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When It's Time For a Replacement Door Lock

Door locks keep your belongings and family members safe, but over time they can wear down or be tampered with. There are a few warning signs that it's time to think about changing or rekeying your lock.

Even though replacing locks is more complex than rekeying it can be done at home. Here are a few of the most compelling reasons to consider it:

1. You're moving into your new home

Your door locks are an essential part of your home security. It's easy for burglars to gain access to locks that are damaged. This is the reason you need to know when it's the right time to purchase an upgrade.

If you're moving into a new home, then it is 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 owners may have entered your home without your permission.

Installing a new lock is a straightforward process. First, you'll need to remove the lock that you currently have. You can take out the screws that hold the handle or knob in place with a screwdriver. Utilize the template supplied with the new lock to mark the position of the handle/knob, and latch. Once you have marked the positions, you are able to drill the face hole according to the lock specifications.

After drilling the holes, you will need to install the new lock. It is important to make sure that the deadbolt and strike plate fit properly with the existing door frame. The bolt should extend about 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the door and be strong enough to secure it.

It's also recommended to have the hinges replaced, as they can be damaged by a strong hit on the lock or strike plate. Finally, if the lock is difficult to operate, then it could be a sign that it's time to get an upgrade. It's best to have the professional locksmith replace your locks for you to ensure that the job will be done efficiently and swiftly.

There are numerous other reasons to change your locks, for instance ending a lease or roommate agreement. It is impossible to tell who might have duplicate keys to your key. The need to change the locks is therefore a prudent precaution. It also ensures that your family and belongings are safe.

2. You are having trouble opening the door.

A broken lock can be an absolute nightmare. Especially when it occurs on the main entrance door. But the good news is that there are some easy steps you can take to ensure it doesn't get worse and that you can open your door again as soon as you can.

The first step is to check your door lock and make sure that it's not misaligned. If this is the case, it could be as simple as tightening a few of the screws. It is important to remember, though, that if this does not solve the problem then there's something wrong in the internal mechanics of the door lock.

Then, apply an oil-based lubricant to see if it helps to unlock the locking mechanism. The purpose of this is to assist the key to slide more easily into and out of the lock, so that it is able to be opened if needed. This is a suitable solution for most people. However in the event that the issue persists you might need to consult an expert locksmith.

Finally, if your door lock is older than 10 years old It's likely the time to get a new one. This is because door locks are not designed to last the entire life of a door, and even the highest quality door locks will need to be replaced at some point in time.

In order to replace the lock, you'll need to remove the current lock from your door. After you have removed the lock, you'll need measure your door thickness to ensure that the replacement will be suitable. For example Cylinder locks come in various shapes to fit various door thicknesses. You may also have to replace your entire door when the frame of your door has been damaged. The new lock will require an strike plate and latch plate to be installed into the frame. They are sold separately.

3. You're worried about a burglary

The occurrence of a break-in could shake your faith in the security of your home. If the culprits have left their marks on your door's frame (crowbar marks) or it is obvious that they were in the house (smoothed out the wood around your lock knob, broken lock) Then you must replace your locks to ensure that they are as secure and safe as possible.

Even if you believed in the previous owners, it's difficult to know if anyone else has a copy. 6-7% of unlawful entry is committed by those who have a key, so changing your locks is an effective preventative measure.


Another indication that you need to replace your locks is if the knobs appear to be sticking or difficult to open. This means that the mechanism within the lock is damaged due to tampering or just age-related wear and tear, making the lock vulnerable to failure and damage.

If you're having any of these issues, consider installing a door lock that is keyless instead. These eliminate the need for keys and can be programmed with one-time entry codes for contractors or pet sitters who require access. You can also purchase door locks that have a keypad, allowing you to enter the premises without touching anything.

A new lock isn't just about safety and security it could also be a method to modernize your home's look. Depending on the style of your door, you can find locks that will complement it perfectly.

Contact a locksmith in your neighborhood if you are ready to switch locks. They can help you select the best lock and install it swiftly. Make sure you measure your door prior to calling an expert locksmith. The door's thickness is essential to ensuring the lock is properly fitted. If your door is thicker than average, you might need to get a custom-made lock that can be installed securely. Begin by putting a wooden shim against the door with the tapered edge against the slot of the lock. Then, slide the tip of a screwdriver into the slot and then twist and pull the shim upwards. This will open the latch and the screws that hold the knobs in place and allow you to remove them.

4. You're tired of the same old keys

The replacement of your door lock is an easy upgrade that can increase the security of your home. This is a great DIY option, especially when you move frequently or you are a landlord that requires replacement locks for tenants. You can replace a doorlock within a matter of minutes if you know the steps.

Even if you know and trust the previous homeowners or tenants It is best to play it safe by installing new locks. You never know who could have keys from the past. This includes friends, family members and contractors as well as babysitters. In reality the people who have access to your house are accountable for 67 percent of all illegal entry.

Be sure to buy a replacement lock compatible with the hardware you have and the dimensions. Depending on the design of your door, you can choose from a deadbolt lock or a doorknob lock. Follow westminster front door locks replacement to install your new lock:

Begin by removing both of the old knobs from the door. Then, remove the screws that attach the latch plate to the door's edge. After removing the screws remove the latchplate and the two screws holding the strike plate or deadbolt plate to the door jamb.

Find the location of the interior handle/knob on the door using the template included with your lock set. Make sure the spindle (the long piece of metal that is affixed to the knob on the outside) can pass through the latch and operates it smoothly. Then, attach the knob or handle to the inside using the screws supplied and insert the lock cylinder into your interior latch, making sure that it is in the correct position and functions with the key.

Finish by attaching the deadbolt and strike plate with the screws that come with your replacement lock installed to secure them in the correct position. Once you've finished the process, test your new lock to ensure it operates correctly and that the knob inside is able to slide smoothly over the pins. Then, reassemble everything in reverse order.

Member since: Sunday, December 1, 2024

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