Choosing a Front Door Replacement Lock
Your front door locks provide your home's first line of defense. It's crucial to have reliable locks in place, particularly in the event that your home has been recently broken into or you've just moved.
Take into consideration durability, security and style when deciding on a replacement front door lock. Learn how to make a well-informed choice for your home by continuing reading.
Security
Security is the primary consideration when choosing the right lock replacement for your front door. A lock of high-quality will ward off unauthorised entry and safeguard your family from burglaries. There are a range of locking systems to choose from, including multi-point locks that use multiple points to secure the door. Insurance companies favor these locks because they are less prone to being broken into. Smart locks can be controlled remotely and with keyless entry via a smartphone application. They are a favorite among homeowners who want to manage the security of their home using a mobile device or virtual assistants, such as Alexa or Google Assistant.
In addition to choosing the most secure and safe lock, other upgrades can be installed to increase its protection. For instance, you can install the door alarm to discourage potential intruders, and a wide-angle peephole to observe who is at your door before opening it. You can also buy door reinforcements to make it more difficult for burglars to strike the door. They are typically nickel or steel reinforcements that are affixed to hinges and screws to make it harder for criminals to strike your door.
During installation, it's important to ensure that your new front door replacement lock is properly installed. This includes ensuring that the latch bolt fits snugly into the strike plate, and that the screws are securely tightened. It is also recommended to test your lock to be sure it works correctly and securely.
A faceplate is a metal plate that covers the cylinder of a lock to protect it from drilling and other damage. These can be found either on the inside or outside of your door. They are used with a deadbolt and a latch. A faceplate can be purchased separately from the lock or as a part of the complete lock kit. These can be found at a local locksmith or hardware store.
Be aware that even the most secure front door lock could be compromised by someone who is determined to gain entry into your home. This is why you must make it a priority to ensure that your windows and doors are secured at all times, put in good lighting around your home, and teach your family members about safe house practices.
Durability
No matter if you choose an electronic lock, a smart lock or a traditional lever or knob with a key, your entry doors need to be strong enough to withstand many openings. They should be durable, resistant to the elements, and able to withstand attempts to break in. Also, pay attention to the internal structure of the front door replacement lock. There are a myriad of locks available. The most secure ones are deadbolts, door knobs or levers that have multi-point locking.
When choosing a replacement front door lock, make sure that the lock is compatible. You'll want to be able use the same key to open all the doors at your home. If you move into a new residence or apartment, one of the first things you need to do is replace the old hardware and install a new lock. It will help you determine who had a key before and keep you and your family secure in your new home.
If you are replacing a knob or lever lock you can easily take off the cylinder's exterior by loosing the setscrew that holds it in place and rotating it counterclockwise. Then, loosen the thumbturn and remove the lock cylinder. The upgrade process to a deadbolt can be more complex, but not difficult. Once you've removed your doorknob, you can remove it by taking off the screws and nails that secure it. Examine the door frame for a hole that holds the cylinder, then loosen the screws that are that holds the cylinder.
Once the cylinder is removed, you can take off the latch mechanism and replace it with the new strike plate that matches the size of the holes in the door and the cylinder. Before tightening the new strike plates you must try to open it from the outside and then from inside. You should be able to effortlessly lock and unlock your door, and the latch should be able to snap into the strike plate once it is engaged.
Appearance
Your door provides security however, it also plays an important role in the look of your home. If your front door lock looks old-fashioned, boring or doesn't fit with the overall style of your home It's probably time to replace it with something that matches the design of your home.
A new lock can update your home's appearance and complement the color of your door and the hardware. A quick trip to an improvement store or a professional locksmith will assist you in locating the ideal replacement door handle and lock that matches your interior decor.
The first step is to take off the lock on the door knob that is currently in place. This can be accomplished by loosening the set screw that is holding the knobs, then unscrewing the knobs and removing the plate. If you have a thumb lock on the inside of the door, take out the latch from the knob plate. Then, remove the two screws that hold the deadbolt striker plate and latch plate in the jamb.
Measure door lock repairs ewell repairmywindowsanddoors before you purchase the lock to ensure it will fit. Take note of the dimensions of your door's cross-bore as well as backset and also the thickness and height. You may require a professional locksmith to install a thick door. Think about if you'd like an attractive trimplate (also called a rose) to cover the lock mechanism. They are available in a wide range of styles and finishes that will match the style of your home.
Budget
Your budget can be affected by the type of lock you choose for your front door. Some locks are expensive while others are fairly inexpensive. It is important to consider how much the total cost of your project will be prior to making a decision. It is crucial to strike the proper balance between your security and your budget.
A deadbolt lock can add another layer of security to your home and is a smart option for your front or back door. This can prevent break-ins since exterior doors are a popular entry points for burglars. This type of lock can cost between $100-$250 to install, but it can safeguard your home and save money on your homeowner's insurance premium.
Another option that is inexpensive is a handleset, which includes both door knobs and deadbolt. They're easier to use than door levers and are available in a variety designs and colors to match your style. They're typically ADA-compliant, which means they comply with the requirements of the American Disability Act for people with disabilities. They're also simple to install, which is a advantage for homeowners who want to reduce the cost of installation.
If you're replacing a lock you already have, look for a mortise or tubular lock that is able to fit in the same holes. These are more common and typically less expensive than high-end smart locks, which can cost several hundred dollars or more based on the model you pick. Some locksmiths overcharge prices to pad their estimates, so make sure to check out the costs of both options prior to making a choice.
Buying a new front door lock is an excellent way to make your home have a new look and boost its value overall. It is important to consider the size of the door as well as the kind and style of lock that you need, as well as whether it comes with a keypad or deadbolt. Then, you can choose the lock that will best suit your requirements and budget.