How to Do a Door Lock Change
Change your door lock is an easy and affordable way to improve the security of your home. However, the procedure isn't for everyone. It requires a certain amount of patience and expertise.
The cylinder is contained within the knob body. The cylinder is responsible to recognize the key when it is inserted in the lock.
Removing the old lock
First, remove the lock you have been using for a while. replacement window locks repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk 's a straightforward process, however you must keep certain things in your mind. Make sure that the new lock fits the door. This will ensure that it fits snugly and does not leave a gap around the latch or deadbolt plug.
Once you have removed the latch plate, look for two bolts or screws on the inside of the casing that hold the casing and the two halves of the lock together. Take these screws off using a screwdriver before removing the lock off the door. If you are using a mortise locking system, there is a set screw that holds the handle to the spindle. Use a screwdriver to unscrew this screw, then remove the doorknobs.
You should also remove the latch and deadbolt plug from the hole in the 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 fit.
It is possible to replace your lock for a variety reasons, for instance, the possibility that someone else is holding the key or if you have a new roommate. You could save money if you remove the lock yourself instead of paying a professional. It is much easier than you think and can be completed in a matter of minutes.
Remove the trim and handle of your door. Then, pry the trim off with a flat screwdriver. You will be able to pull off the majority of it and in certain cases the handles could come off completely. Next, look for a pinhole on the inside of the handle and insert straightened clips into it. This will trigger the release mechanism, allowing you to remove the handle. Look for a small tab on the interior of the lock and press it with a flat screwdriver. Once the spindle has been removed, you are able to remove the cylinder and the housing.
The choice of a new locking system
There are a lot of options available when it comes time to pick a new lock. Consider different kinds of locks, and find one that matches the style of your door. Think about the backset (the distance between the door's edge and the center of the hole in the lock) and the cross bore (small hole in the frame of the door frame). Select a lock that is suitable for the door thickness and the swing.

The American National Standards Institute and BHMA have graded most door locks to give an idea of their durability and the difficulty to pick them or disable them. A grade 3 lock could be the best choice for a peaceful suburban apartment complex, whereas an entry grade lock could hold up better to the traffic at a busy storefront on a busy city street.
Most smart door locks require a digital key code to open. If you're concerned about hacking or other security concerns you should consult a professional locksmith or your local police department for assistance.
Replacing the cylinder
If your door lock cylinder is damaged or broken you can repair it in just a few minutes using a simple DIY project. It is essential to choose the correct cylinder and follow all instructions. First, you must remove the handle or knob if it is present. Then, using a screwdriver, take off the trim around the lock cylinder. After the trim is removed, it is possible to remove the screws holding the cylinder in place using the flathead. The cylinder can then be gently removed from the door.
Before installing the new cylinder, you must make sure that it's the correct length for your door. Take a measurement of the distance from the center to the right and left sides of the cylinder using a tape measure. Then, purchase a new cylinder with the same measurements. This will prevent cylinders from snapping when the door is kicked or the key becomes stuck inside.
Place the replacement cylinder inside the door and then turn the key. This will ensure that the cylinder is in alignment with the carrier, which is usually located on the outside of the lock. Then, loosen the set screws, which should be just a couple of turns inside the head. It is also necessary to loosen the screw on the door's edge that holds the case in place, should there be one.
After you have removed the lock cylinder and replacing it with the new lock by sliding the new cylinder into the case and tightening the set screw. Installing the part that connects the cylinder to the stem of a lock indicator is also essential. You can do this by pulling three small tabs on the back of the cylindrical using needle-nosed pliers. Then, you'll be able to attach the second bracket to the back of the cylinder. Then, you should reinstall the strike plate and latch plate, along with the retaining rings connected to the top of the lock cylinder.
Installing the new lock
Begin by measuring the door's width if are replacing an existing lock. Most residential locksets come with a thickness of 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches. If your door is more than 1 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches, you'll need a stronger door kit. This will require longer screws, or an extended spindle extension or the tail piece for door knobs.
The majority of locks come with a detailed installation guide to aid you. Take the time to read the instructions prior to beginning the process to make sure that you've followed all of the necessary steps. The manual will give you a good idea of the level of skill that is required to finish 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 good idea to 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 put in the area. It also protects against potential damage from rust dirt, and grime. SECURAM Touch comes with a strip of painter's tape, which is designed to be used for this purpose, however you can also use gaffer's tape or masking tape if you have it available.
Once you've removed the screws holding the interior portion of the lock section to the outside side, pull it straight away. This must be done quickly to avoid the lock from accidentally closing and damaging the mechanism.
If the new lock comes with an internal latch bolt, insert the new bolt into the upper cross bore. Make sure that you put it in the correct place, which is usually marked by an illustration on the faceplate. Then, screw the latch plate onto the bolt.
Screw the deadbolt to the jamb on the door. Test the deadbolt by throwing it a few times to ensure that it is extended all the way into the strike plate and is completely secure. If you're using an electronic smart lock, be sure to follow the instructions for programming it. This involves downloading an app, registering your e-mail address, verifying your identity and connecting to the wireless network to connect your device.