Tips for Replacing Your Door Lock

Aug-11-2023 | By Admin

The door lock cylinder is the part of the door where you insert the key. When locked, the cylinder usually engages a series of springs loaded with pins that prevent the cylinder from turning. Door lock cylinders are commonly found in office and residential doors. They are commonly used in these doors because they are strong durable and secure.

This crucial component plays a key role in keeping your property secure. But like other components of a door lock, door lock cylinders usually wear out with time and thus need to be replaced. So, is your door lock cylinder damaged and want to replace it but wondering how to go about it? If yes, then today you are in the right place.

Steps to Change a Lock Door Cylinder

In this article, we will give you tips step by step on how to change a door lock cylinder.

Step 1: Locate the faulty door lock cylinder

The first process of replacing your door lock cylinder is locating the faulty door lock cylinders. Replacing a door lock cylinder is a long and costly process. Therefore, it is important to inspect your door lock cylinders thoroughly and only replace those that are faulty.

Step 2: Remove the faceplates

Once you have located the faulty door lock cylinder, the next process is to remove the faceplates using a screwdriver. The faceplate is the device that covers the locking mechanism. Removing it will enable you to easily remove the old door lock cylinder. Remember that you can only install a new door lock cylinder after you have removed the old one for the door lock.

Step 3: Remove the door handle trim

Once you have removed the faceplates, the next process is to remove the door handle trim. Again, use the screen driver to remove the door handle. However, if you are working with a handle lock combination that does not unscrew but latches on, pop off the trim to access the screws that are holding the door handle in place using a flathead screwdriver. Gently remove the screws then get rid of the knob.

Step 4: Unlock the cylinder

Use a flat-headed screwdriver to unlock the cylinder. Unlock it by turning the flat-headed screwdriver in counterclockwise and turn it as far as it can go. The cylinder will free itself when you turn the screwdriver to a certain point. Also, use a screwdriver to remove the spindle then remove the lock cylinder.

Step 5: Install the new lock cylinder

Once you have removed the old door lock cylinder, insert the new cylinder where the old cylinder was, then reverse the process to install it on the door lock. If you find out that the new door lock cylinder is slightly larger than the old one, use sandpaper to enlarge the hole so that it comfortably accommodates the new door lock cylinder.

That’s it. Replacing an old or faulty door lock cylinder is not as difficult as many people think. It is a simple process that will take you a few minutes to complete. The only tools you need to have to change your door lock cylinder are; a head screwdriver, flat-headed screwdriver, and sandpaper. However, if you are not sure of where to start or what to do, then it is advised that you hire a reputable locksmith to do the job for you. Although hiring a professional locksmith comes at a cost, it is worth it because you will be sure that your door lock cylinder will be replaced quickly and efficiently.

How long does it take to replace a door lock cylinder?

The time taken to replace a door lock cylinder depends on many factors including your skillset, tools that you use, and more. For instance, if it is your first time changing a door lock cylinder, then it will take you more time to replace it than if you have done it before. Similarly, if you don’t have the recommended installation tools, then it will take you longer to install. But generally, DIYers take up to 2 hours to change a door lock cylinder while professional locksmiths take about 5 minutes to replace a door lock cylinder.

Hiring a professional vs. DIY, which option is better?

If you are thinking of changing your door lock cylinder, you may be wondering whether to do the work by yourself to hire a professional to do the job for you. Replacing the door lock cylinder on your own will save you money but only if you know what you are doing. If you don’t know what you are doing, you may end up damaging the lock thus forcing you to replace the entire lock. So if you don’t know what you are doing, then it is advised you hire a professional locksmith to do the job for you. A professional locksmith will not only replace your old door lock cylinder quickly but will also deliver quality and long-lasting results. So, if you don’t have an idea of how to replace a door lock cylinder, then it is better to hire a professional locksmith to do the job for you.

How to determine the right size of door lock cylinder for your door

When replacing the door lock cylinder for your door, it is important to replace it with one that fits properly. If not, then the new door lock cylinder may not fit properly. To determine the right door lock cylinder for your door, measure the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the knob or handle door. This measure will give you the approximate size of the backset, which will enable you to find a door lock cylinder that fits your door lock.

When is the right time to replace the door lock cylinder?

Knowing when to replace your door lock cylinder is important. Below are signs that indicate that your old door lock cylinder needs to be replaced.

Your key does not turn in the door lock
Your key has been stolen. In this case, changing your door lock cylinder will help to enhance your door security
When your door lock stops working properly.

Category: Commercial Locksmith