Reasons to Change Door Lock There are a variety of reasons to change your the lock on your door, from increasing your home's security, to redecorating your entrance. You may need to change locks if your key gets stuck or becomes difficult to turn. DIY novices can also change their locks. Gather the materials needed to begin. Take off the lock that was previously used. Before installing a new lock it is essential to remove the old one from the door. This is particularly important in the event that you suspect someone else has a key to your home. It is also a good idea if you have moved into a new house, experienced a break-in or received a new roommate. The process is simpler than you imagine and can be completed in just a few minutes. Begin by removing the screws that hold the deadbolt faceplate onto the door frame. To remove the faceplate, you'll need to take off screws on both sides. This will allow you see the inside of the door and give you a better understanding of how to continue with the remaining steps. Once you have removed your old faceplate, you will have to remove the bolt and strike plate. Remove the bolt from the door hole with a screwdriver. If the bolt is rusted you may need to use a chisel and smash it. If you're using a chisel, be careful not to damage the door frame. Make sure your new deadbolt, doorknob and lock will fit in the holes that are already present in the door before you remove the old one. Numerous hardware stores and large box stores stock a range of locks and can help you choose the right one. If the lock you bought is not compatible with your door, take it back and ask for assistance. Find small depressions or notches inside the handle and around the trim when you remove the old lock. If you can find them, slip a straightened safety pin or flat screwdriver into these to loosen the handle and expose screws underneath. After you have removed the screw from the handle, you are able to begin removing the knob. 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 periodically particularly if you've experienced a burglary. Change the lock is an inexpensive, simple and efficient way to ensure that your home is safe. The majority of people can do this by themselves using a screwdriver, a screwdriver, and some basic directions. Based on the situation you might also need to learn how to reset a lock so that only you have the key. To start the process, you'll need to buy a new lock that matches the keyway on your existing lock. Most locksmiths will replace your lock for a fee but you can save money by doing it yourself. You can purchase a new lock at an hardware store, or even online. Standard deadbolts will fit the majority of doors. However, you'll have to measure your door to make sure it is suitable. The lock you buy will typically include a template that shows you how to install it on the door. It can be used to guide you for drilling the hole, which is much more convenient than measuring each time. If the template does not align with your hole, you can take it back to the shop and purchase a new one. When installing the new lock, you must ensure that it is placed on the right side of the door. You can verify this by checking the latch, which should be labeled "up" or something similar. Make sure that the latch is correctly seated on the plate and fix it using the supplied screws. If you are replacing the knob lock on your door It's important to pay attention to the handing. Certain knob locks are left-handed. If you're not careful, the lock could be installed on the wrong side of your door, which would hinder it from locking from the inside or outside. You should test the new lock once you finish. You should be in a position to lock the door from both the inside as well as the outside, and unlock it with a key. If you're not satisfied with the result then you can always call a professional locksmith to repair it. Test the lock While a door lock that won't unlock is a hassle but it could also put your family's safety at risk. It's a good thing that it's simple to fix most problems with door locks by performing some troubleshooting, and lubrication. Verify that the key has been properly cut, and that the lock assembly isn't dirty or loose. If this doesn't solve the problem, you can try to lubricate the door lock actuator using powdered graphite or a silicone-based lubricant. Then, make sure that the door lock switch, wiring harnesses and the actuator connector are working correctly. Consult the wiring diagram or manual to determine the color-coding and the function of each wire of the door lock switch. Then, test the wires using a light or digital meter to see if the door lock actuator is receiving power and ground when the switches are turned on. If you observe an electrical voltage switch with each switch's activation, it means the switches are working and it's probably the actuator that requires to be replaced. If the switch seems to be working but the actuator doesn't move when you turn it, it could be a problem with the cylinder. The actuator cylinder is outfitted with pins that are spring-loaded. They prevent the cylinder from turning until the key is put in, which then pushes them up to the same height as the key at the location. The cylinder will then begin to turn, opening the lock body and allowing the handle latch to be opened. If the door lock actuator is faulty, you can remove the switch and wires from the actuator with small screwdrivers to loosen the bolt that locks and then separate the plastic cover that houses the electrical connector. Then you must disconnect the door lock actuator and let it drop down. Then you should be able to identify and remove the two bolts that are that hold the actuator in position. Once the actuator is removed, you should be capable of disconnecting the black electrical connector and then pull it out together with the lock and actuator assembly. Replace the key If you have an unkeyed door knob or deadbolt, if it is not working correctly, you should either change the lock's key or rekey it or replace it completely. It's not too difficult and could save you money. But, before doing this, it's an excellent idea to get a locksmith to examine the locks and look for any issues. This will give you peace of mind that your home is secure and secure. To begin, remove the exterior faceplate from the deadbolt or doorknob. If there are screws holding the faceplate then use a screwdriver to remove it. Next, use a flat head screwdriver to take off the interior faceplate. After https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/weymouth-window-lock-repairs-near-me/ have removed the faceplate, you can remove the bolt and screw from inside the lock cylinder. A locksmith can tell you whether you require a replacement or rekey the lock. They can also give you advice about the best security options for your home. They can also make any needed adjustments to the door or frame to ensure that it is a perfect fit. They will also provide a guarantee on their work. You must purchase a new lock key before you can rekey it. It is crucial to use the right key inside the lock. Using an incorrect key could damage the internal mechanism and prevent it from functioning. Insert the key into the lock to test its size. If the key is completely against the plug then it's the right size. If the pins extend from the top of plug, then they are too long. You might want to change your door lock for a variety of reasons, such as: If you're moving into a former homeowner's house or have lost your keys, rekeying the lock can be a more affordable option than replacing it. It's also less expensive than a complete replacement. However, there are certain situations in which rekeying your existing lock isn't possible. If the lock has been damaged or jammed repeatedly, for example it could be time to replace it.