Reasons to Change Door Lock There are many reasons to change the door lock, from improving your home's security, to redecorating your entryway. You might also have to change locks if your key is stuck inside or is difficult to turn. Changing your lock is a simple project that even beginner DIY homeowners can take on. Get the tools you need to begin. Take off the lock that was previously used. Removal of the old lock from the door is a necessary step prior to installing the new lock. This is important if you suspect someone else may have a key to the house. It could also be an excellent idea if have recently moved into a home that was burglarized, or had a roommate move in. It is easier than you think and can be completed in just a few minutes. Begin by removing the screws holding the deadbolt faceplate to the door frame. To remove the faceplate, you'll have to remove screws from both sides. This will allow you to discover what's behind it and provide you with a better understanding of how to proceed with the rest of the steps. Once you have removed your old faceplate, then you have to take off the bolt and strike plate. Remove the bolt from the door hole by using a screwdriver. If the bolt is rusty you may need to use a chisel smash it out. When using a chisel remove the bolt, be careful not damage the door frame. Before you take out the old lock, be sure that your new doorknob and deadbolt fit in the existing holes on the door. Numerous hardware stores and large box stores stock a range of locks, and can help you choose the right one. If the lock you purchased does not match your door, send it back and ask for assistance. Look for small dents or depressions in the handle and around the trim while you remove the old lock. If you are able to locate them, you can use straightened safety pins or a flat screwdriver to release the handle. After the screw in the handle has been removed you can begin to remove the knob from its spindle. To do this, locate the set screw located at the base of the knob and loosen. Then, remove the spindle. Install the new lock It's a good idea to change the locks on your doors frequently, especially if you have had a break-in. Changing the lock is an affordable, simple and efficient way to ensure that your home is secure. With a screwdriver, and a few basic steps most people can handle it themselves. You may also want to learn how to change the key on your door lock to ensure that only you hold the key. To begin the process, you have to purchase a new lock that is compatible with the keyway of your current lock. Most locksmiths will rekey your lock for you at a cost however, you can save money by doing it yourself. You can buy a new lock from a hardware store or on the internet. A standard deadbolt will usually fit on most doors however, you'll need to measure the size of your door to make sure that it will fit. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/birmingham-window-lock-repairs-near-me/ buy will typically come with a template showing how to install it on the door. This template can be used to drill the hole. It is much easier than having to measure each time. If the template doesn't match up with your hole then you should take it back to the hardware store and purchase another one. The new lock on the right side of the door. Verify the latch. It should have a label that says "up" or something similar. Make sure the latch is sitting correctly on the latch plate, then secure it with the screws provided. If you're replacing a door knob lock it is also essential to be aware of the type of lock you're using. Most knob locks are left-handed, but there are some that are right-handed. If you are not careful, the knob could be installed on the wrong side of your door, which would prevent it from being locked from the inside or outside. After you've finished checking your new lock to confirm that it works. You should be able both to lock and unlock the door using a key from the inside as well as from the outside. If you're not happy with the outcome, you can always call an expert locksmith to repair it. Test the lock A lock that does not open can be a hassle but it can also put your family's safety at risk. Luckily, it's easy to fix most problems with door locks by performing a bit of troubleshooting and lubrication. First, make sure whether your key has been properly cut and that the lock isn't soiled or loose. If this doesn't resolve the issue try lubricating your door lock actuator using powdered graphite. Check that the doorlock switch, wiring harnesses, and actuator connector all work properly. To do this, consult the manual or wiring diagram to determine the function and color-coding of all the door lock switch wires. Use a digital meter or test light to check if the actuator is receiving power and ground whenever the switches are turned on. If you observe an electrical voltage switch with each switch's activation, it suggests that the switches are in good condition and it's likely the actuator that requires to be replaced. If the switch seems to be working but the actuator doesn't move when you turn it, there may be a problem with the cylinder. The actuator cylinder is fitted with pins that are spring-loaded. They stop the cylinder from rotating until the key is put in, and then they push them upwards to meet the height of the key at the location. The cylinder will then begin to rotate, opening the lock body and opening the handle latch to be opened. If the door lock actuator is still not functioning, you can remove it by using a small screwdriver. It is necessary to remove the locking bolt first and then remove the plastic cover that houses the electrical connector. Then you must disconnect the door lock actuator and let it fall down. You should be able find the two bolts of 10mm that keep the actuator in place and then remove them. After the actuator has been removed, you'll be in a position to disconnect the black electrical connector and then pull it out along with the actuator and lock assembly. Replace the key If your keyed deadbolt or door knob isn't working, you will have to reset it or replace it. It is not difficult to do this yourself and can save you lots of money. But, prior to doing this it is a good idea to have a locksmith examine the locks and look for any issues. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure. To begin, remove the exterior faceplate from the deadbolt or doorknob. If there are screws that hold the faceplate, use a screwdriver and remove it. Next utilize a flat head screwdriver to take off the interior faceplate. Once you have removed your faceplate, you can remove the bolt and screw from the lock cylinder. A locksmith can decide whether you need to replace or rekey your lock. They can also provide advice on the best security options for your home. They can also make any necessary adjustments to the door or frame to ensure a perfect fit. They will also offer the guarantee on their work. If you decide to rekey your lock, you'll have to first buy a new key for it. It is crucial to use a key that fits well within the lock. A key that's not the right size can damage the internal mechanism of a lock and prevent it from working. To determine the size of a key, simply insert it into the lock. If the key fits completely against the plug then it is the right size. If the pins stick out of the top of the plug, they're not long. There are many reasons why you might want to replace your door lock, including: Rekeying a lock can be a cheaper option than replacing it if you're moving into the home of a previous owner or if keys are missing. It's also less costly than a full replacement. However, there are some circumstances where rekeying your existing lock isn't an option. If the lock has been damaged or repeatedly jammed, for instance, it may be time to replace it.