When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock

Door locks are designed to keep your belongings and family members secure however, over time they'll wear down or be tampered with. There are some telltale signs it's time to change or rekey your lock.

Even though lock replacement is more complex than rekeying it can be accomplished at home. Here are a few most compelling reasons to consider it:

1. You're moving into a new home

The locks on your door are a vital part of your home security. When they're damaged it's easy for burglars to gain entry. You must be aware of the indicators that indicate when it's time to replace your window.

It is a good idea if you are moving into a new residence, to change the locks. This will ensure that you are the only one with keys, and remove any suspicions of unauthorised entry by previous residents.

The installation of a new lock is a simple process. First, you'll need take off the lock you have already installed. This can be accomplished by using a screwdriver in order to remove the screws that hold the knob or handle in place. Use the template included with the new lock to mark the locations of the handle/knob, and latch. After you have identified the positions, you are able to drill the hole for the face according to the specifications of the lock.

After drilling the holes and the lock is installed, you must install the new lock. It is essential to ensure that the deadbolt as well as the strike plate fit well with the door frame. The bolt should extend about 1/2 inch past the edge of the door and should be strong enough to secure the door.

It's also an excellent idea to get the hinges replaced, as they can be damaged by a hard impact on the lock or strike plate. Finally, if the lock is difficult to operate, it could be a sign that it's time for an upgrade. It is best to let a professional locksmith change the locks on your behalf. This will ensure that the task gets done quickly and correctly.

You may also want to change your locks if you've terminated a lease or roommate agreement. It is impossible to tell who may have duplicate keys to your key. Changing the locks is therefore a prudent precaution. It also ensures that your belongings and family are secure.


2. You are having difficulty opening the door

A broken lock can be a nightmare particularly when it happens to one of your primary entry doors. But the good thing is that there are some simple steps you can take to ensure that it doesn't get any worse and you can get access to your door again as soon as possible.

The first step is to check the door lock and ensure that it's not misaligned. It may be as easy as tightening some screws in the event that this is the issue. It is crucial to remember, though, that if this does not resolve the issue it is likely that there is something wrong with the internal mechanics that operate your door lock.

Next, try using a lubricant to test if this can help to unstick the lock. This is done to make keys slide into and out of the locks more easily, making it possible for them to be opened. This is a good solution for most people. However in the event that the issue persists it is possible to consult an expert locksmith.

If your door lock is more than 10 years old it is recommended to replace it. This is because door locks are not designed to last the entire lifetime of a door, and even the most durable door locks will typically require replacement at some point.

To change your lock, you must take off the lock that you currently have. After removing the existing lock, you'll need measure the thickness of your door to ensure that a replacement will be suitable. For example the cylinder locks are available in a variety of shapes to fit various door thicknesses. It is also important to note that if your door frame has been damaged in any way, you will need to replace the entire door. The new lock will require an latch plate and strike plate to be installed inside the frame. They are sold separately.

3. You're worried that there will be a break-in

The possibility of a burglary can shake your faith in the security of your home. If the perpetrators left their marks on the door frame (crowbar marks) or it is clear that they are inside (smoothed out the wood around the lock, broken lock knob) Then you must replace your locks to ensure they are as safe and secure as they can be.

Even if you trust the previous owners, there is no way to tell who else might have received a copy of the key. Keys are the reason why people have keys. for a minimum of 67% of illicit entry. Change your locks is a good preventative measure.

Another indicator that you should replace your locks is if the knobs appear to be stuck or difficult to open. This indicates that the mechanism within the lock has been damaged by tampering or just age-related wear and tear, leaving the lock vulnerable to failure and damage.

If you're having issues with any of these, consider installing a keyless lock instead. They eliminate the need for keys, and can be programmed with one-time entry codes for contractors or pet sitters who require access. There are also doors that have keys that allow you to enter the premises without touching anything.

Getting a new lock isn't just about safety and security it could also be a means to improve the appearance of your home. Based on the design of your door, you can find locks that will complement it perfectly.

If basildon upvc door locks replacement looking to change locks contact a local locksmith. They can help you choose the appropriate lock and install it quickly. Be sure to measure the door before you call a professional locksmith. The thickness of the door is crucial to ensure that the lock you choose fits correctly. If your door is more thick then you might require an individual lock designed to fit securely. A good way to begin is by placing a wood shim directly against the door, and positioned with the tapered edge facing the slot for the lock. Place the tip of a screwdriver into the slot and then twist and pull the shim upwards. This will let the latch open and the screws holding the knobs in place, allowing you to remove them.

4. You're tired of the same old keys

It is easy to upgrade your door lock and increase the security of your home. This is an excellent DIY option, especially when you move frequently or you are a landlord that has to change locks on tenants. Learn the steps for replacing locks on doors and you'll be able complete the task yourself in just a few short hours.

Even even if you are familiar with and trust the previous landlords or homeowners it is recommended to be safe by installing new locks. After all, you never know how many people may have a copy of the old keys which includes relatives, friends contractors, babysitters, and even contractors. In fact the people who have keys to your home are responsible for a minimum of 67% of all unlawful entries.

Be sure to purchase a replacement lock compatible with the existing hardware and dimensions. Based on the style of your door, you can select deadbolt locks or doorknob lock. Once you've received your new lock then follow these steps to install it:

Start by removing the old knobs on both sides of the door. Remove the screws holding the latch plate at the edge of the front door. After that remove the latch plate, as well as the two screws that hold the strike plate or deadbolt plate into 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 face of the door. The spindle (the metal piece that protrudes from the knob's exterior) must pass through the latch smoothly. Then, attach the knob or handle to the inside using the screws provided and insert the lock cylinder into the latch, ensuring that it is properly aligned and works with the key.

Finish by attaching the strike plates and deadbolt plate using the screws included with your new lock set to secure them into their place. Once you've finished the process, test your new lock to ensure that it functions properly and the interior knob is able to slide smoothly over the pins. After that, put everything back in reverse order and you're good to go!