Maintaining your home is one of your responsibilities as a homeowner. And among your home’s components that may need replacing from time to time are your door and window locks. This is especially true since inferior and inefficient locks can pose safety risks to you and your family.
Windows and doors that don’t lock properly could offer intruders access to your home, giving them a way to take valuables. That said, if your locks are old and worn out, it may be time to give your windows and doors an upgrade and change their locks.
To help you get started, here’s a quick step-by-step guide to replacing your home’s door and window locks:
List Down All The Doors And Windows In Your Home
Before starting this project, make a list or inventory of your home’s doors and windows. From there, carry out a visual inspection of each and determine which ones need replacement. It’s also advisable to take note of details such as the type of windows you have and the kind of lock you need for your doors.
Essentially, doing this step can give you a more or less overview of what you need to do and buy. Having a list can also help you be more organized as you take on this home project.
Choose Your New Locks
The next thing you need to do is decide what kind of locks you want to install. Several locks are available in the market, including knob, mortise, deadbolt, and electronic keypad locks.
If you need help determining which type is best for your home, contact a professional who has experience with all kinds of locks. An expert from companies like Locksmith Plus Inc. In Vancouver WA can recommend and help you decide on the right locking system. This way, you can ensure you get the best locks that can offer your home better security. Such companies also offer lock replacement services, which can be a more secure and convenient option, especially if you don’t know how to replace window and door locks.
Gather The Necessary Tools
After choosing your new locks, you must gather all the necessary tools to replace the old ones. This can speed up the lock replacement process since you won’t have to go around looking for missing tools. Generally, you’ll need screwdrivers, a hammer, a pencil, and measuring tape.
Detach The Old Locks
Removing old locks from your doors and windows is generally simple and easy. The tricky part, however, is being careful so that you don’t damage other parts of the door or windows.
To detach old locks from your windows, you’ll need to remove the screws holding them in place using a screwdriver or a drill. The same approach can be applied to removing your old door locks. After unscrewing the visible screws, start detaching the interior and exterior components, followed by the deadbolt, faceplates, and strike plate on the door jamb. You can use a hammer or flat-plate screwdriver to completely separate them from the doors.
Install The New Locks
Once all components have been removed from your doorframe and window frame, installing the new locks comes next. Before securing the new locks in place, check if they match the current markings in your window and door. If you’re getting a new type of lock, it’d be best to measure and drill new holes to ensure installation accuracy.
For your windows, see that the new locks are aligned properly with the holes before drilling the screws to secure them. Also, check if the screws are tightly installed. Meanwhile, for your home’s door, start by inserting the deadbolt and securing a new faceplate and strike plate with screws, followed by the interior and exterior knobs.
Test The New Locks
After attaching the new window and door lock, you must test them to ensure they work efficiently. You can start by trying the key lock and internal turn assembly. If something seems off, check the installation manual or call a professional locksmith who can properly set up your new locks. Trying out the new locks also allows you to test and check if the components are properly fastened by the screws.
Wrapping Up
As a homeowner, besides regular home maintenance, part of your responsibility includes prioritizing the safety of your home. And one of the best ways to boost your home’s security is by investing in quality door and window locks. Whether you have old and worn-out locks or you recently moved into a new home, getting new locks can provide better security for you and your family.
To help you get started, this post outlined basic steps to replacing your door and window locks. Furthermore, don’t hesitate to call a local locksmith to help you do the job.