Reasons to Change Door Lock
You can change your door lock for many reasons, from improving the security of your home to redecorating your entryway. You may also need to change locks if your key gets stuck in the lock or is difficult to turn.
Change your lock is a simple project that even beginner DIY homeowners can take on. Get the tools you need to begin.
Remove the lock from the old one.
Before installing read , it is necessary to remove the old lock from the door. This step is especially important when you suspect that someone else has a key to your home. It could also be an ideal option if you have moved into a house, experienced a break-in or had a roommate move in. It's much simpler than you think to complete and can be completed in just a few minutes.
Begin by removing the screws that secure the deadbolt faceplate on the door frame. You'll have to remove the screws on both sides of the door to take off the faceplate. This will allow you to discover what's behind it and will give you a better idea of how to proceed with the rest of the steps.
Once you have removed your old faceplate, you will have to remove the bolt and strike plate. Use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen the bolt, and then remove it from the hole in the door. If the bolt is rusted you may need to use a chisel and hit it. If you're using a chisel, you must be careful not to scratch the door frame.
Before you remove the old lock, be sure that the new deadbolt and doorknob will fit into the holes on the door. Most hardware stores and big box stores sell various types of locks. They can assist you in choosing the best one to meet your needs. Ask for help if the lock you bought isn't the right one for your door.
Look for small depressions or notches inside the handle and around the trim when you remove the old lock. If you can locate them, insert a straightened safety-pin or flat screwdriver to release the handle.
Once the screw inside the handle is removed, you can now begin to remove the knob from its spindle. To do this, find the set screw located at the base of the knob, and loosen. The next step is to remove the knob from the spindle and carefully remove the spindle from the door.
Install the new lock
It's a great idea to change the locks on your doors regularly particularly if you've had a break-in. It's easy, affordable and effective to change the lock on your door. With a screwdriver, and a few basic steps, most people can do it themselves. You may also want to learn how you can change the lock's key to ensure that only you hold the key.
You will need to purchase a new lock that has the same keyway as your current lock. You can save money if you rekey the lock yourself. Most locksmiths charge extra to do this. You can purchase a new lock from an hardware store or online. A standard deadbolt will usually fit on all doors however, you'll have to measure the space on your door to make sure that it fits.
The majority times your new lock will be supplied with a cardboard template that shows how it will fit on the door. This template can be used to drill the hole. It's a lot easier than having to measure each time. If the template does not line up with your hole, you should return it to the hardware store and get an alternative.
When installing the new lock, you must be sure to place it on the right side of the door. You can check this by looking at the latch, which must be marked "up" or something similar. Make sure that the latch is properly seated in the plate and then secure it using the provided screws.
When replacing knob locks be sure to pay attention to its handing. Certain knob locks are left-handed. If you're not careful, the lock could be installed on the wrong side of your door, which could prevent it from being locked from the inside or outside.
After you've finished testing your new lock to confirm that it works. You should be able to lock the door from both the inside and outside, as well as unlock it using keys. If you're not happy with the outcome then you can always call an expert locksmith to repair it.
Test the lock
While a door lock that cannot be locked is a hassle and can be dangerous, it could also put your family's security at risk. It's simple to solve the majority of door lock issues by conducting some troubleshooting and lubrication. Verify that the key has been properly cut and the lock assembly isn't loose or dirty. If this doesn't fix the problem, you can try to lubricate the door lock actuator using powdered graphite or a silicone-based oil.
Ensure that the doorlock switch, wiring harnesses, and actuator connector all work properly. To do this, consult the manual or wiring diagram to determine the function and color-coding for all the door lock switch wires. Then, use a test light or digital meter to see whether the door lock actuator receives power and ground when the switches are turned on. If you notice the switches switch on and off with voltage, it means the switches are in good working order and the actuator will require replacement.
If the switch seems to be working, but the actuator doesn't move when you turn the knob it could be a problem with the actuator itself. The actuator cylinder is loaded with spring pins that keep the cylinder from rotating until a key is inserted and it pushes the pins up to fit the height of the key at the point of entry. In the end, this causes the cylinder to turn and open the lock body, allowing the handle to latch.
If the door lock actuator still not functioning, you can remove it with a small screwdriver. It is necessary to remove the locking bolt first and then separate the plastic cover which holds the electrical connector. Then disconnect the door lock actuator and let it drop down. Then you should be able to find and take off the two bolts of 10mm which hold the actuator in place. Once the actuator is removed, you should be capable of disconnecting the black electrical connector and pull it out along with the actuator and lock assembly.
Replace the key
If you have a keyed door knob or deadbolt, if it is not working correctly, you should either rekey the lock or replace it completely. This isn't difficult and could save you money. However, before you do this it is recommended to have a locksmith examine the locks and look for any issues. This will give you peace of assurance that your home is secure and safe.
Remove the exterior faceplate of the doorknob/deadbolt. If there are screws holding the faceplate then use a screwdriver to pull it off. Then, use a flat head screwdriver to take off the interior faceplate. Once you have removed the faceplate you can pull out the bolt and screw from the lock cylinder.
A locksmith can tell you whether you require a replacement or rekey the lock. They can also advise you about the best security options for your home. They will also make any necessary modifications to the door and frame to ensure that it is a perfect fit. They will also offer a warranty on their work.
If you decide to rekey the lock, you'll need to purchase a new key for it. It is crucial to select a lock key that is snugly fitted. If you use a key that isn't right, it could damage the mechanism's internal mechanisms and prevent it from working. To test the size of a key, simply insert it into the lock. If it is perfectly with the plug, it's of the correct size. If the pins protrude out from the top of the plug, they're not long.
You may want to change your door lock for a variety of reasons, including:
If you're moving into a previous owner's home or if you have lost your keys, rekeying the lock could be a more affordable alternative than replacing it. It can also be more cost-effective than a complete replacement. However, there are certain situations in which rekeying your lock isn't feasible. For instance, if your lock is damaged or has been repeatedly jammed, it's probably the time to replace it.