Choosing a Front Door Replacement Lock
The locks on your front door are the first line of defense for your home. It is essential to have secure locks installed, especially if your home has recently been broken into or you've recently moved.
When you are choosing a front door lock replacement be sure to consider durability, security and appearance. Find out more to make an informed decision for your home.
Security
When you are choosing a front door lock replacement, security is the most important factor. A top-quality lock will stop unauthorized entry and protect your family from burglaries. There are many locking systems to choose from including multi-point lock systems that secure the door with multiple points. These kinds of locks are usually preferred by insurance companies because they are less difficult to break into. Smart locks can be controlled remotely and have keyless entry using apps for smartphones. These are popular among homeowners who want to control the security of their home using a mobile device or virtual assistant, such as Alexa or Google Assistant.
In addition to selecting a safe and secure lock, other enhancements can be made to your door to increase its protection. Installing a door alarm is a great way to discourage intruders. A wide-angle peephole can let you know who is at your door before you open it. You can also buy door reinforcements to make it harder for intruders to kick in the door. They are typically steel or nickel reinforcements that are wrapped around hinges as well as locks, screws, and hinges to make it more difficult to kick in your door.
It is crucial to ensure that the new lock you have chosen for your front door is installed correctly. This includes ensuring that the latch bolt fits comfortably into the strike plate, and that the screws are securely tightened. It's also important to test the lock to ensure it functions correctly and securely.
A faceplate is an aluminum plate that protects a lock cylinder from damage. They are typically found on the interior or exterior of your door. They are used together with a deadbolt, or a latch. A faceplate can be purchased separately from the lock or as a part of an entire lock kit. They can be found at a locksmith or at a hardware store.
It is important to keep in mind that even the most secure front door lock can be compromised by a burglar who is determined to gain access to your property. It is essential to ensure that your windows and doors are always secure. It is also important to install good lighting outside and educate your family on safe house practices.
Durability
If you decide to go with a smart lock or an electronic lock, or traditional door knobs with keys or lever, your entry doors must be durable enough to withstand numerous openings and closings. They should be durable and resistant to the elements and withstand attempts to break-in. Pay attention to the inside structure when selecting a replacement front door lock. There are many types of locks available. However, the safest ones are deadbolts, door knobs, or levers with multi-point locking.
When choosing a front door replacement lock, be sure that the lock you choose is compatible with the hardware you already have. You will want to be able use the same key for all the entrance door locks in your home. When you move into your new home or apartment for the first time, it is best to replace the old lock with a new lock. You can identify who has keys in your home by changing the lock.
If you're replacing a knob or lever lock, you can easily remove the cylinder's exterior by loosing the setscrew that holds it in place and turning it counterclockwise. You can then unscrew your thumbturn to remove the lock cylinder. The upgrade process to a deadbolt is slightly more complex, but still not too difficult. Once you have the doorknob off, you can remove the strike plate by removing the screws or nails holding it in place. Examine the door's frame for the hole that holds the cylinder. Then loosen the set screw that holds it in the position.
After the cylinder has been removed, you can remove the latch mechanism and replace it with a new strike plate that is the dimensions of the holes in the door and the cylinder. Test the lock both from the outside and the inside before tightening the new strike plates. You should be able to lock and unlock the door. The latch should snap into position when engaged.
Appearance
Your front door isn't only a security element, but also a part of the overall appearance of your house. If your front door lock is outdated, dull or doesn't fit with the overall style of your home It's probably time to replace it with something that is more in line with the design of your home.
A new lock can enhance your home's style and complement the color of your door and the hardware. A quick trip to a home improvement store or a professional locksmith can assist you in finding the perfect door handle replacement set and lock to match your interior design.
The first step is to take off the lock on the door knob that is currently in place. It is done by loosening the setscrew that holds the knobs together, then unscrewing them and taking the knob plate off. If you have an e-lock on the side of the door, unscrew the latch from the knob plate. Then, remove the two screws that hold the deadbolt striker plate and latch plate into the jamb.
Take measurements of your door prior to when you purchase locks to ensure it's suitable. Take note of the measurements of your door including its thickness and height. It may be necessary to hire a professional locksmith to install an extra-thick door. Consider if you would like a decorative trimplate (also called 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
The kind of front door lock you pick can have an impact on your budget. Some locks are very expensive and others are affordable. Before making Repair My Windows And Doors must also take into consideration the total price. It's important to find the right balance between security and your budget.
A deadbolt lock is an additional layer of protection to your home and is a smart option for your front or back door. This can prevent burglaries especially since your outside doors are a frequent entry point for burglars. Installing this lock will cost between $100 to $225, however it will safeguard your home and lower the homeowner's insurance premium.
Another option that is inexpensive is a handleset that includes both the door knob and deadbolt. They're generally more easy to open than door levers and are available in different styles 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 easy to install, which is a benefit for homeowners looking to cut costs of installation.
If you are replacing an existing lock, it is recommended to consider mortise or tubular lock that installs in the same holes as your existing lock. These locks are more popular and are generally less expensive than high-end smart locks, which could cost a few hundred dollars or more based on the model you choose. Some locksmiths inflate their prices to increase their estimates. Make sure you compare the prices before making a decision.
A new front door lock can provide your home with a modern appearance and boost the value of your home. It's important to consider the size of the door and the type and design of lock you require and whether it comes with deadbolt or keypad. Then you can shop for the lock that is most suitable for your requirements and budget.