Reasons to Change Door Lock
You can change your door lock for a variety of reasons, from improving the security of your house to redecorating your entryway. You might also have to change locks if the key gets stuck or is difficult to turn.
Changing upvc windows locks repair is a simple project that even novice DIY homeowners can complete. Begin by gathering the required materials.
Remove the old lock
Removing the lock that was previously installed from the door is an essential step before installing the new one. This is especially crucial when you suspect that someone else has access to your home. It is also an excellent idea if have moved into a house and experienced a burglary or had a roommate move in. It is simpler than you think and can be completed in just a few minutes.
Start by removing the screws holding the deadbolt faceplate onto the frame of the door. To remove the faceplate, you will have to remove screws from both sides. This will allow you to see what's behind it and give you a better understanding of how to proceed with the next steps.
Once you have removed your old faceplate, you'll need to remove the bolt and strike plate. Remove the bolt from the door hole by using the screwdriver. If the bolt is rusted, you may need to use a chisel to hammer it. If you use a chisel to remove the bolt, be careful not damage the door frame.
Make sure your new deadbolt, doorknob, and lock fit in the existing holes in the door before removing the old one. The majority of hardware stores and big box stores carry several different types of locks and will help you find the right one for your needs. If the lock you purchased is not compatible with your door, send it back and ask for help.
While you are removing the old lock, look for small slits or depressions in the handle or around the trim. If you can locate them, use straightened safety pins or a flat screwdriver to release the handle.
After the screw in the handle has been removed you can now begin to remove the knob from its spindle. To do this, find the set screw at the base of the knob, and loosen. Next, you will need to remove the knob from the spindle. Finally, carefully remove the spindle from the door.
Install the new lock
It is a good idea to change the locks on the doors of your home on a regular basis, particularly in the event of a burglary or you move into a new home with roommates. It's easy, affordable and efficient to change the lock on your door. The majority of people can do it by themselves using a screwdriver, a screwdriver, and a few basic instructions. Depending on the circumstances, you may also need to learn how to rekey a door lock so that only you own the key.
To start the process, you'll have to purchase a new lock that matches the keyway on your existing lock. You can save money by choosing to modify the lock yourself. Most locksmiths charge extra to do this. You can buy a new lock from an hardware store, or on the internet. Standard deadbolts can be fitted to the majority of doors. However, you'll have to measure your door to ensure it is suitable.
The lock you purchase will usually include a template that shows you how to install it on the door. The template can be used to drill the hole. It's much simpler than measuring every time. If the template does not match your hole, take it back to the shop and get another one.
When installing the new lock, you must ensure that it is placed on the right side of the door. You can confirm this by inspecting the latch, which ought to be labeled "up" or something similar. Check that the latch is seated correctly on the latch plate, then secure it with the screws provided.
If you're replacing the knob lock on your door It's important to be aware of the type of lock you're using. Most knob locks are left-handed but there are some that are right-handed. If you are not careful, the knob could be placed on the wrong side of your door, which will hinder it from locking either from the inside or outside.
It is recommended to test the new lock after you have completed. You should be able to lock and unlock the door using keys from the inside as well as from the outside. If you aren't satisfied with the result, you can contact an expert locksmith to repair it.
Test the lock
If a lock on your door won't unlock can be a nuisance, it can also put your family's safety at risk. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix most issues with door locks by performing a bit of troubleshooting and lubrication. To start with, check whether your key has been properly cut and that the lock assembly isn't dirty or loose. If this does not solve the issue Try lubricating the door lock actuator with powdered graphite.
Check that the door lock switch, the wiring harnesses, and the actuator connector are all functioning correctly. To do this, consult the manual or wiring diagram to determine the function and color-coding of all the door lock switch wires. Then, use a test light or digital meter to see whether the door lock's actuator is receiving power and ground when the switches are turned on. If you notice the switches switch on and off with voltage it means that the switches are in good condition and the actuator is likely to need replacing.
If the switch appears to work however the actuator does not move when you turn the knob, it could be a problem with the actuator itself. The actuator cylinder is fitted with pins that are spring-loaded. They prevent the cylinder from rotating until the key is inserted which then pushes them upwards to match the height of the key in that area. Then, the cylinder to rotate and open the lock body and allow the handle to latch.
If the door lock actuator is inoperable, you can remove the switch and wires from the actuator by using small screwdrivers to loosen the locking bolt and separate the plastic cover that holds the electrical connector. Then disconnect the door lock actuator and let it fall. You should be able to locate the two bolts in 10mm that hold the actuator in place, and remove them. After the actuator is removed then you can disconnect the black electrical connector.
Replace the key
If you own keys for your deadbolt or door knob, if it is not working properly you need to either rekey the lock or replace it completely. This isn't difficult and will save you money. But, before doing this, it's recommended to have a locksmith examine the locks and look for any problems. This will give peace of assurance that your home is safe and secure.
Remove the exterior faceplate of the doorknob/deadbolt. There could be screws that hold it in place, if you need to remove them, use a screwdriver to loosen them and then pull the faceplate off. Next you can use a flat-head screwdriver to take off the interior faceplate. After you have removed the faceplate, you can take the bolt and screw from the lock cylinder.
A locksmith can help you determine if the existing lock requires replacement or replaced with a new key. They can also provide guidance on the most effective security measures for your home. They can also make necessary modifications to your door and frame for an ideal fit. They also offer an assurance on their work.
You must purchase a new lock key before you can reset it. It is essential to select a key that fits well inside the lock. A key that is not properly fitted could damage the mechanism inside and stop it from functioning. Insert the key into the lock to check its size. If the key fits perfectly against the plug, then it is the right size. If the pins stick out of the top of the plug, they're not long.
You may want to change your door lock for a variety of reasons, such as:
If you're moving into a previous homeowner's house or lose keys, rekeying your lock is an affordable option than replacing it. It's also more cost-effective than a complete replacement. However, there are circumstances where rekeying your existing lock isn't an option. For example, if the lock is damaged or jammed repeatedly, it's likely time to replace it.