Your residence is your most valuable asset, and keeping it secured is your responsibility. You can keep your house safe and secured using a good security system, or by upgrading the locks.
Lock replacement is required when-
- You have bought an old or ready-to-move property–
If you have purchased a second-hand property, chances are the keys of the locks have been used by the previous owner and his/her family members. Moreover, when the property is too old, you need to renovate it also. Similarly, you must change the conventional locks and upgrade them with an advanced security system, because you probably have no idea how the keys were used earlier and who used them.
A ready-to-move property, like an apartment too, has common locks and the keys are kept with the security managers until the property is sold. So lock replacement generally is a good idea.
- Your neighborhood is not safe-
If you have recently shifted to a place where the neighborhood is not safe, you may feel your peace of mind is being compromised. Even if you appoint security guards, you might feel your family members or your property is at risk. Upgrading the security system and lock replacements can help you in keeping the residence and your family members safe.
- You faced a break-in attempt–
If you have recently faced a burglary attempt at your residence, you must change your home. If not, make sure to change the locks of all the exits. No wonder, if your property is vulnerable to theft or burglary attempts, you need to have advanced locks and security systems.
- You have enemies who can be potentially dangerous–
If you had any serious dispute (involving money or property) or if you had recently fired someone from your office, chances are that your residence and family members might have some additional risks. If you are planning to replace the conventional lock with a digital one, this could be the best time to do that.
- You have valuable assets in your home–
You may own assets worth millions in your home, but without any proper security system, they can be at a risk. Make sure to keep advanced security systems installed at your residence, and consider replacing the locks as well.
Can I replace the lock by myself?
Several door locks are available with installation literature to guide on how to install the gadget. You can purchase a digital lock of your choice and replace it easily. However, many locks have an intricate installation process and hence, it is advisable to get them installed with the help of an experienced locksmith.
Re-keying locks
Many home-owners are re-keying the locks, which is another easy way to make the security system better. Since changing the locks can be quite expensive, lock re-keying can be a budget-friendly option to keep your property secured.
How to change the locks?
Make sure to keep the essentials handy, like the tools required to dismantle the old lock and install the new one, the lock that you intend to install, measuring tape, and so on. Once you have all the tools required, you can start working on the lock replacement process. Remove the existing deadbolt and the other components. All you need to do is, remove the screws of the lock’s interiors and you’ll be able to remove the turn plate easily. Once the screws are removed, you’ll be able to locate the see-through holes. You can now open the door and remove the screws of the lock’s narrow side, removing all other components of the lock.
Take the new deadbolt gadget and install it as instructed. You can use the lock’s mounting hardware provided in the DIY lock assembling kit to keep the appliance in place.
