How to Do a Door Lock Change
Change your door lock is an easy and affordable way to improve the security of your home. The process is not for everyone. It requires some expertise and perseverance.
It is necessary to replace the cylinder that is within the knob’s body. The cylinder is responsible to recognize the key when it is inserted into the lock.
The old lock can be removed
The first step to replace a door lock is to take out the old one. It’s a easy process, but you must keep a few things in your mind. Make sure your new lock fits your door. This will ensure that it fits snugly and doesn’t leave a gap around the latch or deadbolt plug.
After you have removed the latch plate, you will have to look for two bolts or screws on the inside of casing that hold the casing to the two halves of the lock. Remove these screws using the help of a screwdriver, and then remove the lock off the door. If you are using a mortise locking system there is a set screw that holds the handle to the spindle. Remove the doorknobs by unscrewing this screw using a screwdriver.
It is also recommended to remove the deadbolt latch and latch plug from the hole in the door jamb. Then, you are able to install your new lock. If you’re replacing a mortise you should take a measurement of the distance between your lock’s case and your door’s edge to make sure that the new lock is a good fit.
Many reasons could cause you to replace your door lock, for instance being concerned that someone else may have the key, or you are welcoming the arrival of a new roommate. You can save money by deciding to take the lock off yourself, instead of hiring a professional. It’s easier than most people think, and it can be done in a few minutes.
Start by removing the trim and handle from your door. Then, pry the trim loose using a screwdriver that is flat. It should be possible to pull off the majority of it. In certain cases you may be able to remove the handles completely. The next step is to look for a pinhole on the inside of the handle and insert a straightened clip into it. This will activate the release mechanism and allow you to remove the handle from the door. Look for a small tab that is located inside of the lock and push it with a screwdriver that is flat. After the spindle has been removed, you can remove the cylinder and housing.
The process of selecting a new lock
When it comes time to pick the right lock for your home, you have many choices. Look at different types of locks, and choose one that is compatible with the style of your door. Take into consideration the backset (the distance between the edge of the door and the center of the hole for the lock) and the cross bore (small hole along the edge of the door frame). Also, be sure to select a lock that is able to fit the door thickness and swing.
The majority of door locks are assessed by BHMA and the American National Standards Institute to give you an idea of how they will withstand use and how difficult to disable or pick. A grade 3 lock may be a good choice for a tranquil suburban apartment complex, whereas the grade 1 lock may hold up better to the traffic near a busy store front on a city street.
Most smart door locks require a digital code to open. If you’re worried about hacking or other security concerns, speak to an expert locksmith.
Replace the cylinder
It is easy to replace damaged or broken doors lock cylinder with a simple DIY project. The trick is to select the correct cylinder and follow the directions that come with it. First, remove the knob or handle if it is present. Then, using a screwdriver, unscrew the trim that surrounds the lock cylinder. After the trim is removed, you can take off the screws that hold the cylinder with a flathead. The cylinder is then gently lifted out of the door.
Make sure you measure the length of your new cylinder prior to installing it. Find the distance from the center to the left and right sides of the cylinder with an instrument. Purchase a new cylinder which has the same measurements. This will prevent the cylinder from snapping, which could happen when the door is kicked out or when the key sticks inside.
If you have a suitable replacement window lock (writes in the official telegra.ph blog) cylinder, insert it into the door and turn the key. This will ensure that the cylinder is aligned with the carrier, which is usually located on the outside of the lock. Then, loosen the set screws which should be a couple of turns in the head. If there is a screw located on the outside of the case that is holding the door, you will need to remove it.
You can replace the lock cylinder you have used with a new one by sliding it into the case and tightening the set screws. You must also install the piece that connects the cylinder with the lock indicator stem that you can do by removing three small tabs on the back of the cylinder using needle-nose pliers. Then, you can connect the smaller bracket to the back of the cylinder. You must then install the strike plate and latch plate, as well as the retaining rings attached to the top of the lock cylinder.
Installing the new lock
Begin by measuring the width of your door if you are replacing an existing lock. The majority of residential locksets have a thickness of 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches. If your door is thicker it will require a thick door kit that includes longer screws as well as longer tail pieces (for door knobs) or spindle extensions (for deadbolts).
Most locks come equipped with a thorough installation guide to help you. Read the instructions carefully before starting the process to make sure that you are following all the steps. The manual will also give you an idea of the level of skill required to complete the task. If you’re replacing a lock for the first time, you might want to ask an experienced person for help.
It’s a great idea seal the openings of the old hardware prior to installing the new lock. This will stop screws from slipping through the holes and will also protect any tiles you have installed. It will also protect your tiles from any damage caused by dirt, rust and grime. SECURAM Touch includes a strip of masking or gaffer tape. However, you can use any tape you have.
After you have removed the screws that hold the lock’s inner half to the exterior and pull the lock straight away. It is important to do this as quickly as possible to prevent the window lock repairs from accidentally closing on itself and damage the mechanism.
Fit the new latch bolt in the upper cross bore of your new lock, if it comes with one. Make sure you place it in the correct place that is usually marked by an indication on the faceplate. Next, fit the latch plate over the bolt and secure it in the correct position.
Finally, screw the deadbolt and strike plate into the door jamb. Try the deadbolt a few times by throwing it to make sure it extends into the strike plate. If you’re using an electronic smart window lock replacement, make sure to follow the instructions to program it. This involves downloading an app and registering your e-mail address, verifying your identity and connecting to the wireless network in order to add your device.