How to Do a Door Lock Change
The change of your door lock is an easy and affordable way to improve the security of your home. However, the procedure isn't for all. It requires a certain amount of patience and skill.
You must replace the cylinder that is located inside the knob's body. The cylinder is responsible for recognizing the key as it is inserted in the lock.
Removing the old lock
The first step in replacing the door lock is to take out the old one. It is a fairly easy process, but you should keep some things in mind. Make sure your new lock fits your door. This will ensure that it fits securely and does not leave a gap around the deadbolt plug or latch.
After you've removed the latch plate look for two bolts or screws on the inside of the casing that hold the casing and the halves of the lock. Unscrew them using a screwdriver, then remove the lock from the door. If you are using a mortise locking system there is an anchor screw that connects the handle to the spindle. Take off the doorknobs by removing this screw using the help of a screwdriver.
Remove the deadbolt and latch plug from the door jamb. Install the new lock. If you are replacing a mortise lock you should also determine the distance between the lock case and the edge of your door to ensure that the new lock will fit.
It is possible to replace your lock for a variety reasons, including the possibility that someone else is holding the key or if you've got new roommates. In any event, you could save money by removing the lock yourself, rather than hiring an expert to remove it. It's much simpler than most people imagine and can be accomplished in a matter of a few minutes.
Start by removing the handle and trim from the door. With a flat screwdriver pry off the trim. You should be able twist off the majority of it. In some instances you may be able remove the handles completely. The next step is to look for a hole on the inside of the handle, and insert a straightened clip into it. This will activate the release mechanism and allow you to take the handle from the door. The next step is to look at the inside of the lock to find a small tab and press it using a screwdriver that is flat. After the spindle is removed, you can remove the housing and cylinder.
Selecting a new lock
When it comes to choosing the right lock for your home, you have many options. Think about the various kinds of locks and select one that fits the style of your door. Take into consideration the backset which is the distance between the edge and the middle of lock hole. Also, think about the cross bore, a small hole in the middle of your door frame. Choose a lock that fits the door's thickness and swing.
Most door locks have been graded by BHMA and the American National Standards Institute to give you an idea of how they will withstand use and how difficult they are to pick or disable. A grade 3 lock may be perfect for a quiet apartment complex in a rural area, whereas locks that are grade 1 may be more appropriate for an area with a lot of traffic, such as an open-air storefront.
Most smart door locks require a digital code to open. If you're worried about hacking or other security issues seek out a professional locksmith or your local police department for advice.
Replacing the cylinder
If the cylinder of your door lock is broken or damaged you can repair it in just a few minutes with a simple do-it-yourself project. The key is to select the right cylinder and follow the steps that come with it. The first step is to take off the knob or handle, if there is one then loosen the trim around the base of the lock cylinder with the help of a screwdriver. Once the trim has been removed, you will be able to access the screws that hold the cylinder in place and remove them with a flathead screwdriver. The cylinder can then be gently lifted out of the door.
Be sure to take measurements of the length of the new cylinder before installing it. Take a measurement of the distance from the center to the left and right sides of the cylinder with the aid of a tape measure. Purchase a new cylinder which has the same measurements. This will stop cylinders from snapping when the door is hit or the key is stuck inside.
Once you have a suitable replacement cylinder, put it in the door and turn the key. This will ensure that the cylinder is in alignment with the carrier, which is normally located on the outside of the lock. Then, loosen the set screws which should be just a couple of turns inside the head. more tips here will also need to loosen the screw at the door's edge that holds the case in place, should there be one.
You can replace the lock cylinder you have used with a new one by slipping it into the case and tightening the set screws. It is also recommended to reinstall the part that connects the cylinder with the lock indicator stem that you can do by pulling up three tabs on the back of the cylinder using needle-nose pliers. Attach the bracket that is smaller to the back of the cylinder. Then, you must put back in the strike plate and latch plate, as well as the retaining ring attached to the top of the lock cylinder.
Installing the new lock
If you're replacing an existing lock, you must begin by measuring the width of your door. The majority of residential locksets are designed for a door thickness of 1 3/8 - 3/4 inch. If your door is thicker you will require an extra-thick door kit that includes longer screws, an extended tail piece (for door knobs) or spindle extensions (for deadbolts).
Most locks come with detailed instruction manual to assist you in installing the new hardware. Before beginning, you must read the instructions to ensure you've followed all the steps. The manual will give you a clear idea of the amount of skill that is required to complete the task. You may want to ask a person who has experience changing locks for assistance if you are changing locks for the first time.
It's a good idea to cover the holes in the old hardware before installing the new lock. This will keep the screws from slipping out of the holes and will protect any tiles you might have installed in the area. It also protects against potential damage from rust, grime, dirt and. SECURAM Touch includes the masking strip or gaffer tape. However, you can use any tape you have.
After you have removed the screws holding the inside of the lock section to the outside side then pull it out straight away. It's important to do this swiftly so that the lock doesn't end up closing itself in a way that could end up damage the mechanism.
If the new lock comes with an internal latch bolt, insert the new bolt into the upper cross bore. Make sure that you put it in the correct place as indicated by an arrow on the faceplate. Then, slide the latch plate over the bolt and secure it in the correct position.
Screw the deadbolt to the jamb on the door. Try the deadbolt a few times by throwing it to make sure it extends into the strike plate. If you're using an electronic smart lock, make certain to follow the instructions for programming it. This involves downloading an app, registering your e-mail address, verifying your identity and connecting to the wireless network to connect your device.