Door Lock Replacement - What You Need to Know
It is a good idea for you to replace your locks when they start to show signs that they are worn out. The signs could include issues with turning the lock or having a key that doesn't fit.
It is easy to install new door hardware. All you have to do is follow these simple steps.
Deadbolt
The deadbolt is your primary security for your door against forced entry. It is stronger and more secure than the latch which activates the lock. So, you'll want to ensure that your new deadbolt meets your needs. If possible, choose the deadbolt made of case hardened steel that has no exposed screwheads on the outside to prevent unauthorized drilling. To ensure security, the inner side of your deadbolt must be drilled into the door frame.
During installation, be sure that the bolt on your new deadbolt is extending smoothly through the strike plate when you shut and lock the doors. If not, you can mortise the bolt in the strike plate with a wood chisel and then install the deadbolt. Make sure the doorknob's latch aligns with the hole in the deadbolt when you lock and close the door, too.
Before you install your new deadbolt, check that it is the same size of the previous one. The majority of door locks have an example of how far the bolt should be above the doorknob. However, it's always recommended to consult a hardware expert for advice if you're not sure what backset measurement you need for your doors. They can guide you to models that are compatible with your doors and the existing deadbolt opening.
Screw the bolt assembly into the hole in the door after making sure it is the correct length. Screw the latch faceplate into the hole if the new deadbolt has one. It's an excellent idea for you to attach the faceplate using the recommended screws to the frame.
Some lock sets include the option of a "dummy" or decorative bolt, which allows you to put in the keyed deadbolt and still have a functioning latch. If you're able to use this feature, the dummy bolt should be installed using the same screws that are used for your latch faceplate and it is essential that the two bolts are positioned properly for maximum security.
Some deadbolts have one cylinder that is only accessible from inside with the thumb-turn, whereas others have a double cylinder that permits both keyed and non-keyed access. It is recommended to select an item that is commercial grade to ensure the highest security. They've been tested to withstand 250,000 cycles of closing and opening before they are sold to homeowners.
Latch
The latch is the part that retracts the bolt when you open or close the door. It's usually secured by screws that are located on the side of the lock, however it may also be fastened to the strike plate or to the inside of the door jamb. When replacing a door latch it is important to ensure that you purchase the right one to match your existing hardware. You can test this by putting the latch next to the hardware you have already, or look at the label of a replacement. Dunn Lumber carries a variety of brands, however it's best to use the identical brand as your current hardware to ensure that you get a latch that will fit correctly.
Some doors have a hasp instead of latch. A hasp is a strap with a slot it that allows it to be placed over the staple. upvc door replacement lock is then fastened to the door door frame with a nail. When the door is closed the strap pulls back on the staple and locks into the frame. A hasp is typically employed in commercial buildings since it is less expensive than deadbolts.
Locks can wear out over time as does any other mechanism that has moving parts. Sometimes, the internal mechanism may start to "stick" and be difficult to turn, making it necessary to replace the entire lockset. Other times the exterior doorknob or handle will simply fail, requiring to replace it also.
If your lock is stuck, use some graphite inside the keyhole. You can either dust or spray it on the key, and then turn the lock a couple of times to work in the graphite. You can also employ a screwdriver for the removal of the knob and reveal the internal components and let you observe what's happening inside.
After you've removed the knobs, locate the cylinder with two or three setscrews along the edge of the cylinder. Then tighten them by turning them clockwise. Also, remove the faceplate and replace it. Surface-mounted rim locks include an additional set of cylinder screws on the rear of the case. These must be removed, along with the cover plate.
Strike Plate
The strike plate, attached to the door frame, above the holes that house the master key bolt or deadbolt bolt of the system, reinforces and enhances a locking mechanism. It helps keep intruders out by making sure that the latch of the lock is caught by the strike plate when the bolt or latch is engaged. In addition to increasing security, a top-quality strike plate can also improve the life of a lock.
Standard strike plates are flat pieces of metal with holes, or several holes cut into them. It is attached to the door frame usually with screws, which gives the latch something to sink into when it closes. The strike plate has to be precisely aligned with the lockset to ensure maximum protection against burglaries.
If the strike plate of the door is damaged, you must replace it as soon as you can. This will ensure that your door can close and latch correctly. The first step to replace the strike plate is to make sure that it is aligned correctly with the bolt hole inside the doorjamb. An easy way to accomplish this is to place a piece of tape in the bolt hole. Then, test the latch by opening and closing the door. If the latch doesn't catch, remove the tape. Then chisel the area to make the strike plate aligned with the doorjamb.
Once the area is removed it is essential to use a longer screw to anchor the strike plate. They must be at least 3 inches in length to ensure that they are securely fixed to a stud that is behind the trim board. If you don't install the screws that are longer, the doorjamb's wooden frame could split during a kicking attack by an burglar, leaving 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 a building's security and improve appearance. This will help property owners attract tenants who are looking for a safe and secure living environment and greater peace of mind.
Keys
The key cylinder is the part of your lock that accepts a specific key that allows pins to be moved into place so that the inner handle can be turned. The key cylinder is the most crucial part of your door lock, because it fulfills the function for which locks were designed to protect your family, you, and your belongings. It is for this reason that people often get their locks rekeyed rather than replaced.
The replacement of locks is more difficult than simply swapping out the existing deadbolt or handle-lock combination. A complete change in the lock requires removal of the old cylinder as well as hardware from the door (including the handle in the case of a knob-lock combination) and putting a brand new one in its place. There are numerous DIY-friendly tools that can be used to replace a door lock. However, it is best to contact an expert locksmith to ensure that the job is done properly.
It is crucial to have the correct key before you install your new lock and the cylinder. A duplicate key will not work properly and could cause the lock to fail and make it impossible for you to open. A skilled professional can assist you in avoiding this by making sure that you have a genuine, functional key for your home.
The next step is to remove the faceplate and then the latch plate. To remove the screws holding them in place, you will require an screwdriver. It is possible to leave them in place if the plates you are replacing are identical to the originals. This will cut down on time. If you have to replace them, be careful not to overtighten screws, as this can weaken their grip.
After removing the plates, you will need to determine the measurements for your new locks. It is crucial to know the dimensions of your door prior to visiting the hardware store. Although a lot of locksets available today will fit in a standard door's thickness, it's best to purchase them ahead of time. Doorknob locksets are often different sizes from deadbolt locks, commercial models might have a larger latch or bolt.