Changing home locks on your own requires making an inventory list, buying new locks, deadbolts, handles, and other necessary hardware, removing the old locks, and mounting the new ones. If you have smart locks, you need to reset the code and set a new one. Testing whether the mechanism works is a very important step that shouldn’t be missed. For simpler, standard lock types, this process might take 2-3 minutes, while more complicated locking mechanisms and non-standard ones require calling a professional residential locksmith.
Why You Need to Change Locks?
Moving into a new home is a big milestone in everyone’s life, but it can also be very stressful. With lots of furniture and interior works to attend to, one can forget to attend to the locks. However, changing the locks or rekeying them at least once you move into a new property is a must, and a step that should have priority above all others.
Keeping old locks is a security risk to your home. You never know if the previous owners have kept a spare copy of the keys, or whether they’ve kept the spare copy with someone you are not familiar with. The best way to protect your home from unauthorized entries and attempted break-ins is to change all the locks.
Steps to Change Locks
01. Take Inventory
The first thing to do is to make an inventory list. This means you need to list all the exterior doors, including front, back, garage, and basement doors. Check the condition of the locks, handles, and exterior hardware. If visible, write down the lock brand name, model, and type. Now you have a list based on which you can buy new locks or plan upgrades.
02. Buy New Locks
If you are buying and changing locks in a DIY setting, you need to be extra careful during this step. Buying the wrong locks can cost you money and your time, so make sure to successfully identify the type you need to buy before going to the hardware store. Also, make sure to look for packages that are labeled to be “keyed alike”, which means they all open with the same key.
03. Remove Old Hardware
If your new home is equipped with standard locks, then removing them should be a piece of cake. Most of the standard models can be removed with a screwdriver. Once you remove the interior plate, you can remove the deadbolt and knob, access the locking mechanism, and remove it completely.
04. Install New Deadbolt
The next step is to install the new mechanism. Insert the new latch into the door edge, ensuring that the tapered side faces the direction of closing. Once you complete that, attach the interior and exterior pieces, and secure them with screws. Make sure to tighten it carefully and with the right type of screws to avoid a loose lock or door handle.
05. Test the Mechanism
Once everything is installed and in place, make sure to test how the mechanism works before you close the door. Try pressing the handle gently to check for its functionality. Insert the key and turn it without closing the doors to see whether the thumb works smoothly. Only once you are assured everything works as it should can you proceed to use the doors regularly.
06. Update Smart Locks
All aforementioned steps are relevant only if you are using standard lock types. If your home is equipped with smart or digital locks, physical replacement is not the way to go. Instead, you should reset the code and set a new one. To do this, you should find the model and the type of smart locks in your house, and then follow the manufacturer’s instructions for resetting the code.
Tips for Success
01. Rekeying vs Replacing
Deciding whether to rekey or replace the locks comes down to checking and evaluating their conditions. If the existing hardware is relatively new, of good quality, or in general good condition, you might consider rekeying. In situations where the hardware is damaged, worn-out, or outdated, replacement is the best option.
02. Check Measurements
Double-checking every measurement will save you from the trouble and unnecessary expenses. When you buy the new lock, make sure it fits the door frame by checking whether it matches the door thickness and the hole diameter.
03. Tools Required
If you are changing the locks in DIY settings, all the tools you need are just a simple screwdriver that matches the door screws. If you need anything more than just a screwdriver, the job is probably not one that can be done by yourself, and you’d probably need professional assistance.
When to Hire a Residential Locksmith
Even though it may seem like an easy task, changing all the locks is not as simple as it sounds. You can change the locks by yourself if they are of a standard type, simply mounted, and if the doors and other hardware are not severely damaged. If that is not the case, you should consider hiring a residential locksmith.
A residential locksmith is the one to call if you want to rekey the locks, since that is not a job you do by yourself, or if you want to avoid replacing the locks that are in good condition. A professional residential locksmith can assess the situation, identify the damaged locks, and advise on the best solution for your home that fits your budget.
Final Thoughts
Changing locks at your new home can be a piece of cake if everything aligns perfectly. If any issue arises in the process, there are high chance you will need to hire a locksmith. If your home has outdated locks or non-standard deadbolts, it is best option to hire a professional locksmith to complete the job.
Don’t Bother Changing the Locks By Yourself – Hire Fast and Reliable Residential Locksmith Service in Hillsborough County, FL
We at A1 Locksmith Service LLC proudly serve customers across Hillsborough County, FL. We provide all kinds of residential locksmith services, from replacing, repairing, or rekeying your locks, to addressing emergency lockout situations, to providing advice on security enhancements and upgrades. Call us at +1 (813) 817-5576 to schedule your residential locksmith service.
