How to Do a Door Lock Change
Change your door lock is an easy and affordable way to improve the security of your home. However, this procedure is not for everyone. It requires a certain amount of patience and expertise.
The cylinder is contained within the knob body. The cylinder is responsible for recognizing the key as it is inserted into the lock.
Remove the old lock
The first step is to remove the lock you have been using for a while. It's a fairly simple process, but there are some things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the lock you choose to install is the correct size for the door you have. This will ensure that it fits securely and does not create a gap around the latch or deadbolt plug.
After you have removed the latch plate, look for two screws or bolts on the inside of the casing, which connect the casing and halves of the lock. Remove these screws with a screwdriver before removing the lock from the door. If you have a mortise lock, there may be a set screw at the base of the handle that holds it to the spindle. Use a screwdriver to unscrew this screw, then remove the doorknobs.
You must also take the deadbolt and latch plug from the hole in the door jamb. Then, you can install your new lock. If you're replacing a mortise you should determine the distance between your lock's case and the door edge to ensure that the new lock will fit.
It is possible to replace your lock for various reasons, for instance, the possibility that someone else is holding the key or you've a new roommate. In any event, you can save money by taking the lock off yourself, rather than hiring an expert to remove it. It's much easier than people think and can be completed in a matter of minutes.
Start by removing the trim and handle from the door. With a flat screwdriver, remove the trim. You should be able to twist off the majority of it. In some instances, you may even be able to take off the handles completely. Next, examine the handle for a small pinhole on the inside and insert a straightened paper clip into it. This will activate the release mechanism and allow you to remove the handle from the door. The next step is to look at the inside of the lock for a small tab and press it using a flat screwdriver. Once the spindle has been removed, you can take off the cylinder and housing.
The process of selecting a new lock
When it comes to selecting the right lock for your home there are a lot of options. Think about the various kinds of locks and select one that fits the design of your door. Think about the backset (the distance between the door's edge and the center of the hole in the lock) and the cross bore (small hole in the frame of the door frame). Also, be sure to select a lock that is able to fit the door thickness and swing.
The majority of door locks have been graded by BHMA and the American National Standards Institute to give you an idea of how well they stand up to use and how difficult they are to pick or disable. A grade 3 lock might be the best choice for a peaceful suburban apartment complex, whereas a grade 1 lock might hold up better to the traffic at a busy storefront on a busy city street.
Most smart door locks require a digital code to open. If you are worried about hacking, or other security issues, talk to a professional locksmith.
Replace the cylinder
If the cylinder of your door lock is broken or damaged, you can replace it in a matter of minutes using a simple DIY project. The key is to choose the right cylinder and follow the directions that come with it. The first step is to take off the knob or handle, if there is one and then remove the trim around the base of the lock cylinder with a screwdriver. After the trim is removed, it is possible to remove the screws that hold the cylinder in place using a flathead. The cylinder is then gently removed out of the door.
Before installing the new cylinder, make sure that it is the correct length for your door. Measure the distance from the center to the left and right sides of the cylinder using the aid of a tape measure. Then, buy another cylinder that has the same measurements. This will stop cylinders from snapping when doors are kicked or the key becomes stuck inside.
Once you have a suitable replacement cylinder, put it into the door and turn the key. This will align the cylinder with the carrier which is typically on the outside of your lock. After that, you can loosen the set screw that should be just a few turns inside the head. If there is a screw located on the exterior of the case that holds the door, you will need to remove it.
You can replace the old lock cylinder with a new one by sliding it into the case and tightening the set screws. Reinstalling the piece that connects the cylinder to an indicator stem for a lock is also crucial. This can be done by pulling three tabs in the back of the cylindrical using needle-nosed pliers. Attach the smaller bracket to the back of the cylinder. Then, you should install 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
If you're replacing an old lock, you should start by measuring the width of your door. Most locksets for residential use come with a thickness of 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches. If your door is thicker it will require a thick door kit that includes longer screws, an extended tail piece (for door knobs) or spindle extension (for deadbolts).
Most locks come with comprehensive instruction booklet that will assist you in installing the new hardware. Be sure to read the instructions thoroughly prior to beginning the process to ensure that you've followed all of the necessary steps. The booklet will also give you an idea of the degree of skill required to complete the task. If upvc window lock mechanism replacement changing a lock for the first time, you may need to seek out an experienced person for help.
It's a great idea to tape the openings in the old lock before installing the new lock. This will stop the screws from falling out of the holes and safeguard any tile you may have put in the area. It also shields your tiles from any damage caused by rust, dirt and grime. SECURAM Touch includes an ad-hoc strip of masking tape or gaffer tape. However, you can make use of any tape you have.
After taking off the screws that connect the lock's interior half to the exterior then take the lock off immediately. It's crucial to do this swiftly to prevent the lock from accidentally closing itself and damaging the mechanism.
Install the new latch bolt in the upper cross bore of the new lock if it has one. Make sure you place it in the correct position that is usually indicated by an indication on the faceplate. Then, screw the latch plate onto the bolt.
Finally, screw the deadbolt and strike plates to the door jamb. Test the deadbolt by throwing it a few times to verify that it is extended all the way to the strike plate and is completely secure. If you're using an electronic smart lock, be sure to follow the instructions to program it. This involves downloading an app and creating an email address, confirming your identity, then accessing the wireless network to connect your device.