct position.

Finally, screw in the deadbolt and strike plate into the door jamb. Test the deadbolt a few times by throwing it to see if it extends into the strike plate. If you're using an electronic smart lock, be sure to follow the instructions to program it. This involves downloading an app and registering your email address, confirming your identity, and connecting to the wireless network in order to add your device.