How to Choose a Replacement Door Lock
Door locks are your home's primary security element. It's time to change your door locks when they wear out or become compromised.
Changes to locks can also be a great way to update your home decor or give you a new sense of security after a divorce or blended family. Learn how to install a replacement lock.
Replacement vs. Rekeying
The option of changing your locks is a option to increase the security of your property. There are pros and cons of replacing locks versus rekeying them, though, so it's crucial to weigh your choices carefully.
Rekeying is generally the best option for those not looking to replace their entire lockset. It's a faster and less expensive process than replacing completely your locks since it involves changing just the internal key pins within the cylinder, not changing the entire lock. Rekeying locks can make them function with a different set of keys. This will nullify the previous keys and make it difficult for anyone else to gain entry to your office or home.
This is a common option for homeowners who are new and want to ensure that 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 suspicious employee in the office, since it can be used to prevent them from accessing sensitive information or areas of the building.
Rekeying offers limited security benefits. It's not enough to deter people from physically attempting to get into the premises and it doesn't do much to stop them if they succeed in forcing their way into the premises in any way. If you are concerned about this, you should consider upgrading your locks to a deadbolt instead of simply changing their keys.
Another situation in which you might want to consider rekeying your locks is if you've had them stolen. It's a common problem for businesses and it's crucial to act quickly if it happens. By rekeying your locks you'll be able stop those who stole them from accessing sensitive areas within the company, and it will also allow you to have the chance to file police reports in the event that there is a problem.
The most ideal reason to change locks is when they are damaged or broken beyond repair. This could be as easy as a bolt stuck that won't move or a broken handle that isn't opening. It's also an ideal idea to swap out your locks if they're constructed of cheap hardware that is easily altered for example, the door knob or lever with spring-loaded latches that could be easily bypassed with a credit card.
Take a look at your door
Before you pick a lock, you have to know what dimensions you're working with. You can measure these dimensions using an instrument like a tape or pen. Utilizing your fingers or an arm's length measurement is inaccurate and will give you incorrect measurements. Measure the width of the opening from the top, middle and bottom. Be sure not to include the frame. You can also measure from the floor to the threshold (for interior door) or the top of the inner frame.
If your door is predrilled for mortise locking systems, you will need to measure it further. The backset is measured from the edge of the door to the center hole. The most common backsets are 1" and 2" (or 44mm and 57mm). You'll need to measure the depth of the hole in the door after you've decided on the location of your deadbolt. It is measured between the edges of the opening and the centerline of a latch actuating hole in new installations or from the bottom to the top of a strike for openings that are already in place.
Then, you'll have to decide whether your new door is going to be out-swinging or in-swinging. This is important, as certain locks require special installation techniques dependent on the direction of the swing.
It's time to go shopping for a new lock, now that you've got all your measurements! Keep all of your measurements in a safe place and bring them with you when you decide to select the lock. This will help you get the perfect fit for your door and make sure that it looks fantastic. Good luck shopping and happy shopping! If you have any questions, please feel at ease to reach us! We're always ready to assist! We're open Monday through Saturday, from 10AM to 6PM. You can also reach us 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 appropriate lock for your home. The best locks are high-graded and provide a good security measure against potential thieves. Grade 1 locks are the strongest and are recommended for front doors.
Start by visiting the official website of the manufacturer. Most manufactures will offer full installation instructions and also have customer support hotlines. They will also give you recommendations on how to install the product on your door. This will give you an idea of whether this is a task you can handle yourself or if you'll require assistance from an expert.
It is essential to make sure you have the right size of keyhole in order to install a new lock. If the hole is too small it will need to be it enlarged or look for a different type of lock. Also, you'll need to consider the size of your door since not all deadbolts are suitable for all doors. They're usually rated at 2 3/8 inches or 2 3/4 inches however, you'll need to find a deadbolt that is suitable for your door.
The materials used in a lock are also important to consider. You don't need to buy an inexpensive lock as it is possible for burglars to gain entry into your Burlington home. Find an item that is certified with the BHMA (Builder Hardware Manufacturers Association) and has the highest quality rating.
If you have a newer door, you might need to look at the security ratings on your door knob and lever to ensure they are up to your standards. This is especially important for families with children living in the home or the previous owners might still have keys to your home.
Replacing your locks is a relatively simple DIY project. With the appropriate tools and a little bit of knowledge you can change your locks in under an hour. This is a great method to update the appearance of your house without breaking the bank. You can also rest assured that your family and you are secure.
Install the Lock
Your Burlington, MA home is the place where you store your most precious possessions. If it's your pets, family members, or possessions, you want to be sure that they are secure. If your lock isn't working, it's likely time to replace it.
It's more expensive replace your lock than rekey it however, you have the added benefit of locking your door to the frame. A deadbolt is difficult to pull or pick and the larger bolt makes it more difficult for thieves to gain access using an axe. Ask a locksmith for help if you aren't sure what type of lock is right for your door.
Before installing double glazed window lock repairs near me , you'll have to take the old lock out of the door. First, loosen the screws that secure the handle section to exterior lock sections. Then, use a screw driver to pry the two lock halves away. After that, you can remove the knob and latch from the door.
Install the new door lock correctly. The latch should sit in the opening in the latch plate and have a tapered end that fits in the hole for the turning lock. Align the screw holes on the side of your door to align the deadbolt and latch with the rods for receiving. This will allow screws to thread into place properly and prevent them from loosing over time.
If you're using the same lock you can keep the strike plate and latch plate in place. Compare them with the new lock and if you discover that they're not the right fit, buy replacements.
Once you have the new hardware in place It's time to put in the lock. Start by placing the deadbolt in the correct location. Pay special attention to the "up-mark" on the deadbolt. This will help you remember that you're putting it on the right side of the door. Then, screw the inside and exterior plates together with the long screws that are included with the new lock.