Have you just moved into a new home? Or maybe you’re thinking of fixing that loose door lock, latch or jamming door lock, or certain lock problems you may be having. No matter what door lock problems you’re facing, getting it back to functioning properly is definitely a priority for every home or business owner.
A Simple Task Prone to Simple Mistakes
In theory, changing door locks shouldn’t be too complicated. A screwdriver is usually all you need to fix it, whether it’s a broken key, a damaged lock cylinder, a jammed locking mechanism or a problematic strike plate. Fixing common door lock problems is difficult, but replacing them seems like a piece of cake.
That’s what most people think. And once they’re done, they realize they’ve made a mistake. At Real Time Locksmith, we can fix your mistake. However, we recommend seeking help upfront. We can help with:
- Situations when key breaks
- Damaged lock’s strike plate
- Locking bolt issues
- Jammed door or frozen lock issues
- Unlock the door with needle nose pliers if you’re locked out
- Lost key and new key cutting
- Installation of new key systems, including smart systems that don’t require a key
And much more!
If it involves a key or a lock, here at Real Time Locksmith, we’ll be able to help with it, be it an emergency or not.
Common Mistakes When Installing Locks
Replacing a door lock’s strike plate might be doable, but a lock issue requires a professional locksmith to get fully functioning locks again. Here are some of the most common mistakes you can make:.
Going Cheap
Even if you think you live in a safe area, a cheap lock won’t do. So, what if the entire cylinder turns and looks alright? So, what if it can close properly? The cheaper it is, the easier it is for burglars to break in, not to mention frozen locks, damage with the wrong key or other lock issues.
Improper Orientation
An improper installation is often caused by a faulty orientation, and there’s no quick fix for that. Many DIYers place the deadbolt or knob in the wrong position and notice it after the set screws are in, meaning the door locks in the opposite direction. A little attention upfront can fix this issue.
Lock Misalignment
The deadbolt must be aligned perfectly. If you do it wrong, you may need a new door. No graphite spray can give you an easy fix for such potential errors. Before you set screw and drill, make sure the alignment is simply perfect.
Weather Ignorance
Ignoring the weather is a common problem for DIYers. Even if you’re just replacing a broken piece or a poorly cut piece, security can be compromised if you ignore weather conditions for a front door lock. Going cheap is a bad idea for a front door.
Even if you have the right key or the key turns perfectly, these new keys won’t unlock doors or allow access all the way if the lock is rusty, expanded or jammed because of the weather.
Digital Mistakes
You can always replace a traditional lock with a digital one, that’s the trend today. It doesn’t mean you’ll be out of trouble though. Not everyone can install or program such lock doors accordingly, so you risk getting stuck outside or having to use force to break in.
Drilling the Wrong Holes
When it comes to drilling, it’s essential to leave replacement to a locksmith. In most cases, people compromise, meaning they basically compromise the safety of their home or business. You could drill all the way to the other side, drill the wrong place or the wrong width.
Damaging the frame or door could put you in a more difficult position.
DIY Vs. Hiring a Locksmith
For various reasons, people believe they can pull off this deal themselves. How hard is it to unscrew some screws and put a different lock in? It’s a relatively clean process, and there are lots of tutorials online. You can clean dirt, get rid of rust or even tighten loose elements yourself.
What do you need to change a door lock? In theory, it’s just a screwdriver. But as you dig deeper, you’ll need the right lock cylinder, experience with door lock problems, knowledge of every lock cylinder or locking mechanism out there, not to mention plenty of other tools in the right sizes.
Not only will you spend more money on tools, but you’ll never be able to get a locksmith’s experience with a defective lock or broken key by checking online tutorials. And this isn’t just about tools and experience with a broken key; a locksmith will also educate you on the best door lock systems out there.
Most Popular Types of Locks for High Security
At Real Time Locksmith, we provide all kinds of door locks or door lock systems. No matter what you have issues with, be it a broken key, a broken latch or the lock, we can sort it out in no time.
The mortice lock is one of the best options because it can be fitted in most doors and is difficult to force open without a key.
The night latch lock is just as popular in the UK and less likely to get stuck. A key is required for access, while the latch can lock the door automatically.
The rim cylinder is a classic lock, just like the night latch. It comes in all sizes, shapes, and colors.
Euro cylinder and key operated multi lock systems are just as common.
These days, the trend goes towards digital lock systems. They don’t always require keys to get in, and they come with numerous modern features.
Consequences of DIY Lock Installation
You can get replacement locks, screws and keys in pretty much every hardware store. However, lacking the right tools and experience will lead to various problems. You can tighten screws on a loose latch, but that’s it. Without experience, you’ll compromise and spend more money.
Furthermore, you’ll need a professional locksmith to cut a new key, help with a broken key, fix a key stuck in a loose bolt or maybe remove the dirt if the key is stuck in. Simply put, a professional will help you prevent problems and mistakes, not to mention compromise the security of your home or business.
Best Practices for Lock Installation
You don’t need to be a locksmith to replace a broken lock or key, but you do need to know that you’ll expose yourself to a series of problems and mistakes which may ruin your overall security standards.
The simple fact that you lack tools and experience will be more than enough to give you headaches, regardless of how many tutorials you watch. No amount of money can buy experience, which is what experienced locksmiths do for the majority of these jobs.
