How to Choose a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are your home's primary security feature. When they wear out or become compromised, it's time to replace them.
Changing locks can also be a good way to freshen up your home decor or give you the feeling of security following divorce or a blended family. Learn the fundamentals of installing a replacement door lock.
Replacement vs. rekeying
The change of locks can increase the security of a property. It is crucial to weigh the pros and cons of replacing locks versus rekeying them.
Rekeying is generally replace window locks upvc for those not planning to replace their entire lockset. It is a faster and cheaper option than replacing the entire lockset since you just have to change the pins in the cylinder. Rekeying your locks can make them work with a new set of keys, which will obliterate the old ones and making it harder for those with access to gain entry into your home or business.
This is a popular choice for homeowners who want to ensure that previous owners or anyone with a duplicate key cannot enter the home without being caught. This is also useful to those who are concerned about a rogue office employee, as they can use it to block them from gaining access to sensitive information or areas in the building.
However, rekeying only gives you limited security advantages. It doesn't do much to deter people from physically attempting to get in, and it does nothing to stop them if they do succeed in forcing their way in anyway. If you are concerned about this, you should consider upgrading your locks to a deadbolt, rather than simply changing the keys.
Another scenario where you might want to consider changing your locks is if you've had them stolen. This is a regular event for businesses, and it's crucial to act swiftly when this happens. By rekeying your locks you'll be able stop those who have stolen them from accessing sensitive areas within the company, and it will also help you have the chance to file a police report in case there is a problem.
The best reason to replace your locks is when they're damaged or damaged beyond repair. It could be as simple as a bolt that is stuck or a handle that's broken and cannot function. It's also an ideal idea to swap locks if they're made of poor quality hardware that can be easily tampered with like the door knob or lever with spring-loaded latches that could be easily bypassed using credit card.
Measure Your Door
First, you must know the dimensions of your door before you can select a lock. The best way to find these is to use a tape measure and pencil or pen. Utilizing your fingers or an arm's length is very inaccurate and will give you wrong measurements. Measure the width of the opening from the bottom, middle and top. Be sure to not include the frame. You can also measure from the floor to the threshold (for interior door) or the top of the frame.
If your door has been drilled to accommodate mortise locks, you'll need to take a few extra measurements. The backset is measured from the edge of the door to the center hole. Most common backsets are 1" and 2" (or 44mm and 57mm). You'll need to determine the depth of the hole in the door after you've chosen the location of your deadbolt. This is measured between the edges of the opening and the centerline of the latch actuating hole for new installations or from the bottom to the top of a strike for existing openings.
Finally, you'll need to decide if your new door is going to be out-swinging or in-swinging. This is crucial because certain locks require a certain installation technique that is based on the direction of swing.
Now that you've got all of your measurements now is the time to start shopping for your replacement lock! Keep all of your measurements in one place and bring them with you when you visit the store to choose the lock. This will allow you to find the perfect fit for your door and ensure that it looks great. Happy shopping and good luck! Contact us for any questions! We're always here to help! We are open from Monday through Saturday, from 10AM to 6PM. We can also be reached via Facebook or Twitter. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
Find the Lock that's right for you
You'll want to choose the right lock for your home. The best locks are top-quality and can deter thieves. Grade 1 locks are the most durable and recommended for front doors.
Start by visiting the website of the manufacturer. The majority of manufacturers will provide complete instructions for installation as well as a customer service hotline. They will also have recommendations on how to install their products on the door you have chosen. This will give you an idea of whether this is something you can tackle on your own or if you'll require the assistance of a professional.
It is crucial to make sure you have the correct dimension of the keyhole to install an entirely new lock. If the keyhole isn't big enough, it will need to be increased or you may want to think about the design of your lock. Also, you'll need to think about the size of your door since not all deadbolts fit all doors. They are usually rated at 2 3/8 inches or 2 3/4 inches, but you'll need find a deadbolt that is suitable for your door.
The lock's materials are important to consider. You don't want to invest in a cheap lock that might be a simple target for thieves to get into your Burlington, MA, home. Find an item that is certified with the BHMA (Builder Hardware Manufacturers Association) and has the highest quality rating.
If you have a brand new door, you might need to look at the security ratings on the lever and knob to make sure they are up to your standards. This is especially true when you have children living in the house, or if the previous owners might still have keys to your house.
Replacing your locks is a easy DIY project. With the proper tools and a small amount of knowledge, you can replace your locks in just an hour. It's also a great way to freshen up the look of your home without breaking the bank. You'll also be able feel secure knowing that your belongings and family are protected.
Install the Lock
Your door is the entrance to your Burlington, MA, home where you store what's most valuable to you. Whether that's your pets, family members, or your possessions, you want to be sure that they are secure. If your lock isn't performing its job, it's time to replace it.
It's more expensive replace your lock than rekey it and you also get the added benefit of locking your door to the frame. A deadbolt is impossible to pull or pick and the length of the bolt makes it harder for a thief to gain entry using a wrench. If you're not sure which type of lock is best for your door, consider asking an expert locksmith for help.
Remove the lock that was previously installed from the door prior to installing the new one. First, loosen the screws that connect the handle section to exterior lock sections. Then, use a screw driver to pry the two lock halves apart. Then, you can remove the old knob and latch from the door.
Install the new door lock correctly. The latch should be set within the latch plate and have an edge that is tapered and fits into the hole for the locking mechanism. Align the screw holes on the inside of your door to match the deadbolt and latch to the receiving rods. This will allow the screws to be threaded into place properly and prevent them from becoming loose over time.
If you are using the same lock you can keep the latch and strike plate in place. Hold them up to the new lock and then compare, and if they don't match, purchase replacements that will fit properly.
Install the lock once you've installed the new hardware. Start by placing the deadbolt in its correct position. When you do this pay particular attention to the "up" mark on the deadbolt. This will help you remember that you're inserting it on the right side of the door. Then, screw the interior and exterior plates together with the long screws that are included with the new lock.