Door Lock Replacement - What You Need to Know
It's a go od idea you to replace your locks when they begin to exhibit signs that they're worn out. This could be due to issues with turning the lock or having a key that doesn't fit.
Fortunately, putting in new door lock hardware is actually very easy. You only need to follow these steps.
Deadbolt
The deadbolt is the door's primary defense against forced entry. It is stronger and more secure than the latch that opens the lock. So, you will want to ensure that your new deadbolt meets your requirements. If you can, choose deadbolts that are made of case hardened steel and no exposed screw heads on the outside to prevent drilling that isn't authorized. To increase security, the inner side of your deadbolt must be mortised into the door frame.
When you install the deadbolt make sure that your new deadbolt's bolt slides smoothly into the strike plate after you shut and lock the door. If not, mortise the bolt into the strike plate using the help of a wood chisel before you install the deadbolt. When you lock and close your door, be sure that the latch of the doorknob matches the deadbolt's hole.
Make sure whether the new deadbolt is compatible with the old one prior to installing it. The majority of door locks include a template showing how far the bolt should be located above the doorknob. However, it's always recommended to consult an expert in the field for advice if you're not sure what backset measurement you need for your doors. They can guide you in the direction of models that will work with your doors and the existing deadbolt opening.
Screw the bolt assembly into the hole in the door after making sure it's the right length. Screw the latch faceplate in the hole if the new deadbolt is equipped with one. It is a good idea to fix the latch faceplate onto the frame with the recommended screws as well.
Some lock sets come with a decorative or "dummy" bolt that allows you to use the keyed-deadbolt while still having a functional latch. If you're given the option to use a dummy bolt, it should be installed using the same screws used to install the faceplate for the latch. This will give you the best security.
Some deadbolts come with only a single cylinder accessible from the inside using the thumb-turn, whereas others have a double cylinder that allows both keyed and unkeyed access. No matter which type you select, it's a good idea to purchase a commercial grade lock to ensure the highest security. They're tested to withstand 250,000 cycles of closing and opening before being sold to homeowners.
Latch
The latch is the component of the lock that retracts the bolt to open and close the door. It is usually fastened by screws on the sides however it can also be attached to the strike plate of the door jamb. It is crucial to replace the door latch with the right one for the hardware you have. You can check by putting the latch next to your existing hardware, or you can look on the label of a replacement. Dunn Lumber carries a variety of brands, however it is generally recommended to choose the same brand as your existing hardware to ensure that you receive an appropriate latch that fits properly.
Certain doors have an ahasp instead of a latch. A hasp is made up of straps with slots punched in it that fits over a staple. The staple is then fixed to the door frame or door using a nail. When the door is shut, the strap pulls down on the staple and locks it into place. Hasps are typically employed in commercial buildings since it is cheaper than deadbolts.
Like all mechanisms with moving parts, locks can wear out from frequent use over time. Sometimes the internal mechanism will start to "stick" and become difficult to turn, requiring to replace the entire lockset. Sometimes, the exterior doorknob can break and it is necessary to replace it as well.
If your lock is stuck, put some graphite in the keyhole. You can either spray some on the key or sprinkle it onto the inside of the lock, then use the lock a few times to get the graphite into the mechanism. You can also employ a screwdriver for the removal of the knob and reveal the internal components and let you see what's going on inside the.
After taking the knobs off then tighten the three or two setscrews on the edge of the cylinder by turning them clockwise. It is also recommended to remove the faceplate and replace it. Surface-mounted rim locks have an additional set of cylinder setscrews located on the back of the case, which must be removed, along with the cover plate.
Strike Plate
The strike plate, connected to the door frame above the holes to accommodate the master key or deadbolt bolt of the system, reinforces and improves the security of the locking mechanism. It assists in keeping intruders away by ensuring that the latch of the lock is caught by the strike plate when the latch or bolt is engaged. Apart from enhancing security, a high-quality strike plate can also enhance the durability of locks.
Standard strike plates are flat metal plates with holes, or a series of holes, cut into them. It is affixed to the door frame, usually using screws, which gives the latch something to sink into when it closes. The strike plate must be aligned precisely with the lockset to provide maximum security against burglaries.
If the strike plate of the door is damaged, you should replace it as soon as you can. This will ensure that your door can close and latch correctly. The first step when replacing the strike plate is to make sure that it is aligned correctly with the bolt hole in the doorjamb. This can be done by placing a piece adhesive tape over the bolt hole and then testing the latch. If the latch doesn't work, remove the tape. Then, chisel the hole to create a aligned with the doorjamb.
Once the area is cut out, it is important to use a larger screw to anchor the strike plate. They should be at least 3 inches long to ensure they are securely anchored into a stud that is behind the trim board. If you don't install the longer screws, the wood in the doorjamb could split during a robbery attack by a burglar and leave 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 doors that have never had one before. They can also modify existing strikeplates to enhance the security of a building as well as its aesthetics. This can help a property owner draw in tenants looking for a safe living environment and peace of mind.
Keys
The key cylinder is the component of your lock that takes a particular key to move pins into place so that the inner handle can be turned. The key cylinder is the primary component of your door lock as it performs the purpose that locks were made for to safeguard your family, you, and your belongings. This is the reason that people often prefer to have their locks reset instead of replaced.
It is more difficult to replace locks than to swap out the existing handle and deadbolt. Changing the entire lock requires removal of the old cylinder as well as hardware from the door (including the handle when you have a knob lock combo) and then installing a new one in its place. There are many DIY-friendly kits that can be used to replace a door lock. However, it's recommended to call a locksmith to ensure the job is done properly.
Before you can install a new cylinder and lock it is crucial to have the right key for your home. A duplicate key won't function properly and may even cause the lock's failure, making it impossible for you to open. A skilled professional can assist you in avoiding this by ensuring that you have a real, working key for your home.
Next, you will need to remove the faceplate and the latch plate. To take off the screws that hold them in place, you'll need an screwdriver. You might want to leave them in place if the plates you are replacing are identical to the original ones. 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 taking off the plates, you'll need to measure to determine the proper size of the lock. While many contemporary locksets will be able to fit a standard width of door, it is recommended to know the measurements of your door in advance to avoid a headache when you visit the hardware store. You should also be aware that doorknob locksets can be different sizes than deadbolt locksets. Commercial models may have an additional bolt or latch.