Door Lock Replacement - What You Need to Know
If the locks on your door start to begin to show signs of wear and tear, it's generally recommended to replace them. The signs could include things like difficulty turning the lock or finding a key that doesn't fit.
It is simple to install new door hardware. You only need to follow these simple steps.
Deadbolt
The deadbolt is the primary defense of your door against forced entry. It is stronger and safer than the latch which activates the lock. So, you'll be sure that the new deadbolt you purchase meets your requirements. If you can, select a deadbolt made of case-hardened steel that does not have exposed screwheads on the exterior to stop unauthorized drilling. replacement upvc door lock of the deadbolt needs to be inserted into the door frame to enhance 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 isn't, use a wood chisel to make a mortise for the bolt hole into the strike plate and install the deadbolt. When you shut and lock your door, ensure that the latch of the doorknob meets the deadbolt's hole.
Make sure whether the new deadbolt is compatible with the old one prior to installing it. Most door locks come with a template that tells you how far over the doorknob the bolt should be, but it's best to talk to an expert at an hardware store if you're not sure what backset measurement is suitable for your doors. They will be able point you to models that work with your door and deadbolt opening.
Screw the bolt assembly into the door hole, after making sure it's the right length. Screw the latch faceplate into place if your new deadbolt is equipped with one. It's a good idea attach the latch faceplate to the frame with the recommended screws, and also.
Some lock sets include some lock sets have a "dummy" or decorative bolt so you can install the keyed deadbolt and still have a working latch. If you have this option, the dummy bolt should be installed with the same screws that are used for your faceplate for your latch and it is essential to ensure that both bolts fit properly for maximum security.
Some deadbolts feature a single cylinder that's only accessible from the inside using a thumb-turn, while others have a double cylinder that allows both keyed and unkeyed access. It is recommended to select the lock that is commercial grade for maximum security. They are usually tested to withstand 250,000 cycles of opening and closing before being sold to homeowners.
Latch
The latch is the part that retracts the bolt when you open or close the door. It's usually held in place by screws that are located on the side of the lock, but it can also be attached to the strike plate or to the inside of the door jamb. When replacing a door latch it is important to ensure that you purchase the correct one that matches your existing hardware. You can either put the latch against the existing hardware or check the label on a replacement. Dunn Lumber carries a variety of brands, but it is generally recommended to choose the same brand of your existing hardware to ensure you get the latch that fits properly.
Certain doors come with a havep instead of a latch. A hasp is a piece of strap with a slot it to fit over the staple. The staple is then fixed to the door door frame with a nail. When the door is closed, the strap pulls down on the staple and locks it into place. A hasp is typically used in commercial buildings because it is less expensive than deadbolts.
Like any mechanism that has moving parts, locks can wear out from repeated use over time. Sometimes, the internal mechanism can begin to "stick" and be difficult to turn, requiring to replace the entire lockset. Sometimes, the doorknob on the outside will break and it is necessary to replace it too.
If your lock is squeezing it is possible to try using some graphite inside the keyhole. You can either spray some on the key or rub it on the inside of the lock, and then use the lock a few times to get the graphite into the mechanism. You can remove the knob using a screwdriver, which will expose all the parts and let you see what is going on inside the.
After removing the knobs, tighten the two or three setscrews at the edges of the cylinder by turning them clockwise. The faceplate should be removed and replaced. Surface-mounted rim locks include an additional set of cylinder setscrews located on the rear of the case. These must be removed, as well as the cover plate.
Strike Plate
The strike plate, attached to the door frame, above the holes that accommodate the master key or deadbolt bolt of the system, reinforces and enhances the locking mechanism. It helps keep intruders out by making sure that the latch of the lock is caught in the strike plate when the bolt or latch is engaged. In addition to increasing security, a good strike plate can also improve the longevity of locks.
Standard strike plates are flat metal plates with a hole, or several holes cut into them. It is anchored, typically by screws, to the doorway's frame to provide the latch with an area to sink into when it closes. The strike plate needs to be aligned precisely with the lockset in order to give the greatest protection against burglaries.
If the strike plate of a door is damaged, it must be replaced as soon as it is possible to ensure that the door can close and latch correctly. To replace a strikeplate, you must first ensure that it is properly aligned with the bolthole in the doorjamb. An easy way to accomplish this is to place a piece of tape in the bolt hole and then test the latch by closing and opening the door. If the latch doesn't work it, take the tape off. Then chisel it to create a aligned with the doorjamb.
After the area has been chiseled, it is vital to use a longer bolt to anchor the strike plate. These should be at least three inches long to ensure that they are securely secured to the stud that is behind the trim board. If you don't use the longer screws, the doorjamb's wooden frame may split during a kickin attack by an burglar, making 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 been fitted with them before. They can also upgrade existing strikeplates to improve the security of a building and its appearance. This can assist property owners in attracting tenants who want a safer living environment and more peace of mind.
Keys
The key cylinder is the part of your lock that accepts a particular key to move pins into position so that the internal handle can be turned. The cylinder is also the most crucial component of your door lock as it carries out the function that locks were made to perform - safeguarding you, your family members and your possessions. Rekeying locks is a more economical option than replacing them.
The process of replacing locks is more difficult than simply swapping out the existing deadbolt or handle lock. The old cylinder, hardware and handle (if you have a knob and lock combination) must be removed from the door before a new lock can be installed. While there are plenty of DIY-friendly tools that can be used to replace a lock yourself, it is recommended that you contact a skilled locksmith to ensure that the job is done properly.
Before installing a new cylinder and lock it is essential to have the right key for your house. A duplicate key will not perform as expected and could cause the lock to fail and make it impossible for you to open. A professional can prevent this from happening by ensuring that you have a an actual, working key for your home.
The next step is to take off the faceplate, then the latch plate. To take off the screws that hold them in place, you'll need the help of a screwdriver. It is possible to keep them in place if the new plates are identical to the original ones. This will save you time. If you need to replace them, make sure not to tighten too much the screws as this could affect their grip on the door.
After taking off the plates, you will need to measure to determine the proper size of the lock. While most modern locksets can fit on a standard thickness of door, it's best to know the dimensions of your door in advance to avoid a headache when you arrive at the hardware store. Be aware that doorknob locksets can be different sizes than deadbolt locksets. Commercial models may have an additional latch or bolt.