How to Do a Door Lock Change
Change your door lock is a simple and inexpensive way to increase the security of your home. This isn't for all. It requires a certain amount of patience and skill.
You need to replace the cylinder, which is located inside the knob's body. The cylinder is what identifies the key when it is put into the lock.
Removing the old lock
First, remove the old lock. It is a fairly straightforward process, however it is important to keep a few things in mind. Make sure the new lock is compatible with your door. This will ensure that it fits securely, and doesn't leave a gap in the deadbolt or latch.
After you have removed the latch plate, you'll be required to search for two screws or bolts on the inside of the casing that hold the casing in place with the lock halves. Remove these screws with the help of a screwdriver, and then remove the lock off the door. If you have a mortise lock, there may be a set screw at the base of the handle, which binds it to the spindle. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the screw, and then take out the doorknobs.
Take the deadbolt and latch plug from the door jamb. Install your new lock. If you are replacing a mortise you must determine the distance between your lock's case and the door edge to make sure that the new lock will fit.
You may want to replace your lock for various reasons, for instance, if you suspect that someone else holds the key or you have a new roommate. You can save money if you take the lock off yourself instead of hiring an expert. It's much easier than most people imagine and can be accomplished in just a few moments.
Remove the trim and handle of your door. Then, pull the trim away using a flat screwdriver. You should be able twist off the majority of it. In certain cases, you may even be able to remove the handles completely. Then, check the handle for a tiny pinhole on the inside. Then insert a straightened paper clip into it. This will trigger the release mechanism, allowing you to remove the handle. Look for a small tab that is located inside of the lock and push it using a flat screwdriver. Once the spindle is removed, you can take off the cylinder and housing.
Making a choice for a new lock
When it comes time to pick a new lock, you have many choices. Think about the various kinds of locks and choose one that fits the design of your door. Take into consideration the backset which is the distance between the edge and the middle of the hole in the lock. Also consider the cross bore, a small hole at the edge of your door frame. Choose a lock that fits the door's thickness and swing.
Most door locks have been assessed by BHMA and the American National Standards Institute to give you an idea of how they are able to withstand the rigors of use and how difficult they are to pick or disable. A grade 3 lock might be a good choice for a tranquil suburban apartment complex, whereas an entry grade lock could 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're worried about hacking, or any other security concerns, speak to an expert locksmith.
Replace the cylinder
If the cylinder of your door lock is damaged or broken, you can replace it within a matter of minutes using a simple DIY project. The key is to choose the right cylinder, and follow the steps that come with it. First, remove the handle or knob if it is present. Then using a screwdriver take off the trim around the lock cylinder. Once replacing window locks has been removed, you can remove the screws holding the cylinder in place using a flathead. The cylinder is then gently pulled from the door.
Make sure you measure the length of your new cylinder prior to installing it. Take a measurement of the distance from the center to the right and left sides of the cylinder with the aid of a tape measure. Buy a new cylinder that has the same measurements. This will prevent cylinders from snapping when the door is kicked or the key becomes stuck inside.
If you have a replacement cylinder, insert it into the door and turn the key. This will ensure that the cylinder is aligned with the carrier, which is typically located on the outside of the lock. After that, you can loosen the set screw, which should be just a few turns inside the head. If there is a screw on the edge of the case that is holding the door, you will need to remove it.
You can replace the lock cylinder you have used with a new one by slipping it into the case and then tightening the set screws. It is also recommended to reinstall the piece that connects the cylinder to the stem for the lock indicator that you can do by pulling up three tabs on the back of the cylinder using needle-nose pliers. Then, you can attach the remaining smaller bracket to the back of the cylinder. Then, you need to reinstall the strike plate and latch plate as well as the retaining ring that is attached to the top of the lock the cylinder.
Installing a new lock
If you're replacing an old lock, start by taking measurements of the width of the door. The majority of residential locksets have a thickness of 1 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches. If your door is more thick, you will need a door kit that is thick and includes longer screws as well as longer tail pieces (for door knobs) or spindle extension (for deadbolts).
Most locks come with detailed instruction booklet to help you install 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 give you a good idea of the amount of skill that is required to complete the task. If you're replacing a lock for the first time, you might need to seek out an experienced friend for assistance.
It's a good idea to cover the holes in the old hardware before installing the new lock. This will stop the screws from falling out of the holes and protect any tile you might have installed in the area. This will also protect your tiles from any damage caused by dirt, rust and grime. SECURAM Touch includes an ad-hoc strip of masking tape or gaffer tape, however you can use any tape you have.
After you have removed the screws that hold the interior portion of the lock section to the outside side then pull it out straight away. This must be done quickly to prevent the lock from accidentally closing and damaging the mechanism.
Fit the new latch bolt in the upper cross bore of your new lock, if it comes with one. Make sure that you place it in the right position, which is indicated by an arrow. Next, fit the latch plate over the bolt and screw it in place.
Screw the deadbolt into the jamb on the door. Try the deadbolt a few times by throwing it to see if it extends into the strike plate. If you're using an electronic smart lock, make sure to follow the included instructions to program it. This involves downloading an app, creating an email address, verifying your identity, then accessing the wireless network to connect your device.