How To Install and Repair Door Locks

11:53 DIY , Door , Door Locks , home , home decor , home improvement , home tips , tips 0 Comments

1. Know the different types of door lock.  First of all, it’s important to be aware of what type of door lock you have. You could have a handle set door lock, or a set with handles, door latches, lock and knob. You may have a deadbolt lock, which could be a single cylinder or a double cylinder lock. The single cylinder lock could be opened by a key on one side of the door only, while the double cylinder lock could be opened by a key on both sides (in this case, you wouldn’t need a twist knob anymore). Other modern locks include magnetic key locks, which operate by magnet and are thereby impossible to pick; biometric locks, which use fingerprint recognition systems and heavy duty bolts for heightened security. Biometric locks also have the added advantage of you never having to use keys. All you need would be your fingerprints and you’re good to go. Keypad locks are locks that require a number combination for you to open the lock mechanism. By knowing the type of lock you have, you would better be able to know how to do the particular door lock installation and repair job that you would require.
2. Know how to deal with minor door lock troubles. What are some of these commonly-occurring lock problems? One of them is a loose knob. It’s easy enough to remedy, since the main cause of this problem is a loose screw. Just inspect your knob for loose screws, grab your screwdriver and tighten the appropriate screw. Another common problem is a stuck key, or more specifically, a key that breaks leaving part of it inside the lock. First, try pulling out the broken piece with a pair of pliers. However, if you’re not able to get the piece out successfully, you may need to take the lock apart, take out the screws carefully and then it may be easier for you to pick the broken part out. Yet another common problem would be your lock getting sticky due to humidity. What you could do is to put in a bit of graphite powder in the lock – this will serve as a lubricant. Just remember to put in your key a few times in the lock to spread the lubricant around the lock components.
3. Get instructions from reputable websites. Once you find other problems with your lock, research troubleshooting tips depending on your particular lock type and the problem you’re encountering. Some very helpful websites you could check out include diynetwork.com, where you can see step-by-step installation and repair guides for most common lock types. You could also visit lowes.com for more information on different lock hardware and components; hometips.com; and doityourself.com. You could also go to the website of the brand of lock that you purchased: if you have a Master Lock, for example, try out their website at masterlock.com.
4. Get a list of good locksmiths near your area. If you encounter a problem that just seems to be too complicated, or if you have specialized security doors or customized glass doors with special locks, definitely you’d have to consult a professional. After all, you wouldn’t want to risk breaking your lock and thereby worsening its situation. Get a list from bbb.org for certified locksmiths near you.