When the locks on your door start to begin to show signs of wear and tear it's usually an ideal time to replace the locks. This could be due to things like difficulty turning the lock or having a key that doesn't fit.
The good news is that installing new hardware for your door locks is actually quite simple. All you have to do is follow these steps.
Deadbolt
The deadbolt is the door's primary defense against forced entry. It is more durable and secure than the latch that opens the lock. So, you'll want to make sure that the deadbolt you choose to purchase is compatible with your needs. If possible, choose the deadbolt made of case hardened steel that has no exposed screwheads on the exterior to stop drilling by anyone else. The interior side of the deadbolt should also be inserted into the door frame to improve security.
During the installation process, check that your new deadbolt's bolt is extending smoothly into the strike plate after you shut and lock the door. If not, mortise the bolt in the strike plate using the help of a wood chisel before you install the deadbolt. Make sure the latch on the doorknob meets the deadbolt hole when you close and lock the door, too.
Make sure that the new deadbolt matches the old one before installing it. The majority of door locks have an illustration of how high the bolt should be above the doorknob. However, it is always best to consult an expert in the field in case you aren't sure of the backset measurement you need for your doors. They'll be able to direct you to models that are compatible with your door and deadbolt opening.
After ensuring that the new bolt assembly is the right length, you can screw it into the hole of the door. Screw the latch faceplate into place if your new deadbolt has one. It's an excellent idea for you to screw the latch faceplate with the recommended screws to the frame.
Some lock sets include some lock sets have a "dummy" or decorative bolt, which allows you to install the deadbolt with a key and still have a functional latch. If you're given the option, the dummy bolt must be installed using the same screws that are used to attach the faceplate for the latch. This will give you the best security.
Some deadbolts can only be opened through a thumb-turn, while others come with two cylinders that permit both keyed and non-keyed access. No matter which type you select, it's a good idea to buy a commercial grade lock for the best 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 whenever you open or close the door. It is usually secured with screws on the side however it can be attached to the strike plate of the door jamb. It is essential to replace the door latch with the correct one for the hardware you have. You can either hold the latch up against the existing hardware or check the label on a replacement door locks. Dunn Lumber carries a variety of brands, however it's generally best to choose the identical brand as your current hardware to ensure that you get an appropriate latch that fits correctly.
Some doors have an ahasp instead of latch. A hasp is a strap with a slot punched in it, which is able to be positioned over the staple. The staple is then attached to the door frame or door with a nail. When the door is shut, the strap will pull the staple down and locks it into position. Commercial buildings use a hasp because it is less expensive than locks.
Locks can wear out over time as does any other mechanism that has moving parts. Sometimes, the internal mechanism may "stick" or become difficult to turn. This may require replacement door lock of the entire lockset. Sometimes, the doorknob or handle may break, making it necessary to replace it too.
If your lock is stuck, use some graphite inside the keyhole. You can either spray some on the key or rub it onto the interior side of the lock, and then use the lock a few times to incorporate the graphite into the mechanism. You can also remove the knob with an screwdriver, which will expose all the parts and let you observe what's going on inside.
After taking the knobs off, tighten the two or three screws on the outside of the cylinder by turning them clockwise. You should also remove the faceplate and replace it. Surface-mounted rimlocks also have an additional set cylinder setscrews on the back case which must be removed as well as the faceplate.
Strike Plate
The strike plate, which is fixed to the door frame above the holes to accommodate the master key or deadbolt bolt of the system, reinforces and enhances the locking mechanism. It keeps intruders at bay by ensuring that the latch of the lock is secured in the plate when the bolt is engaged. A top-quality strikeplate can enhance the life of locks as well as increase security.
A standard strike plate appears like a flat metal plate with holes or sets of holes cut into it. It is attached to the door frame, usually with screws, which gives the latch something to sink into as it closes. It is essential that the strike plate be carefully aligned with the lockset to provide the best protection against burglaries.
If the strike plate on the door is damaged, you should replace it as soon as you can. This will ensure that the door can close and latch properly. To replace a strikeplate you must first make sure that it is properly aligned with the bolthole in the doorjamb. A simple way to do this is to put a piece of tape in the bolt hole, and then test the latch by closing and opening the door. If the latch does not catch, remove the tape. Then, chisel the hole to ensure that the strike plate is flush with the doorjamb.
Once the area is cut out it is essential to use a more powerful screw to fix the strike plate. They should be at least three inches long to ensure that they are securely anchored into the stud that is behind the trim board. If you don't install the longer screws, the doorjamb's wood could split during a kicking attack by an burglar, leaving the door vulnerable.
A professional locksmith can swiftly replace the strike plate that has become worn or damaged. They can also install new strike plates on doors that have never been fitted with them before. They can also modify existing strikeplates to enhance the security of the building and its appearance. This will help property owners attract tenants who are seeking a secure living environment and greater peace of mind.
Keys
The key cylinder is the part of your lock that accepts a specific key to move pins into place so the inner handle can be turned. The key cylinder is the most crucial component of your door lock, since it serves the purpose that locks were made for - to protect your family, you, and your possessions. This is the reason that many people choose to get their locks rekeyed instead of replacing a upvc door lock them.
It is more complicated to replace locks than to swap out the existing handle and deadbolt. A complete change in the lock requires taking the old cylinder and hardware from the door (including the handle when you have a knob lock combination) and putting a brand new one in its place. There are a variety of DIY-friendly kits that can be used to replace the door lock. However, it is recommended to speak with a locksmith to make sure the work is done correctly.
It is crucial to have the correct key before you install your new lock and cylinder. A duplicate key will not perform as expected and could cause the lock's failure which makes it impossible for you to open. A skilled professional can assist you in avoiding this by ensuring that you have a real, working key for your home.
Next, you will need to take off the faceplate and latch plate. You will need a screwdriver for the removal of the screws that hold them in place. If the new plates will be similar to the original ones, you may wish to hold them in place to save time. If you must replace them, make sure not to overtighten the screws because doing so can cause them to lose their grip on the door.
After taking off the plates, you will have to determine the proper measurement to determine the proper size of the lock. It is essential to know the dimensions of your door before visiting the hardware store. Although many locksets are designed to fit a standard door thickness, it is best to purchase them ahead of time. Doorknob locksets tend to be different sizes than deadbolt locks commercial models might have a bigger latch or bolt.
Strike Plate
