How to Do a Door Lock Change
Change of the door lock is an easy and inexpensive method to boost your home's security. This isn't for everyone. It requires a certain amount patience and skill.
It is necessary to replace the cylinder that is located within the knob's body. The cylinder is responsible for recognizing the key when it is inserted into the lock.
Removal of the old lock
First, you must remove the lock that was previously in place. This is a relatively simple process, however there are a few points to keep in mind. Make sure your new lock fits your door. This will ensure that it fits snugly and does not create a gap around the latch or deadbolt plug.
After you have removed the latch plate look for two screws or bolts on the inside of the casing that hold the casing and the halves of the lock together. Unscrew these with a screwdriver and then pull the lock out of the door. If you have a mortise lock there could be a set screw located at the base of the handle that binds it to the spindle. Remove the doorknobs by unscrewing this screw with the help of a screwdriver.
Take the deadbolt and latch plug from your door jamb. Then, you can 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 might want to change your lock for various reasons, for instance, if you suspect that someone else is holding the key, or if you have a new roommate. You could save money if you take the lock off yourself instead of hiring a professional. It's much easier than most people imagine and can be accomplished in a matter of a few minutes.
Remove the trim and handle of your door. With a flat screwdriver take off the trim. You will be able twist off the majority of it, and in certain cases the handles could come off entirely. Next, look for a hole on the inside of the handle, and insert an unstraightened clip into it. This will activate the release mechanism, allowing you to take off the handle. The next step is to look at the interior side of the lock for another small tab that you can press using a screwdriver that is flat. Once the spindle has been removed, you can remove the housing and cylinder.
Selecting a new locking system
There are many options to choose from when it comes to choosing the right lock. Look at different kinds of locks, and find one that matches the style of your door. Think about 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 that runs along the edge of the door frame). Select a lock that will fit the door's thickness and swing.
Most door locks are assessed by BHMA and the American National Standards Institute to give you an idea of how well they stand up to use and how difficult to pick or disable. A lock of grade 3 could be perfect for a quiet apartment building in the countryside, whereas locks of grade 1 might be more appropriate for an area with a lot of traffic, such as the storefront.
Most smart door locks require digital code to open. If you are worried about hacking or other security concerns, consult an expert locksmith.
Replace the cylinder
You can easily replace a damaged or broken door lock cylinder by doing a simple DIY project. The key is to choose the correct cylinder and follow the steps that accompany it. The first step is to take off the knob or handle should there be one and then remove the trim that is attached to the base of the lock cylinder by using the help of a screwdriver. Once the trim has been removed, it is possible to remove the screws holding the cylinder with the flathead. The cylinder is then gently removed from the door.
Be sure to measure the length of your new cylinder before installing it. Measure the distance from the center to the left and right sides of the cylinder using a tape measure. Then, purchase another cylinder that has the same measurements. This will stop the cylinder from snapping, which can occur when the door is kicked in or when the key sticks inside.
If you have a replacement cylinder, put it into the door and turn the key. This will align the cylinder with the carriage which is typically on the outside of the lock. Then, loosen the set screws, which should be only a couple of turns into the head. If there is a screw at the edge of the case, which holds the door, you will need to loosen it.
You can replace the cylinder that was used to lock your old lock with the new one by slipping it into the case and tightening the set screws. Reinstalling the piece that connects the cylinder to a lock indicator stem is also important. This can be done by pulling three small tabs in the back of the cylindrical with needle-nosed pliers. Then, you'll be able to attach the remaining smaller bracket to the back of the cylinder. Then, you should reinstall the strike plate and latch plate, along with the retaining rings connected to the top of the lock cylinder.
Installing a new lock
Start by measuring the door's width if are replacing an existing lock. Most locksets for residential use have a thickness of 1 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches. If Repair My Windows And Doors is more thick it will require a door kit that is thick and includes longer screws, longer tail pieces (for door knobs) or spindle extension (for deadbolts).
Most locks come equipped with a detailed installation guide to help you. Before you begin, go through the instructions to ensure that you've followed all the steps. The manual will also give you an idea of the level of skill required to perform the task. It is possible to ask a friend who has experience changing locks for assistance if you are changing locks for the first time.
Before installing the new lock it's an excellent idea to put cover the holes with tape the old hardware. This will prevent the screws from slipping through the holes and will also protect any tiles you have installed. It will also prevent any potential damage from rust, dirt, and grime. SECURAM Touch comes with a strip of painter's tape designed to be used for this purpose, however you can also use gaffer's or masking tape if you have it available.
Once you've removed the screws holding the interior half of the lock section to the outside side, pull it straight away. It is important to do this quickly to prevent the lock from closing accidentally and damaging the mechanism.
If your new lock is equipped with an latch bolt, install the new bolt into its upper cross bore. Make sure to place it in the correct position, which is indicated by an arrow. Then, slide the latch plate onto the bolt and screw it into place.
Finally, screw the deadbolt and strike plate to the door jamb. Test the deadbolt by throwing it a several times to make sure that it is extended all the way through the strike plate and is completely secured. Follow the directions included in your electronic smart lock to program it. This requires downloading an application, registering your e-mail address, confirming your identity and connecting to the wireless network to add your device.