menu

Heath User

Heath User

Door Lock Replacement - What You Need to Know

It is a good idea for you to replace your locks when they start to display signs of being worn out. The signs could include issues with turning the lock or finding a key that doesn't fit.

It is easy to install new door hardware. It is all you need to do is follow these steps.

Deadbolt

The deadbolt is the primary defense of your door against forced entry. It is stronger and more secure than the latch that opens the lock. Therefore, you'll want to make sure that the deadbolt you choose to purchase is compatible with your needs. If you can, choose deadbolts that are made of case-hardened steel and has no exposed screw heads on the outside to avoid unauthorized drilling. To increase security, the inside of the deadbolt should be drilled into the door frame.

When you install the deadbolt, check that your new deadbolt's bolt is extending smoothly into the strike plate when you lock and close the door. If not, mortise the bolt into the strike plate using a wood chisel, and then install the deadbolt. Make sure the latch on the doorknob meets the deadbolt hole when you lock and close the door, too.

Check whether the new deadbolt is compatible with the old one before installing it. The majority of door locks come with a template that tells you how high above the doorknob the bolt should be, but it's always best to consult an expert at a hardware store if you're not sure of the backset measurement that is right for your doors. They should be able to point you towards models that will work with your doors and the existing deadbolt opening.

After ensuring that the new bolt assembly is of the proper length, screw it into the hole in the door. If your new deadbolt has a latch faceplate, screw it into place, too. It's an excellent idea to attach the faceplate using the screws recommended to the frame.

Some lock sets include the option of a "dummy" or decorative bolt so you can put in the keyed deadbolt and still have a functioning latch. If you have this option the dummy bolt must be installed using the same screws that are used for your faceplate of the latch and it's crucial that the two fit together properly for maximum security.

Some deadbolts feature one cylinder that is only accessible from the inside using an open thumb, while other come with a double cylinder that permits both keyed and non-keyed entry. It's best to choose a lock that is commercial grade for maximum security. They're typically tested to withstand 250,000 cycles of open and close before being sold to homeowners.

Latch

The latch is the part that retracts the bolt whenever you open or close the door. It is usually fastened by screws on the sides, but can be affixed to the strike plate of the jamb. It is crucial to replace a door lock with the correct one for the hardware you have. You can either put the latch against your existing hardware or check the label on the replacement. Dunn Lumber carries a variety of brands, however it's best to use the same brand as your existing hardware to ensure that you get a latch that will fit properly.

Certain doors have an ahasp instead of a latch. A hasp is a strap that has a slot in it to fit over staples. The staple is then attached to the frame of the door or door using the help of a nail. When the door is closed the strap pulls back on the staple and locks it into the frame. Commercial buildings utilize a hasp as it is cheaper than a lock.


Like all mechanisms with moving parts, a lock can wear out from frequent use over time. Sometimes the internal mechanism will begin to "stick" and become difficult to turn, requiring to replace the entire lockset. Sometimes the exterior doorknob will fail and it is essential to replace that as well.

If your lock is stuck, you can use some graphite inside the keyhole. You can either squirt some on the key or rub it onto the inside of the lock. Then operate the lock a few times to incorporate the graphite into the mechanism. You can remove the knob using a screwdriver, which will expose all the parts and allow you to observe what's going on inside.

After taking the knobs off then tighten the three or two setscrews at the edges of the cylinder by turning them clockwise. You should also remove the faceplate and replace it. Surface-mounted rimlocks also have an additional set of cylinder screws on the back of the case that must be removed along with the faceplate.

Strike Plate

The strike plate is a reinforcement and upgrade to the locking system. It is placed to the holes for deadbolts and master key systems bolts. It keeps intruders at bay by ensuring that the latch of the lock is held in the plate when the bolt is engaged. In addition to increasing security, a good strike plate can also improve the life of the lock.

A standard strike plate looks like a flat, metal plate with a hole or set of holes cut into it. It is affixed to the door frame, usually using screws, which gives the latch something to sink into as it closes. The strike plate needs to be precisely aligned with the lockset in order to give maximum protection against burglaries.

If the strike plate of a door is damaged, it must be replaced as soon as possible to ensure that the door is able to close and latch correctly. When replacing a strikeplate, you must first ensure that it is properly aligned with the bolthole in the doorjamb. A simple way to do this is to place tape over the bolt hole and then test the latch by closing and opening the door. If the latch doesn't work, remove the tape. Then, chisel the hole to ensure that the strike plate is flush with the doorjamb.

After the area has been chiseled it is vital to use a larger bolt to fix the strike plate. They should be at least 3 inches in length in order to ensure they are anchored securely into a stud that is behind the trim board. If you don't install the screws that are longer, the wood in the doorjamb could split during a kicking attack by a burglar, making the door vulnerable.

A professional locksmith can quickly replace a damaged or worn out strike plate. They can also install new strike plates on doors that have never been fitted with them before. Additionally, they can upgrade existing strike plates to improve the security of a building and enhance its appearance. This could help property owners draw in tenants looking for a safe and secure living space and peace of mind.

Keys

The key cylinder is the component of your lock that accepts a specific key to shift pins into place so the inner handle can be turned. The key cylinder is the most crucial element of your door lock, because it fulfills the function for which locks were created - to protect you, your family members, and your possessions. This is the reason that people often prefer to have their locks reset rather than replaced.

The process of replacing locks is more difficult than simply replacing the existing handle-lock combo or deadbolt. A complete change in the lock requires taking the old cylinder and hardware from the door (including the handle if you have a knob-lock combo) and then installing a new one in its place. There are numerous DIY-friendly tools that can be used to replace the door lock. However, it is best to contact an expert locksmith to ensure that the job is done correctly.

It is essential to have the correct key before you install your new lock and cylinder. A key that is a duplicate will not function properly and could cause the lock to fail completely, rendering it impossible to open. A professional can help prevent this from happening by ensuring that you have a an actual, working key for your home.

Next, you will need to remove the faceplate and the latch plate. repairmywindowsanddoors will need a screwdriver to remove the screws which hold them in place. It is possible to keep them in place if new plates are identical to the original ones. This will cut down on time. If you have to replace them, make sure you don't overtighten screws as this can reduce their grip.

After you have removed the plates, you will need to determine the measurements for your new locks. It is important to know the door's dimensions prior to visiting the hardware store. While many locksets can be used today to fit on a standard door's thickness, it is best to get them in advance. You should also be aware that doorknob locksets will often differ in size from deadbolt locksets, and commercial models may have an enlarged bolt or latch.

Member since: Thursday, November 28, 2024

https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/middlesbrough-door-locks-replacement-near-me/

BitsDuJour is for People who Love Software
Every day we review great Mac & PC apps, and get you discounts up to 100%
Follow Us
© Copyright 2026 BitsDuJour LLC. Code & Design. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy