How to Choose a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are your home's primary security component. When they wear out or are damaged, it's time to replace them.
The change of locks can be a great method to refresh your decor or add an additional sense of security following a divorce or blended family. Learn how to install a new lock.
Replacement vs. Rekeying
The change of locks can increase the security of a property. It is crucial to consider the pros and cons of replacing versus rekeying locks.
In general, rekeying is the better option for those not looking to replace their entire lockset. It's a quicker and cheaper process than replacing completely your locks, since it is only changing the internal key pins within the cylinder, and not swapping out the whole lock. Rekeying locks can allow them to operate with new keys. This will nullify the previous keys and make it difficult for anyone else to gain entry into your home or office.
This is a popular choice for new homeowners who want to ensure that previous owners or anyone else with a copy of the key isn't able to enter without being 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 can only provide limited security benefits. It's not much to deter people from physically attempting to get into your home, and it does nothing to stop them if they manage to get into your home in any way. If you're concerned about this, you ought to consider changing to a deadbolt instead of rekeying your locks.
Rekeying locks can be required in the event that your locks have been stolen. This is a frequent issue for businesses, and it's important to act fast if it happens. Rekeying your locks can stop thieves from having access to the sensitive areas of your company. It also makes it easier to file a police report if there is a problem.
The best reason to change your locks is if they're damaged or damaged beyond repair. This could be as easy as a bolt stuck that won't budge or a damaged handle that won't let you open. It may also be an excellent idea to swap your locks if they're constructed of poor quality hardware that can be easily tampered with, such as a door knob or lever with spring-loaded latches which can be easily bypassed with a credit card.
Take a look at your door
It is essential to be aware of the dimensions of your door before you can choose the lock. You can measure these dimensions with an instrument like a tape or pen. The measurements you get from using your fingers or an arm's length aren't accurate. First, measure the width of the door from the bottom to the middle to the top. Make sure that you do not include the frame. You can also measure the height from the floor to the threshold (for doors with interior doors) or the top of the inner portion of the frame.
If your door has been drilled for mortise locks you'll need a few extra measurements. The backset is the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the pre-drilled hole. The most commonly used backsets (or 44mm and 55mm) are 1" & 2". Once you've determined where you want your deadbolt you'll need to determine the depth of the hole inside the door that is measured from the edge of the door to the centerline of the latch's the actuating hole for new installations or from the bottom of the door to the top of the lock strike in existing openings.
You'll also have to decide whether your new door will be in-swinging or out-swinging. This is crucial because certain locks require a particular installation technique based on the direction of swing.
It's time to shop for a new lock now that you've got all of your measurements! Keep all your measurements in a secure place and bring them along when you decide to select the lock. This will help you to find the perfect lock for your door and ensure it looks fantastic. Good luck and happy shopping! Contact us if you have any questions! We're always ready to help! We are open from Monday through Saturday, from 10AM to 6PM. We can also be reached via Facebook or Twitter. We hope to hear from you soon!
Find the Lock that is Right for You
You'll want to pick the right lock for your home. The best locks are top-quality and will discourage thieves. Grade 1 locks are the most durable and recommended for front doors.
A good starting point is to visit the manufacturer's website. Most manufacturers will provide full installation instructions, as well as a customer service hotline. They will also give you recommendations on how to install the product in your door. This will give you a good idea of whether or not this is a task you can do it yourself or if you'll require the help of an expert.
If you are installing an entirely new lock, it is important that you choose the right keyhole size. If the hole isn't big enough you'll have to have it expanded or search for an alternative type of lock. You'll also have to consider the thickness of your door as there aren't all deadbolts that fit all doors. They are usually classified as 2 3/8 inches or 2 3/4 inches, but you will need to find a deadbolt that will fit your door.
The lock's materials are important to take into consideration. You don't need to buy an inexpensive lock since it's possible for a burglar to gain entry into your Burlington home. Choose a lock that has the highest rating from the BHMA.
If you have a newer door, you may need to look at the security ratings of your door knob and lever to ensure they are up to your standards. window lock replacements Repair My Windows And Doors is especially true when children are living in the house or previous owners may still have the keys.
Replacing your locks is a relatively easy DIY project. You can replace your locks in less than an hour using the right tools. It's also a great method to freshen up the look of your home without costing you a fortune. You can also rest assured that you and your family are protected.
Install the Lock
Your front door is the entry point to your Burlington, MA, home where you keep what's most important to you. You want to safeguard your family, pets, or things. If a lock isn't doing its job, it's time to replace it.
Replacing your lock is more expensive than simply rekeying it, however, it comes with the benefit of securing your door to the frame. Deadbolts are impossible to pull or pick and the larger bolt makes it harder for a thief to gain access with an axe. If you're not sure what type of lock will work best on your door, consider asking an expert locksmith for help.
Remove the old lock from the door prior to installing the new one. First, remove the screws that secure the handle section to exterior lock sections. Then utilize a screwdriver to pull the two lock halves away. Then, you can take the knob and latch from the door.
Install the new door lock in the correct way. The latch should be set on the latch plate and have an edge that is tapered and is able to fit into the hole for the locking mechanism. Make sure to align the screw holes for the deadbolt and latch on the inside of the door with the rods that receive the latch on the interior side of the door. This will allow screws to be threaded into place properly and stop them from loosening as time passes.
If you're using the same lock, you can leave the latch and strike plate in place. Bring them up to the new lock and then compare the two locks. If they don't match, purchase new locks that are compatible with the original.
Install the lock after having installed the new hardware. Start by putting the deadbolt into its proper place. 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 using the long screws that are included with the new lock.