13 Things About Door Lock Change You May Not Know
How to Do a Door Lock Change
Door lock change is a quick and cheap method to boost your home's security. The process is not for everyone. It requires a certain amount of patience and skill.
It is necessary to replace the cylinder that is inside the knob's body. The cylinder is responsible for recognizing the key as it is inserted in the lock.
Removal of the old lock
The first step to replace a door lock is to remove the old lock. It's a simple process, but you must keep certain things in mind. First, make sure that your new lock is the right size for the door you have. This will ensure that it fits snugly and does not leave a gap in the deadbolt plug or latch.
Once you have removed the latch plate look for two bolts or screws on the inside of the casing, which connect the casing and halves of the lock together. Unscrew them using a screwdriver, then pull the lock out of the door. If you have a mortise locking, there might be a set screw located at the base of the handle that binds it to the spindle. Take off the doorknobs by removing this screw with the help of a screwdriver.
It is also recommended to remove the deadbolt latch and latch plug from the hole in your door jamb. Install your new lock. If you are replacing a mortise lock you should also measure the distance between the lock case and the edge of your door to ensure that the new lock will be able to fit.
You may want to replace your lock for a variety of reasons, such as when you suspect that someone else is holding the key or you have an incoming roommate. You could save money if you take the lock off yourself, instead of hiring a professional. It's much easier than you think and can be accomplished in just a few moments.
Start by removing the trim and handle from your door. Then, pry the trim loose using a flat screwdriver. It should be possible to pull off the majority of it. In some cases you might be able to take off the handles completely. Then, check the handle for a tiny hole on the interior side and insert a straightened clip into it. This will trigger the release mechanism and allow you to remove the handle from the door. Then, look for another small tab that is located inside of the lock, and press it with a screwdriver that is flat. After the spindle has been removed, you can remove the cylinder and the housing.
Selecting a new locking system
There are a lot of options available when it comes to selecting the right lock. Look at different kinds of locks, and find one that matches your door's style. Take into consideration the backset, which is the distance between the edge and the center of lock hole. Also, think about the cross bore, which is a small hole in the middle of your door frame. Select a lock that is suitable for the door's thickness and the swing.
The majority of door locks have been assessed by BHMA and the American National Standards Institute to provide you with an idea of how well they stand up to use and how difficult to disable or pick. A grade 3 lock may be the best choice for a peaceful suburban apartment complex, whereas an entry grade lock could stand up to the traffic that is frequented by a storefront on a busy city street.
Most smart door locks require a digital code to open. If you are concerned about hacking, or any other security concerns, consult a professional locksmith.
Replacing the cylinder
If the cylinder of your door lock is broken or damaged, you can replace it in a matter of minutes by completing a do-it-yourself project. The key is to select the correct cylinder and follow the steps that are included with it. First, take off the knob or handle if it is present. Then, using a screwdriver, unscrew the trim that surrounds the lock cylinder. Once the trim is removed, you will be able to access the screws that keep the cylinder in place and remove them with the flat-head screwdriver. The cylinder can then be gently pulled out of the door.
Before you install the new cylinder, make sure it's the correct length for the door you are using. With a tape measure, determine the distance between the center of the cylinder and the left and right sides. Purchase a new cylinder which has the same measurements. This will help prevent cylinder snapping, which can happen when the door is kicked out or when the key is stuck inside.
Insert the replacement cylinder in the door, and then turn the key. This will align the cylinder with the carriage which is typically on the outside of your lock. Then, you can loosen the set screw, which is supposed to be a few turns inside the head. If there is a screw located on the edge of the case, which holds the door, you'll have to loosen it.
You can replace the lock cylinder you have used with the new one by inserting it into the case and then tightening the set screws. The process of reinstalling the component that connects a cylinder with the stem of a lock indicator is also important. It is done by pulling three small tabs at the back of the cylindrical with needle-nosed pliers. Then, you can connect the smaller bracket to the back of the cylinder. Then, you should reinstall the latch plate and strike plate, along with the retaining rings fixed to the top of the lock cylinder.
Installing a new lock
If you're replacing an old lock, you must begin by taking measurements of the width of the door. Most residential locksets are designed for a door thickness of 1 3/8 - 3/4 inch. If your door is thicker than 1 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches, you'll need a thicker door kit. This will include longer screws, or a longer spindle extension or the tail piece for door knobs.
Most locks come with comprehensive instruction booklet that will assist you in installing the new hardware. Before you begin, go through the instructions to ensure you've followed all the steps. The booklet will give you a good idea of how much skill is required to complete the task. If you're replacing a lock for the first time, you might consider asking a more experienced person for help.
Before installing the new lock it's a good idea to cover the holes with tape the old hardware. This will prevent the screws from falling out of the holes and protect any tile you might have put in the area. This will also protect your tiles from damage caused by dirt, rust and grime. SECURAM Touch comes with a piece of painter's tape, which is designed to be used to protect your painter's tape, but you can also use gaffer's tape or masking tape when you have it.
After you have removed the screws that hold the lock's inner half to the exterior then remove the lock immediately. It's crucial to do this as quickly as possible to prevent the lock from accidentally closing itself and harming the mechanism.
Fit the new latch bolt into the upper cross bore of the new lock if it has one. Make sure to place it in the right position, which will be indicated by an arrow. Next, fit the latch plate onto the bolt and screw it in the correct position.
Attach the deadbolt to the jamb of the door. Test the deadbolt by throwing it few times to ensure that it is extended all the way through the strike plate and is fully secure. Follow how to replace window locks included in your electronic smart lock to program it. This involves downloading an app and registering your email address, verifying your identity and connecting to the wireless network to connect your device.