Door Lock Replacement - What You Need to Know
When the locks on your door begin to show signs of wear and tear, it's generally a good idea to replace the locks. This could be due to things like difficulty turning the lock or finding a key that doesn't fit.
It is simple to set up new door hardware. All you have to do is follow these steps.
Deadbolt
The deadbolt is the primary security for your door against forced entry. It is stronger and safer than the latch that activates the lock. So, you'll want to ensure that the deadbolt you choose to purchase is compatible with your needs. If you can, opt for deadbolts made of case-hardened steel and has no screw heads exposed on the outside to stop unintentional drilling. upvc door lock replacement of the deadbolt should also be secured to your door frame to improve security.
During the process of installation Make sure that the new deadbolt's bolt extends smoothly into the strike plate once you close and lock the door. If it doesn't use a wood chisel to make a mortise for the bolt hole into the strike plate, and then install the deadbolt. When you shut and lock your door, be sure that the latch of the doorknob is in line with the hole of the deadbolt.
Before you install your new deadbolt, check that it matches the size of the previous one. The majority of door locks come with a template that shows you how high above the doorknob the bolt should be. However, it's always best to consult an expert at a hardware store if you're not sure of the backset measurement that is appropriate for your doors. They will be able to direct you towards models that are compatible with your door and the existing deadbolt opening.
After you've confirmed that your new bolt assembly is of the proper length, screw it into the hole of the door. If your new deadbolt has a faceplate for the latch, screw it in place and secure it, too. It's also a good idea for you to attach the latch faceplate using the recommended screws to the frame.
Certain lock sets have an attractive or "dummy" bolt, which lets you install the keyed-deadbolt, while having a functional latch. If you're given the option, the dummy bolt must be installed using the same screws that are used to install the faceplate of the latch. This will ensure the highest security.
Some deadbolts can only be opened via a thumb-turn from inside, while others have two cylinders that allow both keyed and unkeyed access. Regardless of what type you select it's a good idea to purchase a commercial grade lock for the highest level of security. These are typically tested to withstand 250,000 open and close cycles before being sold to homeowners.
Latch
The latch is the part of the lock that retracts the bolt to open and close the door. It is usually secured with screws on the side however it can be attached to the strike plate of the jamb. When replacing a door latch it is essential to ensure you choose the correct one that matches the hardware you have. You can either put the latch against the hardware you have already installed or check the label on the replacement. Dunn Lumber carries a variety of brands, however it's best to stick with the identical brand as your current hardware to ensure that you purchase the latch that fits perfectly.
Some doors are equipped with a havep instead of a latch. A hasp is a strap with a slot punched in it, which fits over the staple. The staple is then fastened to the door or door frame with a nail. When the door is shut, the strap pulls down on the staple and locks in place. A hasp is usually used in commercial buildings because it is less expensive than a deadbolt.
Like any mechanism that has moving parts, a lock will wear out due to repeated use over time. Sometimes the internal mechanism can "stick" or become difficult to turn. This will require the replacement of the entire lockset. Sometimes, the doorknob on the outside will break and it is necessary to replace that as well.
If your lock is stuck, you can apply some graphite to the keyhole. You can either dust or spray it onto the key, then turn the lock a couple of times to work in the graphite. You can also make use of a screwdriver to take off the knob, which will reveal the inside components and let you observe what's going on inside.
After you've removed the knobs, look for the two or three cylinder setscrews on the outside of the cylinder. Tighten the screws by turning counterclockwise. It is also recommended to remove the faceplate and replace it. Surface-mounted rimlocks have an additional set cylinder setscrews on the back case that must be removed, as well as the faceplate.
Strike Plate
The strike plate, which is fixed to the door frame above the holes that accommodate the master key or deadbolt bolt of the system, reinforces and enhances a locking mechanism. It assists in keeping intruders away by ensuring that the latch of the lock is caught by the strike plate when the bolt or latch is engaged. A top-quality strikeplate can enhance the durability of locks and improve security.
A typical 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 using screws, which gives the latch something to sink into as it closes. The strike plate needs to be aligned precisely with the lockset to provide maximum protection against burglaries.
If the strike plate of a door is damaged, it should be replaced as soon as is feasible to ensure that the door can close and latch correctly. To replace a strikeplate you must first make sure that it is aligned with the bolthole of the doorjamb. This can be accomplished by placing a piece of adhesive tape over the bolt hole and then attempting to test the latch. If the latch doesn't work it, take the tape off. Then, chisel the hole to create a aligned with the doorjamb.
After the area has been chiseled, it is vital to use a stronger bolt to secure the strike plate. They should be at least three inches long to ensure that they are securely anchored into a stud in the trim board. If you do not use the longer screws and the wood in the doorjamb could split during a kick-in attack by a burglar, and make the door vulnerable.
A professional locksmith will quickly replace a worn or damaged strike plate. They can also install new strike plates on doors that never had them before. In addition, they can upgrade existing strike plates to enhance the security of a property and improve its appearance. This can help property owners attract tenants who want a safer living environment and more peace of mind.
Keys
The key cylinder is the component of your lock that accepts a particular key to shift pins into place so that the inner handle can be turned. The key cylinder is the most crucial element of your door lock, since it serves the purpose that locks were made for to safeguard you, your family members, and your possessions. Rekeying locks is a cost-effective option than replacing them.
The replacement of a lock is more complex than simply replacing the existing deadbolt or handle-lock combination. The old hardware, cylinder, and handle (if you have the knob and lock combo) must be removed from the door before the new lock can be installed. While there are plenty of DIY-friendly tools that you can use to change a lock yourself, it is recommended that you contact a skilled locksmith to make sure the job is done correctly.
It is important that you have the right key before you install your new lock and cylinder. A duplicate key won't work properly and could cause the lock to fail, making it impossible to open. A professional can prevent this by ensuring you have an authentic, functioning key for your home.
The next step is to remove the faceplate and then the latch plate. To remove the screws that hold them in place, you'll require the help of a screwdriver. It is possible to keep them in place if the new plates are similar to the original ones. This will save you time. If you have to replace them, be careful not to tighten the screws too much because doing so can affect their grip on the door.
After removing the plates you will need measure for the new locks. It is crucial to know your door's dimensions before you go to the hardware store. Although many locksets today will fit a standard door thickness, it's better to get them in advance. It is also important to be aware that doorknob locksets tend to differ in size from deadbolt locksets, and commercial models can come with an enlarged latch or bolt.