How to Do a Door Lock Change

Changing your door lock is a simple and inexpensive method to increase the security of your home. The process is not for everyone. It requires a certain amount of patience and skill.

The cylinder is located within the knob's body. The cylinder is what recognizes the key when it's placed into the lock.

Take off the lock that was previously used.

First, remove the old lock. This is a relatively simple process, however there are a few points to remember. Make sure that the new lock fits the door. This will ensure that it fits securely and doesn't leave a gap around the deadbolt plug or latch.

After you have removed the latch plate, you'll be required to search for two screws or bolts on the inside of the casing that are holding the casing to the lock halves. Take these screws off using the help of a screwdriver, and then remove the lock out of the door. If you have a mortise lock there might be a set screw located at the base of the handle that holds it to the spindle. Remove the doorknobs by unscrewing this screw using the help of a screwdriver.

You should also take the deadbolt and latch plug from the hole in the door jamb. Install your new lock. If you are replacing a mortise lock you should also measure the distance between the lock case and the edge of your door to ensure that your new lock will be able to fit.

Many reasons could cause you to replace the door lock, for instance suspecting that someone else has the key or welcoming an incoming roommate. You could save money if you remove the lock yourself instead of hiring an expert. The process is simpler than many people think, and it can be completed in just a few minutes.

Begin by taking the handle and trim from the door. With a flat screwdriver, pry off the trim. You should be able twist off the majority of it. In certain cases, you may even be able remove the handles completely. Next, examine the handle for a tiny pinhole on the interior side and insert a straightened paper clip into it. This will activate the release mechanism and allow you to take the handle from the door. Then, look on the inside of the lock for another small tab that you can press using a flat screwdriver. Once the spindle is removed, you can remove the cylinder and housing.

Making a choice for a new lock

When it comes time to pick a new lock there are a lot of choices. Consider the different types of locks and pick one that is in keeping with the style of your door. Consider the backset (the distance between the door's edge 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 is suitable for the door thickness and the swing.

Most door locks are graded by BHMA and the American National Standards Institute to provide you with an idea of how well they will withstand use and how difficult to disable or pick. A grade 3 lock might be a good choice for a tranquil suburban apartment complex, whereas the grade 1 lock may be more able to withstand the traffic at a busy store front on a city street.

Most smart door locks require a digital code to open. If you are worried about hacking, or any other security concerns, consult an expert locksmith.

Replacing the cylinder

If the cylinder of your door lock is damaged or broken you can repair it within a matter of minutes with a simple do-it-yourself project. It is essential to choose the right cylinder and follow the instructions. First, take off the handle or knob if it is present. Then with a screwdriver remove the trim that is around the lock cylinder. Once the trim has been removed, you will be able to access the screws that keep the cylinder in place and remove them using a flathead screwdriver. The cylinder is then gently pulled from the door.

Before installing the new cylinder, you must make sure that it's the right length for your door. With a tape measure, determine the distance between the center of the cylinder and the right and left sides. Then, purchase an additional cylinder using the same measurements. This will stop cylinders from snapping when the door is kicked or the key gets stuck inside.

If you have a replacement window locks cylinder, insert it in the door and turn the key. This will align the cylinder with the carriage that is usually located on the outside of the lock. After that, you can loosen the set screw which should be just a few turns in the head. If there is a screw located on the edge of the case, which holds the door, you will need to loosen it.

After taking the lock cylinder out after which you can replace window locks it with a new lock by slipping the new cylinder into the case and tightening the set screw. You should also reinstall the piece that connects the cylinder to the lock indicator stem and this can be done by pulling up three small tabs on back of the cylinder using needle-nose pliers. Attach the bracket that is smaller to the cylinder's back. Then, you should reinstall the strike plate and latch plate, as well as the retaining ring that is connected to the top of the lock the cylinder.

Installing the new lock

Start by measuring the door's width if you are replacing window locks an existing lock. Most residential locksets are designed for doors with a thickness of 1 3/8 to 1 3/4 inch. If your door is more thick, you will need an extra-thick door kit that includes longer screws and an extended tail piece (for door lock window repairs knobs) or spindle extension (for deadbolts).

Most locks come with a detailed instruction booklet to assist you in installing the new hardware. Before you begin, read the instructions to ensure that you've followed all the steps. The manual will give you an idea of how much skill is required to complete the task. If you're changing locks for the first time, you might want to ask an experienced friend for assistance.

Before installing the new lock it's a good idea to tape over the openings of the old hardware. This will keep the screws from falling out of the holes, and will safeguard any tile you may have put in the area. This will also protect your tiles from any damage caused by rust, dirt and grime. SECURAM Touch includes a strip of masking or gaffer tape, but you can make use of any tape you have.

After taking off the screws that connect the lock's inner half to its exterior and pull the lock straight away. It is important to do this swiftly to prevent the lock from closing itself in a way that could end up damage the mechanism.

If your new double glazing window lock repair is equipped with an latch bolt, install the new latch bolt into its upper cross bore. Make sure that you place it in the right location, which is indicated by an arrow. Then, you can screw the latch plate onto the bolt.

Attach the deadbolt to the jamb on the door. Test the deadbolt by throwing it a few times to ensure that it is extended all the way into the strike plate and is fully secure. If you're using an electronic smart lock, make sure to follow the instructions to program it. This requires downloading an application and registering your e-mail address, verifying your identity, and connecting to the wireless network in order to connect your device.