Choosing a Front Door Replacement Lock
Your front door locks provide your home's first line defense. It's essential to have sturdy locks, especially if you've recently moved or suffered a break-in.
Be sure to consider durability, security and design when selecting a replacement front door lock. Learn how to make an informed choice for your home by continuing reading.
Security
When choosing the right front door lock replacement security is the primary factor. A high-quality door lock will guard your family from break-ins and will prevent entry by unauthorized persons. There are numerous locking options available, including multi-point lock systems that protect the door using multiple points. Insurance companies prefer these locks due to the fact that they are harder to break into. Smart locks are another option, which connect to a smartphone app that allows keyless entry and remote locking/unlocking. They are popular with homeowners who want to manage their home's security using the mobile device or a virtual assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant.
You can increase the security of your home by installing an appropriate lock that is safe and secure. For instance, you can install the door alarm to discourage potential burglars and a wide angle peephole so you can see who is at the door before opening it. You can also purchase door reinforcements to make it more difficult for burglars to strike the door. They are usually nickel or steel reinforcements that are wrapped around hinges as well as locks, screws, and hinges to help make it harder for burglars to attack your door.
repairmywindowsanddoors is essential to ensure that the new lock you have chosen for your front door is put in place correctly. It is important to make sure that the latch bolt fits perfectly within the strike plate and that the screws are correctly tightened. It is also recommended to test your lock to make sure it operates correctly and securely.
A faceplate is a plate that covers the cylinder of a lock to protect it from damage caused by drilling or other methods. They can be found on the outside or inside of your door. They are usually used in conjunction with a deadbolt and a latch. A faceplate can be purchased separately from the lock or as a part of a complete lock kit. These can be found at a local locksmith or hardware store.
Remember that even the most secure front door lock could be compromised by someone who is determined to enter your home. It is essential to ensure that your doors and windows are always secure. Also, you should install a good lighting system outside and educate your family members about safe home security practices.
Durability
If you decide to go with a smart lock such as an electronic lock or traditional knobs for doors that are keyed or lever, your door locks should be strong enough to withstand countless closings and openings. They should be sturdy, resistant to the elements and resist attempts to break-in. Pay attention to the inside structure when selecting the right front door lock replacement. There are a number of different types to choose from, but the safest options are deadbolt locks, levers or knobs for doors that feature multi-point locking.
When choosing a front door replacement lock, make sure that the lock is compatible with your existing hardware. You'll need to use the same key to open all the locks on your doors at home. If you move into a new residence or apartment, one of the first things you should do is replace the old hardware and put in the new lock. Changing the lock will help you identify who has a key prior to and will keep you and your family secure in your new home.
If you're replacing a knob lever lock you can easily take off the exterior cylinder by loosening the set screw that holds it in place, and then turning it counterclockwise. Then, you can remove your thumbturn to release the lock cylinder. The procedure of changing to a deadbolt can be more complicated, but not too difficult. Once you have the doorknob off you can remove the strike plate by taking out the screws or nails that hold it in place. Look inside the door's frame for the hole that holds the cylinder and loosen the set screw that is holding it in place.
Once the cylinder is removed, you can take off the latch mechanism and replace it with a new strike plate that matches the dimensions of the holes in the door and the cylinder. Test the lock from both the outside and the inside before tightening the new strike plates. You should be able easily lock and unlock your door, and the latch should snap into the strike plate when it is engaged.
Appearance
Your front door isn't only a security element it's also an integral part of the overall look of your home. If your front-door lock is outdated, boring or doesn't match the overall design style it's time to change to a more fashionable alternative.
A new lock can give your home new, contemporary appearance that complements your door's color and hardware. A quick visit to an improvement store or a professional locksmith can help you find the right replacement door handle set and lock to match your interior design.
The first step is to remove the lock on the door knob that is currently in place. This can be accomplished by loosening the set screw that secures the knobs, then unscrewing the knobs and taking off the plate. If you have an e-lock on the side of the door, take out the latch from the knob plate. Finally, take out the two screws that hold the deadbolt strike plate as well as latch plate to the jamb.
Measure your door before you purchase locks to ensure it's suitable. Note the dimensions of your door's cross-bore as well as backset, as well as its height and thickness. It may be necessary to hire a professional locksmith to install an extra-thick door. In addition, consider whether you would like an attractive trim plate (also known as rose) to cover the lock mechanism. These are available in many different designs and finishes that will complement the aesthetics of your home.
Budget
The kind of front door lock you select can have an impact on your budget. Certain locks are expensive, while others are fairly inexpensive. You should also take into consideration what the total cost of your project is prior to making the decision. It is crucial to find the appropriate balance between your safety and your wallet.
A deadbolt lock can add another layer of security to your home and is a great option for your back or front door. This will help prevent burglaries since exterior doors are popular entry points for burglars. Installing this lock is going to cost between $100 and $225, but it will protect your home and reduce your homeowner's premium.
Another option that is inexpensive is a handleset that includes door knobs and a deadbolt. These are often easier to open than levers for doors and can be purchased in different styles and colors to match your style. They're usually ADA-compliant, which means they comply with the requirements of the American Disability Act for people with disabilities. They're also simple to install and are a great benefit for homeowners who want to cut down on the cost of installation.
If you are replacing a lock that you have, look for a mortise or tubular lock that will fit into the same holes. These locks are more common and are generally cheaper than high-end smart ones. They can cost a few hundred dollars or more based on the model. Some locksmiths inflate prices to increase their estimates, so be sure to research the prices of both options prior to making a decision.
A new front door lock can give your home a fresh look and increase the value of your property. When you are choosing the right lock it is important to think about the dimensions of your door, the type of lock you need and whether it has a deadbolt or keypad. Then, you can choose the lock that will best suit your needs and budget.