How to Choose a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are your home's most important security component. If they get worn out or become compromised it's time to replace them.
It's also a great way to update your interior decor, or provide the feeling of security that comes with a divorce or an unmarried family. Learn how to install a new lock.
Replacement vs. Rekeying
Changing your locks can improve the security of your home. There are pros and cons to replacing locks, versus rekeying one, though, so it's important to consider your alternatives carefully.
Rekeying is the best option if you don't need to replace the entire lockset. It's a quicker and less expensive alternative to replacing the entire lockset as you only need to change the pins inside the cylinder. Rekeying your locks can make them operate with a brand new set of keys, nullifying the previous ones and making it harder for those with access to gain entry into your business or home.
This is a common option for homeowners who are new and want to ensure that the previous owners or anyone else who has copies of the keys can't enter without getting arrested. It's also helpful for those who are concerned about a rogue employee at the office, as it can be used to prevent them from accessing sensitive information or areas of the building.
Rekeying has limited benefits for security. Rekeying does not do much to deter people from physically forcing their way into a home but it won't stop them if they manage to get in anyway. If you're concerned about this, consider changing to a deadbolt instead of rekeying your locks.
Another scenario where you may want to think about changing your locks is if you've been the victim of theft. This is a common event for businesses, and it's crucial to act swiftly if this happens. Rekeying your locks will stop thieves from having access to the sensitive areas of your company. It also makes it easier for you to submit a police report if something goes wrong.
The best reason to replace locks is if they're damaged or broken beyond repair. This can be as simple as a stuck bolt that isn't moving or a damaged handle that won't let you open. It could also be an ideal idea to swap your locks if they're made of cheap hardware that is easily altered, such as the door knob or lever with spring-loaded latches that can be easily bypassed using a credit card.
Take a look at your door
Before you pick a lock, you have to know the dimensions you're working with. The best method to determine these is to use a tape measure and pencil or pen. The measurements you get from using your fingers or arm's-length are inaccurate. Measure the width of the opening from the top, middle and bottom. Do not include the frame. You can also determine the height from the floor to the threshold (for interior doors) or to the top of the inner portion of the frame.
If your door is predrilled for a mortise locking system you'll need to measure it further. The backset is the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hole that was pre-drilled. The most popular backsets (or 44mm and 55mm) are 1" and 2". After you've chosen where you want your deadbolt you'll need to determine the depth of the hole in the door, which is measured from the top of the door to the centerline of the latch's opening for actuation in new installations or from the bottom of the door to the top of the strike in existing openings.
You'll also need to decide whether your new door will be in-swinging or out-swinging. This is crucial since some locks require a particular installation method that is based on the direction of swing.
It's time to go shopping for a replacement lock now that you've got all of your measurements! Keep all of your measurements in a secure place and bring them along when you're looking for a lock. This will ensure that you get the right fit and that your door looks fantastic! Good luck shopping and happy shopping! If you have any concerns, feel at ease to reach us! We're always ready to assist! We're open Monday through Saturday from 10AM to 6PM. We can also be reached via Facebook or Twitter. We would love to hear from you!
Find the Right Lock
You'll need to choose the best lock for your home. The best locks are high-graded, and they can deter thieves. Grade 1 locks are regarded as the most durable and are recommended for the front door.
Start by visiting the official website of the manufacturer. Most manufacturers will provide complete installation instructions and have customer support hotlines. They will also have recommendations on how to install their products on your particular door. This will assist you in determining whether it is something you can do on your own or if a contractor will be needed.
If you're installing a new lock it is essential that you have the right keyhole size. If the keyhole is too small, it will need to be expanded or you may need to consider the design of your lock. Also, you'll need to consider the size of your door since there aren't all deadbolts that fit all doors. They're typically rated at 2 3/8 inches or 2 3/4 inches but you will need to find a deadbolt that fits your door.
Another thing to keep in mind is the materials that are used in the lock. You do not want to purchase an inexpensive lock that could be a simple target for thieves to gain entry to your Burlington, MA, home. Look for a lock with the highest rating from BHMA.
If Repair My Windows And Doors have a brand new door, you might want to examine the security ratings of the lever and knob to ensure they meet your standards. This is especially true when there are children in the house, or if the previous owners still have keys.
Replacing your locks is a relatively simple DIY project. You can replace your locks in less than an hour with the right tools. This is a fantastic method to update the appearance of your home without spending a fortune. You can also rest assured that you and your family are secure.
Install the Lock
Your door is the entrance to your Burlington, MA, home where you keep what's most valuable to you. Whether that's your pets, family members, or possessions, you want to be sure that they are secure. If your lock isn't working properly, it's likely time to replace it.
It is more expensive to replace your lock rather than replace it and you also get the added benefit of locking your door in the frame. A deadbolt is difficult to pick or pull and the length of the bolt makes it more difficult for thieves to gain access using an axe. If you're not certain which type of lock will work best on your door, consider asking an expert locksmith for help.
Before installing your new lock, you'll need to remove the existing one from the door. First, unscrew the screws inside that connect the handle section to the lock sections on the outside. Then you will need a screw driver to break the two halves of the lock apart. Then, remove the old latch and knob from the door.
Install the new door lock correctly. The latch should be positioned 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 with the rods for receiving. This will allow screws to be threaded correctly and prevent them from becoming loose as time passes.
If you're using the same lock, you can leave the latch and strike plate in place. Compare them to the new lock, and if you find that they don't fit you can purchase replacements.
Once you have the new hardware installed now is the time to install the lock. Start by placing the deadbolt in the correct place. Pay special attention to the "up-mark" on the deadbolt. This will help you remember to insert it on the right-hand side of the door. Then, you can screw the interior and exterior plates together with the long screws that are included with the new lock.