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 usually a good idea to replace the locks. These signs can include issues with turning the lock or the lock not fitting a key. fit.
Fortunately, putting in new hardware for your door locks is surprisingly easy. All you need to do is follow these steps.
Deadbolt
The deadbolt is the door's primary defense against forced entry. It is more durable and secure than the latch that activates the lock, so you'll need to ensure the deadbolt you purchase is sturdy enough for your needs. If you can, select the deadbolt made of case hardened steel that doesn't have exposed screwheads on the outside to stop drilling by anyone else. To ensure security, the interior side of your deadbolt must be drilled into the door frame.
During installation, make sure that the bolt on your new deadbolt is extending smoothly through the strike plate when you shut and lock the doors. If not, you can mortise the bolt in the strike plate with a wood chisel, and then install the deadbolt. When you close and lock your door, ensure that the latch of the doorknob matches the deadbolt's hole.
Before installing the new deadbolt, make sure that it is the same size of the old one. The majority of door locks include a template showing how far the bolt should be above the doorknob. However, it's always best to consult an expert in hardware for advice if you're not sure what backset size you require for your doors. They'll be able to direct you to models that are compatible with your door and deadbolt opening.
After you've confirmed that your new bolt assembly is of the correct length, insert it into the hole in the door. Screw the latch faceplate in the hole if the new deadbolt is equipped with one. It's also a good idea for you to screw the latch faceplate using the recommended screws to the frame.
Some lock sets include some lock sets have a "dummy" or decorative bolt that allows you to install the deadbolt with a key and still have a functional latch. If you have this option the dummy bolt must be installed using the same screws that are used for your faceplate for your latch and it is essential to ensure that both bolts fit in a secure way to ensure maximum security.
Some deadbolts have one cylinder that is only accessible from the inside using a thumb-turn, while others have a double cylinder which allows keyed and unkeyed entry. It is recommended to select a lock that's commercial grade for the highest security. They are tested to withstand 250,000 cycles of closing and opening before being sold to homeowners.
Latch
The latch is the part that retracts the bolt whenever you shut or open the door. It's usually secured by screws that are located on the side of the lock, but it could also be fixed to the strike plate or the inside of the door jamb. It is essential to replace a door latch with the correct one that matches your current hardware. You can verify this by putting the latch next to your existing hardware, or look at the label of a replacement. Dunn Lumber carries a variety of brands, but it's best to use the same brand as your existing hardware to ensure that you get a latch that will fit properly.
Some doors feature a hasp instead of a latch. A hasp is a strap with a slot it that allows it to be placed over the staple. The staple is then fixed to the door frame or door using a nail. When the door is closed, the strap pulls down on the staple and locks in the frame. Commercial buildings utilize a hasp because it is less expensive than a lock.
Locks are susceptible to wear and tear over time like any other mechanism that has moving parts. Sometimes, the internal mechanism may begin to "stick" and become difficult to turn, requiring to replace the entire lockset. Sometimes, the exterior handle or doorknob will break, and it is necessary to replace it too.
If your lock is squeezing, you can try using some graphite inside the keyhole. You can either squirt some on the key or rub it onto the interior side of the lock, then use the lock a few times to work the graphite into the mechanism. You can also remove the knob with an screwdriver, which will expose all the parts and let you see what is happening inside.
After removing the knobs, tighten the two or three 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 come with an additional set of cylinder setscrews on the back of the case, which must be removed, as well as the cover plate.
Strike Plate
The strike plate acts as a reinforcement and upgrade to the locking system. It is attached to the holes that are used for deadbolts or master key systems bolts. It keeps intruders out by ensuring that the latch of the lock is secured in the strike plate when the latch or bolt is engaged. In addition to enhancing security, a good strike plate can also increase the durability of a lock.
Standard strike plates are flat metal plates with holes, or several holes cut into them. It is secured, typically with screws, onto the frame of a doorway to provide the latch with a place to sink into when it is closed. The strike plate has to be precisely aligned with the lockset to ensure maximum protection against burglaries.
If the strike plate of the door is damaged, you must replace it as soon as possible. This will ensure that your door can close and latch properly. The first step when replacing a strike plate is to ensure that it is properly aligned with the bolt hole inside the doorjamb. One way to check this is to put a piece of tape in the bolt hole. Then, test the latch by opening and closing the door. If the latch doesn't catch, remove the tape. Then chisel the area to ensure that the strike plate is flush with the doorjamb.
After the area has been chiseled it is crucial to use a longer bolt to fix the strike plate. They should be at least 3 inches long in order to ensure they are securely anchored into a stud that is behind the trim board. If you don't use the screws that are longer, the doorjamb's wooden frame could split during a kickin attack by an burglar, leaving the door vulnerable.
A professional locksmith can quickly replace a strike plate that has been damaged or worn. They can also install 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 and its appearance. This can help property owners attract tenants who are looking for a safer living environment and more peace of mind.
Keys
The key cylinder is a part of your lock that accepts a particular key that allows pins to be moved into place so the inner handle can be turned. The key cylinder is also the most important part of your door lock because it carries out the function that locks were created to protect you, your family members and your belongings. Rekeying locks is a economical option than replacing them.
replacement upvc door locks is more complicated to replace locks than to change the handle and deadbolt. The old hardware, cylinder and handle (if you have a knob and lock combination) must be removed from the door before a new lock can be installed. There are numerous DIY-friendly tools that can be used to replace the door lock. However, it is best to contact a locksmith to ensure the job is done properly.
It is important that you have the correct key before you install your new lock and cylinder. A duplicate key won't function properly and may even cause the lock to fail, making it impossible for you to open. A professional can help prevent this from happening by ensuring that you have a an authentic, functioning key for your house.
The next step is to remove the faceplate and latch plate. To remove the screws holding them in place, you will need a screwdriver. If the new plates are going to be identical to the original ones, you might want to keep them in place to speed up the process. If you must replace them, be careful not to tighten too much the screws because doing so can affect their grip on the door.
After you have removed the plates, you will have to determine the proper measurement for the new lock. While most modern locksets can fit a standard thickness of door, it's best to know the dimensions of your door prior to installation to avoid any confusion when you go to the hardware store. You should also be aware that doorknob locksets can be different sizes from deadbolt locksets, and commercial models can come with a slightly larger bolt or latch.