Door Lock Replacement - What You Need to Know
When the locks on your door start to exhibit signs of wear and tear, it's recommended to replace them. These signs include things like experiencing difficulty turning the lock, or a key that isn't fitting.
It is simple to set up new door hardware. All you need to do is follow these steps.
Deadbolt
The deadbolt is the main protection of your door against forced entry. It is more durable and secure than the latch that operates the lock, so you'll want to make sure your new deadbolt is strong enough to meet your requirements. If possible, look for deadbolts made of case hardened steel and has no screw heads exposed on the outside to avoid drilling that isn't authorized. The interior side of the deadbolt needs to be secured to your door frame to enhance security.
During installation, make sure that the bolt of your new deadbolt extends smoothly through the strike plate when you shut and lock the doors. If not, make a mortise bolt in the strike plate with a wood chisel, and then install the deadbolt. When you close and lock your door, make sure that the latch of the doorknob is in line with the hole of the deadbolt.
Before installing your new deadbolt, make sure whether it's the same size of the previous one. The majority of door locks come with an example of how far the bolt should be located above the doorknob. However, it is always recommended to consult a hardware expert if you are unsure what backset measurement you need for your doors. They will be able to direct you in the direction of models that are compatible with your door and the existing deadbolt opening.
Install the bolt assembly into the door hole after ensuring it's the right length. Screw the latch faceplate into the hole if the new deadbolt is equipped with one. It's a good idea to fix the latch faceplate onto the frame using the screws recommended by experts, in addition.
Some lock sets have some lock sets have a "dummy" or decorative bolt that allows you to install the keyed deadbolt and still have a working latch. If you're given the option that the dummy bolt is installed, it must be installed using the same screws that are used to install the latch faceplate. This will ensure maximum security.
Some deadbolts have a single cylinder that's only accessible from the inside using an open thumb, while other come with a double cylinder that allows both keyed and unkeyed access. Regardless of what kind you pick it's a good idea to buy a commercial-grade lock for the highest level of security. They've been tested to withstand up to 250,000 cycles of closing and opening before they are sold to homeowners.
Latch
upvc replacement door locks is the part that retracts the bolt when you open or close the door. It's usually held in place by screws that are located on the side of the lock, however it could also be fixed to the strike plate or to the inside of the door jamb. When replacing a door lock, it's important to make sure you get the correct one that matches the hardware you have. You can either hold the latch up against the existing hardware or look up the label on a new. Dunn Lumber offers a wide variety of brands. However, it's best to choose the same brand that matches the hardware you already have. This will ensure that the latch you purchase will fit correctly.
Some doors have a hasp instead of a latch. A hasp consists of a strap with a slot punched in it, which can be placed over the staple. The staple is then attached to the door or door frame with a nail. When the door is closed and the strap is pulled, it will pull the staple down and locks it in the frame. Commercial buildings use a hasp because it is cheaper than a lock.
Locks are susceptible to wear and tear over time as does any other mechanism with moving parts. Sometimes, the internal mechanism may begin to "stick" and be difficult to turn, making it necessary to replace the entire lockset. Sometimes the exterior doorknob will be damaged and it is important to replace it too.
If your lock is stuck to the key, you can try putting some graphite inside the keyhole. You can either spray some on the key or dust it onto the inside of the lock, and then use the lock a few times to get the graphite into the mechanism. You can also remove the knob with an screwdriver, which will reveal all the components and let you know what's going on inside.
After removing the knobs then tighten the three or two setscrews at the edges of the cylinder by turning them clockwise. You should also remove the faceplate and replace it. Surface-mounted rimlocks come with an additional set cylinder setscrews on the back of the case that must be removed along with the faceplate.
Strike Plate
The strike plate is a reinforcement and upgrade to the locking system. It is attached above the holes for the deadbolts or master key systems bolts. It helps keep intruders out by ensuring the latch of the lock is caught in the plate when the bolt is engaged. A strikeplate that is of high-quality can improve the durability of locks as well as enhance security.
A standard strike plate looks like a flat plate of metal with an opening or set of holes cut into it. It is affixed to the door frame, usually with screws, which gives the latch something to sink into when it closes. It is essential that the strike plate be carefully aligned with the lockset in order to offer maximum protection against break-ins.
If a door's strikeplate is damaged, it must be replaced as soon as is feasible to ensure that the door can shut and latch properly. The first step when replacing a strike plate is to ensure that it is aligned properly with the bolt hole in the doorjamb. This can be done by placing a piece adhesive tape over the bolt hole, and then attempting to test the latch. If the latch doesn't catch it, take the tape off. Then, chisel the hole to create a aligned with the doorjamb.
After the area is removed, it is important to use a larger screw to secure the strike plate. They must be at least 3 inches in length in order to ensure they are securely fixed to the stud behind the trim board. If you do not use the longer screws, the wood in the doorjamb may split during a robbery attack by a burglar, and leave the door vulnerable.
A professional locksmith can swiftly replace a strike plate that's become worn or damaged. They can also install new strike plates on doors that have never been fitted with them before. They can also modify existing strikeplates to enhance the security of a building and its appearance. This can aid property owners in attracting tenants who want a secure living space and peace of mind.
Keys
The key cylinder of your lock is the part that allows the key to move pins so that the inner handle can rotate. The key cylinder is the most crucial part of your door lock as it performs the purpose that locks were made for to protect your family, you, and your belongings. Rekeying locks is a cost-effective alternative to replacing them.
It is more difficult to change locks than to swap out the existing handle and deadbolt. The old hardware, cylinder and handle (if you have the knob and lock combo) must be removed from the door before the new lock can be installed. While there are a number of DIY-friendly kits available that you can use to replace a lock on your own but it is highly recommended that you contact a skilled locksmith to ensure the job is done correctly.
Before you install an entirely new lock and cylinder, it is important to have the right key for your house. A duplicate key won't function properly and may even cause the lock to fail and make it impossible to open. A professional can help prevent this from happening by ensuring that you have a an authentic, functioning key for your house.
Next, you will need to take off the faceplate and latch plate. You'll need a screwdriver for the removal of the screws that hold them in place. If the new plates are going to be identical to the original ones, you might want to hold them in place to speed up the process. If you are required to replace them, don't overtighten screws, as this can weaken their grip.
After you have removed the plates, you will have to determine the proper measurement for the new lock. While many contemporary locksets will fit a standard thickness of door, it's important to know the dimensions of your door prior to installation to avoid a headache when you go to the hardware store. Doorknob locksets are often different sizes from deadbolt locks and commercial models may have a larger bolt or latch.