Reasons to Change Door Lock You can replace your door lock for a variety of reasons, from improving the security of your house to redecorating the entrance. You might also have to change locks if your key is stuck or is difficult to turn. Changing your lock is a simple project that even beginner DIY homeowners can complete. To begin, gather the required materials. Take off the lock that was previously used. Removal of the old lock from the door is an essential step prior to installing the new one. This is particularly important when you suspect that someone else has a key to your home. This is an excellent idea after you've moved into your new home, suffered a break-in or a roommate moved in. It's much easier than you think to complete and can be completed in a matter of minutes. Begin by taking off the screws that secure the deadbolt faceplate onto the door frame. You will need to take off the screws on both sides of the door in order to remove the faceplate. This will let you see the hidden screws and provide you with a better understanding of how to continue with the rest of steps. After you have removed the old faceplate, you'll have to take off 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 to hammer it. If you're using a chisel be careful not to scratch the door frame. Before you take down the old lock, make sure that the new deadbolt and doorknob will fit in the existing holes on the door. A lot of hardware stores and big box stores carry a variety of locks, and can assist you in choosing the right one. If the lock you bought doesn't match your door, send it back and seek help. When you're removing the old lock, look for small depressions or notches in the handle or around the trim. If you are able to locate them, use a straightened safety-pin or a flat screwdriver to open the handle. Once the screw in the handle is removed, you can begin to remove the knob from its spindle. To do this, locate the set screw located at the base of knob and loosen. Next, you will need to remove the knob from the spindle. Finally, carefully remove the spindle from the door. Install the new lock It's a good idea to change locks on doors throughout your home regularly, especially after a burglary or when you move in with roommates. Changing the lock is an affordable, simple and effective method to ensure that your home is safe. With a screwdriver, and a few basic instructions the majority of people can handle it themselves. Depending on your situation, you may also need to learn how to reset a lock so that only you have the key. To start the process, you must purchase a new lock that is compatible with the keyway on your existing lock. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/cheltenham-window-lock-repairs-near-me/ can save money by choosing to rekey the lock yourself. Most locksmiths charge extra to do this. You can purchase a brand new lock at an hardware store, or on the internet. 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 come with a diagram that will show you how to install it on the door. This template can be used to drill the hole. It's a lot easier than having to measure each time. If the template doesn't match to your hole then you should return it to the hardware store and get an alternative. When installing the new lock, you must remember to put it on the right side of the door. Check the latch. It should have a label that reads "up" or similar. Make sure the latch is correctly seated on the plate, and then secure it using the provided screws. When replacing the knob lock, you should also be aware of its handing. Some knob locks are right-handed. If you're not careful, you could put the knob on the wrong side of the door, which will prevent you from locking it from inside or outside. It is recommended to test the new lock after 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 the key. If you're not satisfied with the results then you can always call an expert locksmith to fix the issue. Test the lock A door lock that isn't able to be opened can be a nuisance and can be dangerous, it could also put your family's safety at risk. Luckily, it's easy to fix most issues with door locks by doing some troubleshooting, and lubrication. Check that the key is properly cut, and that the lock assembly isn't dirty or loose. If this doesn't fix the problem, you can try to lubricate the door lock actuator with powdered graphite or a silicone-based oil. Then, make sure that the door lock switch, the wiring harnesses, and the actuator connector are working properly. To check this, consult the manual or wiring diagram to determine the purpose and color-coding for all the door lock switch wires. Use a test light or digital meter to determine whether the door lock actuator is receiving power and ground when the switches are activated. If you see an electrical voltage switch with each switch's activation, it means the switches are working and it's likely the actuator that needs to be replaced. If the switch appears to work but the actuator does not move when you turn it, there may be a problem with the cylinder. The actuator cylinder is outfitted with pins that are spring-loaded. They prevent the cylinder from moving until the key is put in, and then they push them upwards to match the height of the key at that location. This causes the cylinder eventually to rotate opening the lock body and opening the handle latch. If the door lock actuator still not functioning, you can remove it using a small screwdriver. You will need to loosen the bolt that locks it first and then take off the plastic cover that houses the electrical connector. Then, disconnect the door lock actuator and let it fall. Then, you should be able to find the two 10mm bolts that hold the actuator in place, and remove them. Once the actuator has been removed then you can disconnect the black electrical connector. Replace the key If your deadbolt that is keyed or door knob is not working, you will have to reset it or replace it. This is not difficult and could save you money. It is best to have an expert locksmith examine the locks for any issues before you start. This will give you peace of mind that your home is secure and safe. To begin, remove the exterior faceplate from the doorknob or deadbolt. There may be screws that are holding it in place, then use a screwdriver loosen them and pull the faceplate away. Then, you can remove the inside faceplate using a flat-head screwdriver. After you have removed the faceplate, you can remove the screw and bolt from the lock cylinder. A locksmith can help determine if the existing lock needs to be replaced or rekeyed. They can also give you suggestions on the most secure measures for your home. They can also make the necessary modifications to your door and frame to ensure the perfect fit. They will also offer the guarantee on their work. You must purchase a new lock key before you can rekey it. It's important to use the right key within the lock. If you use a key that isn't right, it could cause damage to the mechanism inside and stop it from functioning. Insert the key into the lock to verify its size. If the key sits completely against the plug then it's the correct size. If the pins stick up from the top of the plug, then they are too long. There are many reasons you might want to change your door lock, including: Rekeying locks is a cheaper option than replacing it if you are moving into the home of an owner who has passed away or if keys have been lost. It's also less expensive than a full replacement. Rekeying an existing lock may not be possible in certain situations. For example, if the lock is damaged or repeatedly blocked, it's to be time to replace it.