7 Things You'd Never Know About Replacement Door Locks

When to Invest in Replacement Door Locks There are a variety of signs that could indicate it's time to consider replacing your door locks. The signs of rust, difficulty working them, or the trauma of a home burglary are all clear indications that it's time to upgrade. A common reason for changing locks is to improve security or to add convenience. There are five indicators that indicate it's time to replace, not change the locks on your door: 1. Mechanical Deterioration Even the most durable locks can fail over time, particularly when they are exposed to heavy use or are subjected to environmental stresses like corrosion or rust. Whether the mechanical deterioration is due to aging, exposure to the elements, or improper installation, it is important to address it immediately as any failure can put your home at risk of being a target for burglars. Maintenance of locks is not usually on most people's list of priorities but it is vital to ensure your security. It can also decrease the necessity for replacements in the future. Regularly making sure that you tighten loose screws and lubricate them will prolong the lifespan of your locks. Common signs of deterioration to the mechanical include a difficult-to-turn key and a lock that is stuck or jams, as well as misalignment between the strike plate and the latch. Most of these issues are easily fixed with DIY fixes. However they should be viewed as warning signs that the door lock is at its expiration date and should be replaced. Locks are exposed to a number of environmental stresses, such as dust, dirt and moisture. Coastal homes, for example are often prone to rapid degradation as air with a higher salt content can speed up the onset of rust and corrosion. Utilizing locks made of weatherproof materials and ensuring regular cleaning and lubrication will aid in reducing the effects, but these measures are not infallible and it's vital to upgrade to replacement locks for doors that are resistant to wear and wear and tear. Whatever the reason for your lock's deterioration it is important to act immediately you notice an issue. The longer you delay longer, the more likely it is that your lock will fail, and the more expensive it will cost to repair. Fortunately fixing your door lock is fairly easy. Begin by removing your knobs for your door. Take off the screws that secure them to the lock. They are typically Philips screws. Then take off the two screws that secure each latch into the edge of the door. 2. Problems with Locking or Unlocking It's time to replace your door locks if they are having difficulty locking or unlocking them. Over time, dirt and grime build up in locks, causing them to function slower. The keyhole may also become blocked. You can restore the smooth operation of your lock by using a graphite-based oil. Additionally, many residential locks also have different “keyways” that have a particular shape of the keyhole that allows them function. For instance, Kwikset and Schlage locks are typically not interchangeable because their keyways do not match up. If this is the situation for your home then a new lock can allow you to use the same key as the rest of your home locks, making it more convenient. You might also discover that your keys are damaged inside the lock. This could be a huge issue. A burglar can easily open your lock and open it, especially if the break-in is planned. A locksmith will be able replace your lock and ensure that only your own keys are able to unlock it. Locks on your doors are the first line of defense to protect you from burglars and other intruders. When upgrading the security of your home, you must start with locks. The change of your locks is an easy, inexpensive upgrade that keeps your family members safe and secure. If you are moving into a new home it is an ideal idea to change the locks on your existing home. It is impossible to know how many sets of keys were distributed by previous owners. It is important to know that you can trust those who live with you. However, there is always the possibility that they do not have keys. Installing new locks will provide you with security and stop others from accessing your home. This will safeguard you in the event that your home is sold. 3. Home Intrusion The locks on your home provide your first line of protection against burglars and intruders. They protect you during an attack, while you are inside taking a bath or sleeping, or even while you are going on vacation. For security in your home, it's important to have locks that are of high quality. However, at times, the locks might need to be replaced because they're not functioning as well as they should. It's not a good idea to only have one set of keys. If you're moving to an entirely new home or your current locks have been damaged, it's a good idea to replace them with a new set of locks to ensure you and your family members are the only ones to access your home. Change your locks to snap-proof versions if you've recently experienced a break-in. Home renovations typically include the replacement of windows, locks, or doors. It's not uncommon for contractors to get into your home with a duplicate key to the lock. Even when you are able to trust your contractor, it's possible that they could have handed the key over to an untrustworthy subcontractor or friend. It is a cost-effective way to ensure you have sole access to your home following the completion of a renovation. You should consider upgrading your locks to a smart lock. This electronic lock lets you manage the door from anywhere by using a mobile application. It lets you to create unique one-time codes for guests, set up timed automatic locking, and more. Our locksmiths can assist you to install a high-tech lock that's suitable for your needs. door lock repairs merton repairmywindowsanddoors can feel safe at home with the right locks. You can rest assured that your home is secure by ensuring that your locks work correctly, strengthen the door frames and put in other security measures. Contact us today to learn more about the different types of locks and accessories that we offer for your safety. 4. Damage Like any products with moving parts, door locks also endure wear and wear and. If you notice the obvious signs of rusting and tarnish, it may be time to invest in replacement door locks. Rust can harm the internal mechanisms of the lock which makes it difficult to turn it or unlock it. Another indication that it's time for you to change your locks is if they're beginning to stick or bind. This can be due to various issues, such as structural settling or damage from moisture. This can also be caused by incorrect key use or lack of lubrication. The best solution to fix this issue is to replace the faulty lock. Door lock issues could be dangerous. A damaged lock can make you vulnerable to burglars and home intruders who are seeking the quickest way into your home. Locks that are modern and more durable are more difficult to jam, and provide greater resistance to burglars. If you recently terminated a roommate or rental agreement, it's likely that you'll need to alter the locks on your door. In this case, you should enlist the help of a locksmith to change the locks. This service merely changes the key that operates the lock, and you'll have to replace any spare keys you have in your possession. When you're changing your door locks, it's important to understand the procedure. A complete replacement requires the removal of the handle or knob, latch, and deadbolt. To ensure that you don't damage your door or the door frame, it's important to remove the old hardware with caution. After removing the old hardware then mark the location of your new handle/knob/latch by using an outline provided to you by the manufacturer. The security of your home is of the utmost importance. A broken lock system is a safe haven for thieves and burglars. You can keep a reliable and functional lock system all year long by understanding the most frequent reasons to change your door locks.