How to Do a Door Lock Change

Door lock replacement is a quick and cheap way to improve your home security. This process isn't for all. It requires a certain amount patience and skill.

It is necessary to replace the cylinder that is inside the knob's body. The cylinder recognizes the key once it's put into the lock.

Removing the old lock

The first step to replace the door lock is to remove the lock that was previously in use. It's a simple process, but you should keep certain things in mind. Make window lock repairs that the new lock fits the door. This will ensure that it fits properly and doesn't leave a gap in the latch or deadbolt plug.

After you have removed the latch plate, you'll need to look for two bolts or screws in the casing's interior which are holding the casing to the two halves of the lock. Remove these screws using a screwdriver before removing the lock out of the door. If you have a mortise locking mechanism, there is a set screw that binds the handle to the spindle. Use a screwdriver to remove this screw, then remove the doorknobs.

Remove the deadbolt and latch plug from your door jamb. Install your new lock. If you are replacing a mortise lock, you should also measure the distance between the lock case and the edge of your door to ensure that the new lock will fit.

Many reasons could cause you to change your door lock, such as being concerned that someone else may have the key or if you're welcoming an incoming roommate. You can save money if you remove the lock yourself instead of paying an expert. It's easier than most people think, and it can be completed in a few minutes.

Remove the trim and handle of your door. With a flat screwdriver pry off the trim. You should be able to twist off the majority of it, and in some instances the handles may fall off entirely. Then, look for a small pinhole on the inside and insert a straightened clip into it. This will trigger the release mechanism and allow you to remove the handle from the door. Then, look for another small tab in the interior of the lock and press it using a flat screwdriver. Once the spindle is removed, you can take off the housing and the cylinder.

Selecting a new locking system

When it comes to selecting a new lock, you have many choices. Take a look at the various types of locks and choose one that fits the design of your door. Consider the backset which is the distance between the edge and the center of the hole for the lock. Also, think about the cross bore, which is a small hole in the middle of your door's frame. Also, ensure that you select a lock that is able to accommodate the door's thickness as well as swing.

The majority of door locks are graded by BHMA and the American National Standards Institute to give you an idea of how they stand up to use and how difficult to disable or pick. A grade 3 lock might be ideal for a quiet suburban apartment complex, whereas the grade 1 lock may hold up better to the traffic that is frequented by a store front on a city street.

Most smart door locks require a digital code to open. If you're concerned about hacking or other security concerns, consult with a professional locksmith or your local police department for advice.

Replacing the cylinder

If the cylinder of your door lock is damaged or broken it can be replaced in a matter of minutes with a simple do-it-yourself project. It is important to select the appropriate cylinder and follow all instructions. The first step is to take off the handle or knob if there is one then loosen the trim around the base of the lock cylinder with a screwdriver. Once the trim has been removed, you can take off the screws holding the cylinder in position with a flathead. The cylinder is then gently pulled out of the door.

Before installing the new cylinder, be sure that it's the correct length for the door you are using. Measure the distance from the center to the right and left sides of the cylinder using a tape measure. Purchase a new cylinder that has the same measurements. This will help prevent cylinder snapping, which can happen when the door is kicked out or when the key is stuck inside.

If you have a replacement cylinder, put it into the door and turn the key. This will ensure that the cylinder is aligned with the carrier, which is typically located on the outside of the lock. After that, you can loosen the set screw that should be just a couple of turns in the head. You will also need to loosen the screw on the door's edge that holds the case in place, in the event that there is one.

After removing the lock cylinder after which you can replace it with a new lock by slipping the new cylinder into the case and tightening the set screw. You should also reinstall the piece that connects the cylinder with the stem of the lock indicator that you can do by pulling out three small tabs on back of the cylinder with needle-nose pliers. Then, you can connect the remaining smaller bracket to the back of the cylinder. Then, you should put back in the strike plate and latch plate as well as the retaining ring attached to the top of the lock the cylinder.


Installing a new lock

Start by measuring the door's width if are replacing an existing lock. Most residential locksets are designed for doors with a thickness of 1 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches. If your door is more thick you will require an extra-thick door kit that includes longer screws and longer tail pieces (for door knobs) or spindle extension (for deadbolts).

The majority of locks come with a detailed instruction manual to assist you in installing the new hardware. Before beginning, you must read the instructions to make sure you've followed all the steps. The booklet will also provide you with an idea of the level of expertise required to complete the task. You might want to ask a friend who has worked with locks for assistance if you are changing locks for the first time.

It's a good idea to cover the holes in the old hardware prior to installing the new lock. This will stop screws from slipping through the holes, and protect any tiles you may have put in. It will also protect your tiles from any damage caused by rust, dirt and grime. SECURAM Touch comes with a strip painter's tape that is intended to be used to protect your painter's tape, but you can also use gaffer's tape or masking tape in the event that you have it.

After you have removed the screws holding the inside of the lock section to the outside side immediately, pull it back. It is important to do this quickly to avoid the lock from closing accidentally and damaging the mechanism.

If your new lock is equipped with an latch bolt, install the new bolt into its upper cross bore. Make sure to place it in the proper position, which will be indicated by an arrow. Next, fit the latch plate on top of the bolt and secure it in place.

Screw the deadbolt to 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, make sure to follow the instructions for programming it. This requires downloading an application, registering your e-mail address, verifying your identity and connecting to the wireless network in order to add your device.