Door Lock Replacement - What You Need to Know
When the locks on your door begin to show signs of wear and tear, it's generally an ideal time to replace the locks. These indicators include experiencing difficulty turning the lock, or having a key that isn't fitting.
Fortunately, putting in new hardware for your door locks is surprisingly easy. All you have to do is follow these steps.
Deadbolt
The deadbolt is the main security for your door against forced entry. It is more durable and secure than the latch that activates the lock. Therefore, you'll be sure that the deadbolt you choose to purchase is compatible with your needs. If possible, choose deadbolts made of case-hardened steel that doesn't have visible screwheads on its exterior to stop drilling by anyone else. To ensure security, the inside of your deadbolt should be mortised into the door frame.
During the installation process make sure that your new deadbolt's bolt extends smoothly into the strike plate when you shut and lock the door. If not, you can mortise the bolt in the strike plate with a wood chisel and then install the deadbolt. When you lock and close your door, make sure that the latch of the doorknob matches the deadbolt's hole.
Before you install your new deadbolt, ensure that it matches the size of the previous one. The majority of door locks include an example of how far the bolt should be above the doorknob. However, it is always best to consult an expert in the field in case you aren't sure of the backset measurement you need for your doors. They can guide you to models that will work with your doors and the existing deadbolt opening.
Install the bolt assembly into the door hole after ensuring it's the right length. If your new deadbolt has an opening faceplate, you can screw it into the frame, too. It's a good idea attach the latch faceplate to the frame using the recommended screws as well.
Some lock sets come with an attractive or "dummy" bolt, which allows you to use the keyed-deadbolt, while having a functional latch. If you're able to use this feature, a dummy bolt should be installed using the same screws as your faceplate of the latch and it's crucial that the two fit together properly for maximum security.
Some deadbolts are only accessible via a thumb-turn from inside some have two cylinders that allow both keyed and non-keyed access. It is best to select an item that's commercial grade for maximum security. They've been tested to withstand 250,000 cycles of closing and opening before they are sold to homeowners.
Latch
The latch is the part that retracts the bolt when you shut or open the door. It is usually secured with screws on the side but it could be affixed to the strike plate of the door jamb. When replacing a door lock it is essential to ensure that you purchase the correct one that matches your existing hardware. You can either put the latch up against the existing hardware or look up the label on a replacement. Dunn Lumber carries a variety of brands, but it's generally best to stick with the same brand as your existing hardware to ensure that you purchase an appropriate latch that fits perfectly.
Certain doors come with a hasp instead of a latch. A hasp is straps with slots punched into it that can be placed over a staple. The staple is then fastened to the door or door frame with a nail. When the door is shut, the strap pulls down on the staple and locks into the position. A hasp is usually used in commercial buildings because it's cheaper than a deadbolt.
Locks wear out over time, just like any other mechanism that has moving parts. Sometimes, similar website can start to "stick" and become difficult to turn, making it necessary to replace the entire lockset. Sometimes, the doorknob or handle may break, and it is necessary to replace it as well.
If your lock is stuck, you can use some graphite inside the keyhole. You can either dust it or spray it onto the key, then turn the lock a couple of times to work in the graphite. You can also remove the knob with the help of a screwdriver. This will reveal all the components and allow you to observe what's happening inside.
Once you've removed the knobs, look for the cylinder's two or three setscrews on the outside of the cylinder. Then tighten the screws by turning counterclockwise. You should also remove the faceplate and replace it. Surface-mounted rim locks have an additional set of cylinder setscrews on the back of the case that must be removed, as is the cover plate.
Strike Plate
The strike plate, which is attached to the door frame, above the holes that house the deadbolt or master key bolt of the system, reinforces and upgrades a locking mechanism. It helps keep intruders out by ensuring that the lock's latch is caught in the strike plate when the latch or bolt is engaged. A top-quality strikeplate can enhance the longevity of locks as well as increase security.
Standard strike plates are flat pieces of metal with a hole or several holes cut into them. It is attached to the door frame, usually with screws, which gives the latch something to sink into as it closes. The strike plate must be precisely aligned with the lockset in order to give maximum security against burglaries.
If a door's strike plate is damaged, it must be replaced as soon as is feasible to ensure that the door is able to close and latch correctly. The first step in replacing the strike plate is to ensure that it is aligned correctly with the bolt hole inside the doorjamb. An easy way to accomplish this is to lay tape over the bolt hole. Then, test the latch by opening and closing the door. If the latch does not catch, you must remove the tape and chisel out the area so that the strike plate will be flush with the doorjamb.
After the area has been chiseled, it is crucial to use a larger bolt to secure the strike plate. They should be at least 3 inches long to ensure they are anchored securely into the stud behind the trim board. If you do not install the longer screws, then the doorjamb's wood may split during a kickin attack by an burglar, leaving the door vulnerable.
A professional locksmith can swiftly replace the strike plate that has been damaged or worn out. They can also put an entirely new strike plate on doors that have never had one before. Additionally, they could upgrade existing strike plates to enhance the security of a building and enhance its aesthetics. This can aid property owners in attracting tenants who are looking for a safer living space and peace of mind.
Keys
The key cylinder in your lock is the part that accepts the key to move pins so that the internal handle can rotate. The key cylinder is also the most crucial component of your door lock because it fulfills the purpose that locks were made to perform - safeguarding you, your family and your belongings. It is for this reason that people frequently get their locks rekeyed instead of replaced.
The replacement of locks is more difficult than simply replacing the existing deadbolt or handle-lock combination. The old cylinder, hardware and handle (if you have the knob and lock combo) must be removed from the door before a new lock can be installed. Although there are a variety of DIY-friendly kits that you can use to change a lock yourself but it is highly recommended that you consult a skilled locksmith to ensure that the job is done properly.
Before you install a new cylinder and lock it is essential to have the correct key for your home. A duplicate key will not perform as expected and could cause the lock's failure, making it impossible to open. A professional can help prevent this from happening by ensuring that you have a an actual, working key for your house.
The next step is to remove the faceplate, then the latch plate. To remove the screws holding them in place, you'll require a screwdriver. 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 have to replace them, make sure you don't tighten screws too much as this could reduce their grip.
After taking off the plates, you'll need to measure for the new lock. While many contemporary locksets will be able to fit a standard width of door, it is best to know the dimensions of your door in advance to avoid any confusion when you go to the hardware store. Doorknob locksets tend to be different sizes than deadbolt locks and commercial models may have a larger bolt or latch.