How to Change the Front Door Lock

One of the most important things new homeowners do to a new home is to change the front door’s lock. This is necessary because you do not know who owns a key to the door, and it gives you a fresh start to your new house. You can also change your old home’s front door lock if the system breaks or in case you misplace your keys.

Changing the lock is not a complicated process. However, you need the right tools and skills to do it. You will, in turn, save on labor, and it gives you more experience. Here is a guideline to follow when you plan to change your exterior doors Oakville lock. 

What You Will Need

Do not purchase a toolbox of tools before finding out what tools you will need. The locks do not cost a lot, and your budget will depend on the type and number of locks you need. You should be ready with;

1. Tape measure
2. Screwdrivers
3. Claw hammer
4. Powerless drill
5. Safety glasses
6. Twist drill bits

You can change all exterior front door locks of your home and install a universal system that can be opened by one key. This reduces the number of keys you carry. 

Buy The Exterior Door Lock

The main reason you are changing your locking system is to increase your home’s security. Therefore, you do not have to spend a hefty amount on a coded lock, but if you can comfortably afford one, then that’s okay. 

You can buy a standard lock, which will cost you between $15 and $50 each. You can also purchase the locks as a set, which could cost you up to $200. These prices might change depending on the quality of locks and brands. 

If you want your exterior front door to have a universal lock that can be opened by one key, you might have to spend more. DIY could help you save up to $220. The keylock installers also charge labor according to the type of lock you install. 

If you get a similar type of locks, you will save time on the installation. This is because your new lock system resembles the previous, so you won’t have to create new holes. To ensure that you get the exact front door lock, you can remove the previous one or take a picture of it with you to the manufacturer. 

Steps To Follow When Installing The Door Lock

1. Remove The Old Lock

It is advisable to remove the old lock only after you buy the new system. Removing before the purchase could be risky because you do not know if you will get the same lock, and leaving your house open also poses a danger to it. 

Unscrew the doorknob using the screwdriver. After loosening the doorknobs, unscrew the screws holding the latch and remove them. 

2. Install The New Lock

• Hold the latch facing the right side and insert it into the space of the previous one. This will be easier to do because you know how the previous one was placed. 
• Ensure all the parts of the latch are in the right place, and the parts of the doorknob should be able to enter the hole. 
• Connect the doorknobs to the latch and secure them using a screw or nails. 
• Remove the old strike plate and install a new one to make opening and closing the door easy. 

You need to measure the front door if you are installing a different locking system. This ensures you buy the correct one. If you are not ready to take measurements and create new holes on the door, it is advisable to go for a similar lock style as the current one. 

Test The Lock

You can try the new lock by opening the door from inside and outside. It should be smooth to open and close unless it was not properly installed into place. Ensure the doorknobs are also in place and not loose. Put your spare keys separately with your primary keys, not to lose them all.