When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock

Door locks are designed to keep your family and possessions safe but, over time, they can wear down or be altered. There are a few warning signs that it's time to consider replacing or rekeying your lock.

Even though replacing locks is more involved than rekeying it can be done at home. Here are some of the top reasons to consider it:

1. You're moving into a new home

The locks on your door are an essential element of your home security. When they're damaged it's possible for burglars to gain entry. You need to know the signs that it's time to replace your window.

It is a good idea in the event of moving to a new home and you want to change the locks. This will ensure that you're the only person with keys, and remove any suspicions of unauthorised entry by previous residents.

The installation of a new lock is a straightforward process. The first step is to take off the old lock. You can take out the screws that hold the handle or knob in place by using a screwdriver. Use the template that comes with the new lock to mark the location of the handle/knob, and latch. Once you've marked the positions, you can drill the face hole in accordance with the specifications of the lock.

Install the new lock after the holes have been made. It is crucial to ensure that the deadbolt and strike plate fit properly to the door frame. The bolt should extend around 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the doors and be strong enough to ensure it is secure.

A hard impact on a strike plate or lock can easily damage the hinges. If the lock is hard to operate, it could be time to replace. It's best to have the professional locksmith replace your locks for you and ensure that the job is done correctly and quickly.

There are numerous other reasons to change your locks, like ending a roommate or rental agreement. It is impossible to tell who may have duplicate keys to your key. Changing the locks is therefore a wise step. It also ensures that your family and belongings are safe.

2. You're having trouble opening the door

A broken lock can be a major issue particularly when it happens to one of your primary entry doors. However, the good news is that there are some simple steps you can take to ensure that the situation doesn't get any worse and you are able to open your door as soon as you can.

The first step is to examine your door lock to ensure that it's not just misaligned. It may be as easy as tightening a few screws if this is the problem. It is crucial to remember that if this doesn't resolve the issue then there's something wrong with the internal mechanics of the door lock.

Next, try applying an oil-based lubricant to test if this can help to remove the lock. The idea behind this is to assist the key slide more easily in and out of the lock, so that it can be opened if needed. This is generally an effective solution for the majority of people, however it is crucial to be aware that if your problem continues to persist then there may be some other issue that is causing it, and you will need to speak with an expert locksmith.

If your door lock is older than 10 years it is time to consider replacing it. Door locks are not meant to last for the lifetime of the door. Even the best quality door locks need to be replaced at some point.

In order to replace your lock, you'll need to remove the lock you have from your door. After that, it's important to determine the thickness of your door to ensure that you will be able to find a replacement lock that is suitable for your door. For instance, cylinders come in various shapes that are able to accommodate different thicknesses of doors. You may also have to replace your entire door if the frame of your door has been damaged. Our Web Page Links to an external site. will require a latch plate and strike plate to be installed into the frame. They are available separately.

3. You're worried about a break-in

A break-in can shake your faith in the security of your home. If the perpetrators left their marks (crowbar marks in the door frame) or it's clear that they've been inside (smoothed wood around the lock and a damaged lock knob), you need to restore your confidence by replacing your locks and making sure they are as secure as you can.

Even if you trusted the previous owners, it's difficult to know if anyone else has a copy. Keys are the reason why people have keys. for 67% of all illegal entry. Change your locks is an effective preventative measure.


If the knobs are stuck or are difficult to open, it is a indication that your locks require to be replaced. This is a sign that the mechanism within has been damaged by manipulation, or simply due to age-related wear. It makes it more vulnerable to being damaged.

You should consider installing a keyless lock If you're having any of these issues. They eliminate the need for keys and can be programmed to permit access only for pet-sitters or contractors. There are also door locks with a keypad, allowing you to enter the premises without touching anything.

A new lock can change the appearance of your home. It's not only about safety. Based on the design of your door, you'll choose locks that match it perfectly.

Contact an expert locksmith in your area if you are ready to change locks. They can assist you in choosing the right lock and install it swiftly. Be sure to measure the door before you call a professional locksmith. It is important to measure the thickness of your door in order to ensure that the new lock will fit correctly. If your door is larger it may require an individual lock designed to fit securely. A good starting point is placing a wood shim against the door and then putting it with the tapered edge facing the slot for the lock. Then, slide the screwdriver's tip into the slot, then turn, pulling the shim up. This will open the latches and screws that keep the knobs in position and allow them to be removed.

4. You're tired of the same old keys

Replacing the door lock is a simple upgrade that can increase the security of your home. This is a fantastic DIY project, particularly if your move frequently or you are a landlord who has to change locks on tenants. Learn the steps for replacing a door lock and you'll be able do it yourself in a few short hours.

Even if you know and trust the previous landlords or homeowners It is recommended to be safe by installing new locks. You never know who may have the keys. This includes family members, friends, contractors and babysitters. In reality those with keys to your home are responsible for a minimum of 67 percent of all illegal entry.

Before starting, make sure to buy a new lock that's compatible with your existing hardware and measurements. Depending on the design of your door, you could choose from deadbolt locks or a doorknob lock. Follow these steps to install your new lock:

Start by removing the knobs on both sides of the door. Remove the screws holding the latch plate at the edge of the front door. After removing the screws take the latchplate off and remove the two screws that secure the strike plate or deadbolt plate to the jamb.

The location of the interior handle/knob on the door using the template that came with the lock set. Make sure that the spindle (the long piece of metal that extends from the exterior knob) is able to pass through the latch and operates it smoothly. Attach the handle/knob inside using the screws supplied. Install the lock cylinder in the latch in the interior. Make sure that it is aligned correctly and that the key is working with the lock.

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