Door Locks: Installation & Repair

Everything you need to know from instructions to tools and types of locks.

Door Locks: Installation & Repair

Installing a door lock is a pretty straightforward process, but there are a few things you need to know before you get started. By the end of this article, you should feel confident enough to tackle this project on your own!

Key in door lock of open door.

Door Locks: The Benefits

When it comes to door locks, there are many different types and installation methods to choose from. But what are the benefits of installing a door lock? Here are just a few:

- added security: This is perhaps the most obvious benefit of installing a door lock. By making it more difficult for intruders to enter your home, you can help keep your family safe.

- peace of mind: Knowing that your home is better protected can give you peace of mind, especially when you're away from home.

- insurance savings: Some insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners who have installed certain types of door locks. So, not only can you help protect your home, but you may also be able to save money on your insurance premiums.

Types of Door Locks

There are many different types of door locks available on the market, so it's important to choose the right one for your needs. Here is a brief overview of some of the most popular types of door locks:

Deadbolts: Deadbolts are one of the most common and effective types of door locks. They are usually installed above the doorknob and require a key to lock and unlock.

Doorknobs: Doorknobs are another common type of door lock, and they come in both keyed and non-keyed varieties. Keyed doorknobs have a small hole in the center of the knob where you insert a key to lock or unlock the door. Non-keyed doorknobs can be locked from the inside with a thumb turn, but they cannot be locked from the outside.

Lever Handles: Lever handles are a type of door handle that can be found on both residential and commercial doors. They can be locked with a key or with a thumb turn on the inside of the door.

Knob Locks: Knob locks are similar to doorknobs, but they have a round knob instead of a flat one. Like do

Red, rusted door handle on barn door.

How to Choose the Right Door Lock for your Home

There are many different types of door locks available on the market today. How do you know which one is right for your home? Here are a few things to consider when choosing a door lock:

- The type of door you have (wood, metal, etc.)

- The level of security you need

- Your budget

Once you've considered these factors, you can narrow down your choices and select the best door lock for your home.

Tools you Will Need for Door Lock Installation or Repair

If you're planning on installing or repairing a door lock, there are a few tools you'll need to get the job done. Here's a quick rundown of what you'll need:

- A screwdriver. This is probably the most essential tool for any door lock installation or repair. You'll need it to remove the old lock (if you're replacing it) and to attach the new one.

- A drill. You'll need this if you're installing a new door lock from scratch.

- A hammer. This can be helpful for getting the old lock out, if it's stubborn.

- A saw. This will be necessary if you're cutting through any wood to install the new lock.

- A chisel. This might also come in handy for getting the old lock out or for making any adjustments to the door itself during installation.

- A level. This is important to make sure that your new door lock is installed perfectly straight.

These are just some of the basic tools you'll need for a door lock installation or repair. Make sure you have everything on hand before you start the job so that it goes smoothly! Once you're gathered your tools, they can be put in storage until needed again. We highly suggest adding door lock maintenance to your Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklist to catch any security breaches or signs of damage before they become more complex and costly.

Hand opening electric door handle to hotel room.

How to Install a Door Lock

If you're looking to install a new door lock, there are a few things you'll need to keep in mind. First, you'll need to determine what type of lock you need. There are many different types of locks on the market, so it's important to choose one that will best suit your needs. Once you've chosen the right lock, you'll need to follow these steps for a successful installation:

1. Begin by removing the old lock from the door. You'll need to use a screwdriver or other tool to remove the screws that hold the lock in place.

2. With the old lock removed, you can now install the new one. Start by attaching the new lock's baseplate to the door using screws or another type of fastener.

3. Next, insert the bolt into the hole in the doorframe and secure it in place with the provided screws.

4. Finally, test the new lock to make sure it's working properly. Try both locking and unlocking it to ensure smooth operation.

Common Door Lock Repairs

Door locks are one of the most important security features in your home, so it’s important to keep them in good working order. Here are some common door lock repairs that you may need to do:

-Tightening loose screws: Over time, the screws that hold your door lock in place can become loose, which can cause the lock to become misaligned. Simply tighten the screws with a screwdriver to fix this problem.

-Replacing worn out parts: If your door lock is starting to stick or not work as smoothly as it used to, it may be time to replace some of the parts. You can purchase replacement parts at most hardware stores.

-Lubricating the lock: If your door lock is sticking, it may just need to be lubricated. Use a multipurpose lubricant such as WD-40 and spray it into the keyhole. Then insert and remove your key a few times to work the lubricant into the mechanism.

Blue doors with silver knobs and hardware.

What To Do When your Door Lock Breaks

If your door lock breaks, don't panic! Door locks and hardware related to them can require more maintenance than you'd think because of how often they are used. There are some easy steps you can take to fix common problems. First, try to determine what caused the break. If it was simply wear and tear, you may be able to replace just the broken part. However, if the break was caused by force, like a kick or a slam, you may need to replace the entire lock.

Once you know what needs to be replaced, head to your local hardware store or home improvement center. They should have everything you need to make the repair. If you're not sure how to install the new lock, don't worry - most locks come with clear instructions. And if you get really stuck, you can always call a professional locksmith.

Hire a Professional to Install or Repair Door Locks!

If your door locks are damaged or not working properly, it's important to hire a professional to repair or replace them. Door locks are a vital part of your home security, so it's important to make sure they're in good working order. A professional locksmith can install or repair any type of door lock, from deadbolts to electronic keyless entry systems.