10 Meetups About Door Lock Change You Should Attend
How to Do a Door Lock Change
Changing your door lock is an easy and inexpensive method to increase the security of your home. This process isn't for all. It requires a certain amount of skill and perseverance.
The cylinder is inside the knob body. The cylinder is what recognizes the key when it's put into the lock.
Removing the old lock
The first step to replace a door lock is to get rid of the old lock. This is a relatively easy process, but there are a few things to remember. First, ensure that your new lock is the correct size for your door. This will ensure that it fits securely and doesn't create a gap around the latch or deadbolt plug.
After you have removed the latch plate, you will have to look for two bolts or screws on the inside of the casing that are holding the casing together with the lock halves. Unscrew them using a screwdriver and then remove the lock from the door. If you are using a mortise locking system there is an anchor screw that connects the handle to the spindle. Take off the doorknobs by removing this screw with a screwdriver.
Take the deadbolt and latch plug from your door jamb. Then, you are able to install your new lock. If you are replacing a mortise you should determine the distance between your lock case and your door edge to make sure that the new lock will fit.
Many reasons could cause you to replace the door lock, such as suspecting that someone else has the key, or you are welcoming an incoming roommate. In any case, you can save money by taking the lock off yourself instead of paying an expert to do it. The process is easier than many people imagine, and it can be completed in a few minutes.
Remove the trim and handle from your door. With a flat screwdriver remove the trim. You will be able to pull off most of it, and in some instances the handles may fall off completely. Then, look for a small pinhole on the interior side and insert a straightened paper clip into it. This will activate the release mechanism and allow you to remove the handle from the door. Then, look on the interior side of the lock for a small tab and press it with a flat screwdriver. Once the spindle has been removed, you are able to remove the housing and cylinder.
The choice of a new locking system
There are a lot of options available when it comes time to pick the right lock. Think about the various kinds of locks and choose one that is in keeping with the style of your door. Consider upvc window lock repair cost (the distance between the door's edge and the center of the hole for 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 be able to fit the door's thickness and swing.
The American National Standards Institute and BHMA have graded most door locks to give you an idea of their strength and how difficult it is to pick them or disable them. A grade 3 lock could be the best choice for a peaceful suburban apartment complex, whereas the grade 1 lock may be more able to withstand the traffic near a busy store front on a city street.
Most smart door locks require a digital code to open. If you're concerned about hacking or other security issues, consult with an expert locksmith or your local police department for assistance.
Replace the cylinder
If the cylinder of your door lock is damaged or broken it can be replaced in a matter of minutes using a simple DIY project. It is essential to choose the right cylinder and follow the instructions. The first step is to take off the knob or handle if there is one and then remove the trim that is attached to the base of the lock cylinder by using the aid of a screwdriver. After the trim has been removed, you can remove the screws holding the cylinder in place using a flathead. The cylinder is then gently removed away from the door.
Before you install the new cylinder, be sure that it's the right length for the door you are using. With a tape measure, determine the distance between the cylinder's center and the left and right sides. Then, you can purchase another cylinder that has the same measurements. This will prevent cylinders from snapping when the door is hit or the key is stuck inside.
Place the replacement cylinder inside the door and then turn the key. This will ensure that the cylinder is aligned with the carrier, which is normally located on the outside of the lock. Then, loosen the set screw, which should be a few turns in the head. You will also need to loosen the screw on the edge of the door that fastens the case, should there be one.
You can replace the cylinder that was used to lock your old lock with the new one by sliding it into the case and then tightening the set screws. It is also recommended to reinstall the piece that connects the cylinder with the stem for the lock indicator and this can be done by removing three small tabs on the back of the cylinder using needle-nose pliers. Then, you can connect 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 lock the cylinder.
Installing the new lock
If you're replacing an old lock, you must begin by taking measurements of the width of the door. Most residential locksets come with a thickness of 3/8 inch to 1 3/4 inches. If your door is thicker it will require a door kit that is thick and includes longer screws as well as an extended tail piece (for door knobs) or spindle extension (for deadbolts).
The majority of locks come with a detailed installation guide to help you. Take the time to read the instructions before starting the process to ensure that you are following all of the necessary steps. The booklet will also give you an idea of the level of skill required to accomplish the task. You might want to ask a friend who has had experience in changing locks for help if you are changing locks for the first time.

It's a great idea to seal the openings of the old lock before installing the new lock. This will stop screws from falling through the holes and will also protect any tiles you may have put in. It also protects against possible damage caused by rust, dirt, and grime. SECURAM Touch comes with a strip of painter's tape that is intended to be used for this purpose, but you can also use gaffer's tape or masking tape when you have it.
Once you've removed the screws that connect the interior portion of the lock section to the exterior side then pull it out straight away. It is important to do this swiftly to avoid the lock from accidentally closing on itself and damage the mechanism.
If your new lock is equipped with an internal latch bolt, insert the new latch bolt into the upper cross bore. Make sure to place it in the right position, which will be indicated by an arrow. Then, slide the latch plate onto the bolt and screw it in the correct position.
Screw the deadbolt into the jamb of the door. Test the deadbolt by throwing it several times to make sure that it extends all the way through the strike plate and is secured. Follow the instructions that come with your electronic smart lock to program it. This involves downloading an application and registering your email address, confirming your identity, and connecting to the wireless network to connect your device.