How to Do a Door Lock Change
Door lock replacement is an easy and inexpensive method to increase your home's security. The process is not for all. It requires a certain amount of patience and skill.
You must replace the cylinder, which is located inside the knob's body. The cylinder is responsible for recognizing the key when it is inserted into the lock.
The old lock can be removed
The first step is to remove the old lock. It's a relatively straightforward process, however you must keep certain things in your mind. Make sure upvc window replacement lock is compatible with your door. This will ensure that it fits properly and doesn't leave a gap around the latch or deadbolt plug.
After you have removed the latch plate, you will have to look for two bolts or screws on the inside of the casing which are holding the casing to the two halves of the lock. Remove them with the help of a screwdriver, and then pull the lock out of the door. If you have a mortise locking mechanism there is a set screw that binds the handle to the spindle. Remove the doorknobs by unscrewing this screw with a screwdriver.
Take the deadbolt and latch plug from your door jamb. Then, you can install your new lock. If you are replacing a mortise lock, you must also measure the distance between the lock case and the edge of your door to ensure that the new lock will be able to fit.
Several reasons might prompt you to change your door lock, such as being concerned that someone else may have the key, or you are welcoming the arrival of a new roommate. You can save money by deciding to take the lock off yourself, instead of hiring for a professional. It's much easier than you think and can be done in a matter of minutes.
Remove the trim and handle from your door. Then, pull the trim away using a screwdriver that is flat. You will be able to pull off most of it, and in some instances the handles may fall off completely. The next step is to look for a pinhole on the inside of the handle, and insert straightened clips into it. This will trigger the release mechanism, which allows you to remove the handle. Next, examine the inside of the lock for another small tab, and then press it with a flat screwdriver. Once the spindle has been removed, you are able to remove the housing and cylinder.
The process of selecting a new lock
You have many options when it comes to selecting the right lock. Take a look at various kinds of locks, and choose one that is compatible with your door's style. Consider the backset (the distance between the edge of the door and the center of the hole in the lock) and the cross bore (small hole along the edge of the door frame). Select a lock that will fit the door's thickness and the swing.
The majority of door locks have been graded by BHMA and the American National Standards Institute to give you an idea of how they are able to withstand the rigors of use and how difficult to pick or disable. A grade 3 lock may be a good choice for a tranquil suburban apartment complex, whereas a grade 1 lock might stand up to the traffic at a busy storefront on a busy city street.
Most smart door locks require a digital code to open. If you're concerned about hacking or other security issues, consult with a professional locksmith or your local police department for advice.
Replacing the cylinder
If the cylinder of your door lock is broken or damaged it can be replaced in just a few minutes by completing a do-it-yourself project. The key is to select the right cylinder, and follow the directions that come with it. The first step is to remove the knob or handle, should there be one and then remove the trim around the base of the lock cylinder with the aid of a screwdriver. After the trim has been removed, it is possible to remove the screws that hold the cylinder in place using the flathead. The cylinder can then be gently lifted out of the door.
Before you install the new cylinder, be sure that it is the correct length for your door. Take a measurement of the distance from the center to the left and right sides of the cylinder using the aid of a tape measure. Purchase a new cylinder that has the same measurements. This will stop cylinders from snapping when the door is kicked or the key becomes stuck inside.
If you have a suitable replacement cylinder, place it in the door and turn the key. This will ensure that the cylinder is in alignment with the carrier, which is typically located on the outside of the lock. Then, you can loosen the set screw that should be just a few turns in the head. If there is a screw on the outside of the case, which holds the door, you'll need to loosen it.
You can replace the old lock cylinder with a new one by inserting it into the case and tightening the set screws. Installing the part that connects the cylinder to a lock indicator stem is also important. It is done by pulling three tabs at the back of the cylindrical using needle-nosed pliers. Then, you can attach the remaining smaller bracket to the back of the cylinder. Then, you need to install the strike plate and latch plate as well as the retaining ring attached to the top of the lock the cylinder.
Installing a new lock
If you're replacing an old lock, you must begin by taking measurements of the width of the door. The majority of residential locksets have a thickness of 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches. If your door is more thick it will require an extra-thick door kit that includes longer screws and a longer tail piece (for door knobs) or spindle extensions (for deadbolts).
Most locks come with comprehensive instruction booklet that will guide you through the installation of the new hardware. Before beginning, you must read the instructions to make sure you've followed the steps. The booklet will give you a clear idea of the amount of skill that is required to finish the task. If you're changing a lock for the first time, you may want to ask an experienced person for help.
Before installing the new lock it's an excellent idea to put cover the openings with tape the old hardware. This will stop screws from falling through the holes and will also protect any tiles you may have installed. It will also protect your tiles from damage caused by dirt, rust and grime. SECURAM Touch comes with a piece of painter's tape designed to be used for this purpose, however you can also use gaffer's tape as well as masking tape if you have it available.
Once you've removed the screws holding the inside of the lock section to the exterior side then pull it out straight away. It's important to do this quickly to avoid the lock from accidentally closing on itself and harming the mechanism.
If the new lock comes with an latch bolt, install the new latch bolt into its upper cross bore. Make sure that you place it in the proper position, which is marked by an arrow. Then, place the latch plate over the bolt and screw it into the correct position.
Screw the deadbolt to the jamb of the door. Test the deadbolt a few times, throwing it around to see if it extends into the strike plate. Follow the instructions that come with your electronic smart lock to program it. This involves downloading an application, entering your email address, confirming your identity, and then connecting to the wireless network to add your device.