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How to Do a Door Lock Change

Door lock change is a simple and affordable way to improve your home security. However, the procedure is not for everyone. It requires a certain amount of patience and skill.

It is necessary to replace the cylinder that is inside the knob's body. The cylinder is responsible for recognizing the key as it is inserted in the lock.

Remove the old lock

First, remove the lock that was previously in place. It's a straightforward process, however it is important to keep some things in your mind. First, ensure that the lock you choose to install is the correct size for the door you have. This will ensure that it fits securely and doesn't leave a gap in the deadbolt plug or latch.

Once you have removed the latch plate look for two screws or bolts on the inside of the casing, which connect the casing and halves of the lock together. Remove these screws using the help of a screwdriver, and then remove the lock off the door. If you have a mortise lock, there could be a set screw located at the base of the handle, which binds it to the spindle. Take off the doorknobs by removing this screw using the help of 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 lock you should also determine the distance between the lock case and the door's edge to ensure that your new lock will be able to fit.

There are a variety of reasons that could prompt you to change your door lock, such as being concerned that someone else may have the key, or you are welcoming the arrival of a new roommate. You can save money if you take the lock off yourself instead of paying an expert. The process is simpler than many people think, and it can be completed in just a few minutes.

Start by taking the handle and trim from your door. With a flat screwdriver remove the trim. You will be able to pull off the majority of it, and in certain cases the handles may fall off entirely. Then, check the handle for a tiny pinhole on the interior side and insert a straightened clip into it. This will trigger the release mechanism and allow you to remove the handle from the door. Then, look on the interior side of the lock for another small tab, and then press it using a flat screwdriver. After replacing window locks is removed, you can then remove the housing and cylinder.

Selecting a new lock

There are a lot of options available when it comes to selecting the right lock. Take a look at various types of locks and find one that matches the style of your door. Take into consideration the backset (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). Select a lock that is suitable for the door's thickness and swing.

Most door locks are evaluated by BHMA and the American National Standards Institute to provide you with an idea of how they stand up to use and how difficult they are to disable or pick. A lock of grade 3 could be perfect for a quiet apartment building in the countryside, whereas locks of grade 1 may be better suited to a busy street near an open-air storefront.

Most smart door locks require digital code to open. If you're worried about security breaches or hacking seek out an expert locksmith or your local police department for assistance.

Replacing the cylinder

If the cylinder of your door lock is damaged or broken you can repair it within a matter of minutes with a simple do-it-yourself project. It is important to select the correct cylinder and follow all instructions. First, remove the knob or handle, if it is present. Then using a screwdriver remove the trim that is around the lock cylinder. After the trim is removed, you can access the screws that secure the cylinder and remove them using a flathead screwdriver. The cylinder can then be gently removed from the door.

Be sure to take measurements of the length of the new cylinder prior to installing it. Find the distance from the center to the right and left sides of the cylinder with an instrument. Buy a new cylinder that has the same measurements. This will stop the cylinder from snapping, which can occur when the door is kicked out or when the key is stuck inside.

Insert the replacement cylinder in the door, and then turn the key. This will align the cylinder with the carrier which is typically on the outside of the lock. Then, you can loosen the set screw, which should be a few turns in the head. Also, you will need to loosen the screw on the door's edge that holds the case in place, in the event that there is one.

After removing the lock cylinder after which you can replace it with a new lock by slipping the new cylinder into the case and tightening the set screw. The process of reinstalling the component that connects the cylinder to an indicator stem for a lock is also important. It is done by pulling three small tabs in the back of the cylindrical using needle-nosed pliers. Then, you'll be able to attach the remaining smaller bracket to the back of the cylinder. Then, you must put back in the strike plate and latch plate, as well as the retaining ring that is connected to the top of the lock cylinder.

Installing the new lock

Start by measuring the width of your door if you are replacing an existing lock. Most locksets for residential use are designed for doors with a thickness of 1 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches. If your door is thicker than 1 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches, you'll need a thicker door kit. This will require longer screws and either a longer spindle extension or tail piece for door knobs.


The majority of locks come with a detailed instruction manual to assist you in installing the new hardware. Before you begin, go through the instructions to make sure you've followed the steps. The guide will also provide you with an idea of the level of skill required to complete the task. If you're changing locks for the first time, you might need to seek out an experienced person for help.

It's a great idea tape the openings in the old lock before installing the new lock. This will prevent the screws from falling out of the holes, and will protect any tile you might have installed in the area. It also protects against possible damage caused by rust, grime, dirt and. SECURAM Touch includes a strip of masking or gaffer tape, however you can use any tape you own.

After you have removed the screws holding the interior portion of the lock section to the exterior side immediately, pull it back. It is important to do this swiftly to avoid the lock from closing itself in a way that could end up damaging the mechanism.

Install the new latch bolt into the upper cross bore of your new lock, if it has one. Make sure that you place it in the proper position, which is marked by an arrow. Then, screw the latch plate onto the bolt.

Finally, screw the deadbolt and strike plate into the door jamb. Test the deadbolt by throwing it a few times to ensure that it is extended all the way into the strike plate and is secure. If you're using an electronic smart lock, be sure to follow the included instructions to program it. This involves downloading an app, registering your e-mail address, verifying you identity, and connecting to the wireless network in order to connect your device.

Member since: Saturday, September 21, 2024

Website: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/christchurch-window-lock-repairs-near-me/

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