Door Lock Replacement - What You Need to Know
If the locks on your door begin to begin to show signs of wear and tear, it's recommended to replace them. These signs include things like having trouble turning the lock, or having a key that doesn't fit.
It is simple to install new door hardware. You only need to follow these steps.
Deadbolt
The deadbolt is the main security for your door against forced entry. It is stronger and more secure than the latch that opens the lock, so you'll want to make sure the deadbolt you purchase is sturdy enough for your needs. If possible, look for a deadbolt that's made with case hardened steel and has no screw heads exposed on the outside to stop drilling that isn't authorized. To enhance security, the interior side of the deadbolt should be secured to the door frame.
During the installation process make sure that your new deadbolt's bolt slides smoothly into the strike plate after you lock and close the door. If not, mortise the bolt in the strike plate using the help of a wood chisel before you install the deadbolt. Make sure that the doorknob's latch is in contact with the hole for the deadbolt when you close and lock the door, too.
Check whether the new deadbolt is compatible with the old one before installing it. The majority of door locks include an illustration of how high the bolt should be placed above the doorknob. However, it is always recommended to speak with an expert in the field for advice if you're not sure what backset size you require for your doors. They can guide you to models that will work with your door and the existing deadbolt opening.
Install the bolt assembly into the door hole after ensuring that it is the right length. If your new deadbolt is equipped with a latch faceplate, screw it into place, too. It's an excellent idea for you to attach the faceplate using the screws recommended to the frame.
Some lock sets have some lock sets have a "dummy" or decorative bolt, which allows you to put in the keyed deadbolt and still have a functioning latch. If you're able to choose to use a dummy bolt, it should be installed using the same screws that are used to install the faceplate for the latch. This will give you the best security.
Some deadbolts can only be opened by thumb-turn from the inside and others have two cylinders that allow both keyed and unkeyed access. It is recommended to select a lock that is commercial grade for the highest security. They're tested to withstand up to 250,000 cycles of opening and closing before being sold to homeowners.
Latch
The latch is the part that retracts the bolt when you shut or open the door. It's usually secured by screws that are located on the side of the lock, however it could also be fixed to the strike plate or the inside of the jamb. It is essential to replace the door latch with the correct one that matches your existing hardware. You can check by putting the latch up to your existing hardware or look at the label of the replacement. Dunn Lumber offers a wide variety of brands. However, it is best to choose the same brand that matches your existing hardware. This will ensure that the latch you purchase will fit correctly.
Certain doors come with a hasp instead of a latch. A hasp is a piece of strap that has a slot in it to fit over a staple. The staple is then nailed to the door frame or door using the help of a nail. When the door is closed the strap pulls back on the staple and locks it into place. Hasps are typically employed in commercial buildings since it's cheaper than a deadbolt.
Like all mechanisms with moving parts, a lock can wear out from repeated use over time. Sometimes, the internal mechanism may "stick" or become difficult to turn. This will require the replacement of the entire lockset. Sometimes, the doorknob on the outside will be damaged and it is important to replace it too.
If your lock is stuck it is possible to try using some graphite in the keyhole. You can either dust it or squirt it on the key, then turn the lock a couple of times to incorporate the graphite. You can also employ a screwdriver for the removal of the knob and reveal the inside components and let you be able to see what's happening inside.
After taking the knobs off and tightening the two or three screws on the outside of the cylinder by turning them clockwise. The faceplate needs to be removed and replaced. Surface-mounted rimlocks have an additional set of cylinder screws on the back of the case that must be removed, as well as the faceplate.
Strike Plate
front door locks replacement is a way to strengthen and upgrade to the locking system. It is affixed to the holes that are used for deadbolts or master key systems bolts. It keeps intruders at bay by ensuring that the latch of the lock is secured in the plate when the bolt is engaged. Apart from enhancing security, a top-quality strike plate can also enhance the longevity of a lock.
Standard strike plates are flat plates made of metal with holes, or a series of holes, cut into them. It is affixed to the door frame typically using screws, which gives the latch something to sink into when it closes. The strike plate has to be aligned precisely with the lockset to provide the greatest protection against burglaries.
If the strike plate of the door is damaged you must replace it as soon as you can. This will ensure that the door can close and latch properly. To replace a strikeplate, first check that it is aligned with the bolthole in the doorjamb. This can be accomplished by placing a piece of adhesive tape over the bolt hole and then attempting to test the latch. If the latch doesn't catch, remove the tape and chisel out the area to ensure that the strike plate will be in line with the doorjamb.
After the area has been chiseled it is crucial to use a stronger bolt to anchor the strike plate. These should be at least three inches long to ensure that they are securely fixed to a stud in the trim board. If you do not install the screws that are longer, the wood in the doorjamb could split during a kickin attack by a burglar, making the door vulnerable.
A professional locksmith is able to quickly replace the strike plate that has become worn or damaged. They can also put an entirely new strike plate on the door that hasn't had one before. They can also modify existing strikeplates to enhance the security of a building and its appearance. This can help a property owner draw in tenants looking for a safe living space and peace of mind.
Keys
The key cylinder is a part of your lock that accepts a specific key to move pins into place so that the inner handle can be turned. The key cylinder is the most crucial element of your door lock as it performs the purpose for which locks were designed to protect you, your family members, and your possessions. Rekeying locks is a cost-effective alternative to replacing them.
The process of replacing a lock is more complex than simply swapping out the existing handle-lock combo or deadbolt. Changing the entire lock requires taking the old cylinder and hardware from the door (including the handle if you have a knob-lock combo) and putting a brand new one in its place. While there are plenty of DIY-friendly tools that you can use to change a lock yourself, it is recommended that you consult a skilled locksmith to ensure the job is done properly.
It is important that you have the correct key before you can install your new lock and cylinder. A duplicate key won't work properly and could cause the lock to fail which makes it impossible to open. A professional can help prevent this by ensuring you have an authentic, functioning key for your house.
Next, you will need to remove the faceplate and latch plate. You will require an screwdriver to take out the screws which hold them in place. You may want to leave them in place if the new plates are similar to the originals. This will help you save time. If you must replace them, make sure not to overtighten the screws as this could affect their grip on the door.
After you have removed the plates, you will need to measure for the new lock. While most modern locksets can fit on a standard thickness of door, it's important to know the dimensions of your door in advance to avoid any confusion when you arrive at the hardware store. It is also important to be aware that doorknob locksets can differ in size from deadbolt locksets. Commercial models can have an enlarged bolt or latch.