Why Is This Door Lock Replacement So Beneficial? In COVID-19?
Door Lock Replacement - What You Need to Know
When the locks on your door start to show signs of wear and tear it's generally an ideal time to replace them. These signs can include things like having trouble turning the lock or the lock not fitting a key. fit.
It is easy to install new door hardware. It is all you need to do is follow these simple steps.
Deadbolt
The deadbolt is the door's primary defense against forced entry. It is more durable and secure than the latch which activates the lock. So, you'll want to make sure that the new deadbolt you purchase meets your requirements. If possible, choose the deadbolt made of case hardened steel that does not have exposed screwheads on the exterior to stop drilling by anyone else. To ensure security, the inside of your deadbolt must be drilled into the door frame.
During the process of installation, check that your new deadbolt's bolt slides smoothly into the strike plate when you shut and lock the door. If it isn't, use a wood chisel to make a mortise for the bolt hole into the strike plate and re-install the deadbolt. Make sure the latch on the doorknob meets the deadbolt hole when you close and lock the door, too.
Check that the new deadbolt matches the old one prior to installing it. The majority of door locks have a template showing how far the bolt should be above the doorknob. However, it's 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 towards models that are compatible with your doors and existing deadbolt opening.
Install the bolt assembly into the door hole after ensuring it is the correct length. If your new deadbolt has a latch faceplate, screw it into place and secure it, too. It is a good idea to attach the latch faceplate to the frame using the recommended screws and also.
Certain lock sets have an attractive or "dummy" bolt that allows you to use the keyed-deadbolt while still having an effective latch. If you're using this type of lock the dummy bolt must be installed with the same screws as your faceplate for your latch and it's crucial that the two fit together properly for maximum security.
Some deadbolts can only be opened by thumb-turn from the inside some have two cylinders that allow keys and non-keyed access. It is recommended to select the lock that is commercial grade to ensure the highest security. These are typically tested to withstand 250,000 open and close cycles before being sold to homeowners.
Latch
The latch is the part that retracts the bolt when you shut or open the door. It is usually fastened by screws on the side however it can be affixed to the strike plate of the door jamb. It is crucial to replace a door latch with the correct one for the hardware you have. You can either put the latch up against the hardware you have already installed or check the label on a new. Dunn Lumber offers a wide range of brands. However, it is best to choose the same brand that matches the hardware you already have. This will ensure that the latch you buy will fit properly.
Certain doors come with a havep instead of a latch. A hasp is straps with slots punched in it that is able to be positioned over the staple. The staple is then attached to the door door frame with a nail. When the door is shut the strap pulls down on the staple and locks in the frame. Commercial buildings utilize a hasp since it is cheaper than a lock.
Like any mechanism that has moving parts, a lock will wear out from frequent use over time. Sometimes, the internal mechanism may "stick" or become difficult to turn. This may require replacement of the entire lockset. Sometimes, the exterior handle or doorknob will break, making it necessary to replace it as well.
If your lock is stuck it is possible to try using some graphite in the keyhole. You can either squirt some on the key or dust it on the inside of the lock. Then move the lock several times to incorporate the graphite into the mechanism. You can also remove the knob with a screwdriver, which will expose all the parts and let you know what's happening inside.
Once you've removed all the knobs, locate the two or three cylinder setscrews along the edge of the cylinder. Tighten them by turning clockwise. Also, remove the faceplate and replace it. Surface-mounted rim locks include an additional set of cylinder screws on the back of the case, which must be removed, as is the cover plate.
Strike Plate
The strike plate, connected to the door frame above the holes to accommodate the deadbolt or master key system bolt, reinforces and upgrades the locking mechanism. It helps keep intruders out by making sure that the latch of the lock is caught in the strike plate when the latch or bolt is engaged. repairmywindowsanddoors -quality strikeplate can increase the life of locks and enhance security.
A typical strike plate appears like a flat plate of metal with holes or sets of holes cut into it. It is secured, typically by screws, to the frame of a doorway to provide the latch with a place to rest in when it closes. The strike plate must be precisely aligned with the lockset to provide maximum protection against burglaries.
If the strike plate of the door is damaged you should replace it as soon as you can. This will ensure that the door will close and latch correctly. When replacing a strikeplate, you must first make sure that it is correctly aligned with the bolt hole in the doorjamb. This can be done easily by placing a piece adhesive tape over the bolt hole, and then testing the latch. If the latch doesn't work it, take the tape off. Then chisel it to create a level with the doorjamb.
After the area has been chiseled it is crucial to use a longer bolt to anchor the strike plate. They must be at least 3 inches long to ensure they are securely fixed to a stud which is behind the trim board. If you do not install the longer screws, then the doorjamb's wood could split during a kicking attack by an burglar, leaving the door vulnerable.
A professional locksmith can swiftly replace the strike plate that has become worn or damaged. They can also put the new strike plate onto a door that has never had one before. They can also upgrade existing strikeplates to improve the security of a building as well as its appearance. This will help property owners attract tenants who are looking for a safe living environment and greater peace of mind.
Keys
The key cylinder of your lock is the part that accepts the key to move pins so that the internal handle can turn. The cylinder is also the most important part of your door lock as it performs the job that locks were designed to do - protecting your family, you and your belongings. Rekeying locks is a more economical option than replacing them.
It is more difficult to change the lock than simply swap out the existing 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. While there are a number of DIY-friendly kits available that can be used to change a lock yourself however, it is recommended you contact a skilled locksmith to ensure the job is done correctly.
It is essential to have the correct key before you install your new lock and cylinder. A key that is duplicate will not function properly and could cause the lock to fail completely, making it impossible to open. A professional can prevent this from happening by ensuring that you have a an actual, working key for your house.
The next step is to take off the faceplate, then the latch plate. You will need a screwdriver to remove the screws that secure them. If the new plates will be similar to the original ones, you may wish to secure them to make it easier. If you are required to replace them, be careful not to overtighten screws, as this can cause them to lose their grip.
After taking off the plates, you will be required to measure the door to determine the proper size of the lock. It is important to know the dimensions of your door prior to visiting the hardware store. Although many locksets today will fit in a standard door's thickness, it's better to have them in advance. Doorknob locksets are often different sizes from deadbolt locks, and commercial models may have a bigger bolt or latch.