How to Replace Your Dead Bolt Lock

Since dead bolt locks are excellent for security purposes, homeowners should replace a malfunctioning dead bolt lock to continue to secure the safety of their home. Occasionally, the mechanisms inside a dead bolt lock decide to have a party and then they crash and no longer work.

Seriously, though, I have had dead bolt locks cease functioning and it isn't fun when you cannot get back inside your home because you cannot open the door. Short of breaking a window each time you want to get back inside, the next best thing is to replace your dead bolt lock.

Since it appears that dead bolt locks have entered the world of fashion by the overwhelming styles and colors available, the homeowner should spend a bit of time shopping around before making their purchase. An online search is the easiest and quickest way to see what is available on today's market.

Dead bolt locks are available for purchase in numerous locations. Homeowners can select a dead bolt at security device stores, discount stores, home improvement stores, and online sites.

In fact, the quality of dead bolt locks varies, so it is important to consider different manufacturers and price ranges as well. Obviously, if you are replacing an existing nonfunctioning dead bolt lock, then you know that quality makes a difference. Unless you want to make replacing dead bolt locks your new career choice, select a high quality dead bolt from a manufacturer who makes locks for a living.

Replacing a dead bolt lock is a simple task, one that requires few tools and little time.

Steps required to replace a dead bolt lock:

Purchased your dead bolt lock.

Get a screwdriver- one that you have on hand or borrow a neighbor's screwdriver.

Remove the old one from the door. With the screwdriver remove the screws on the lock from the inside section or panel of the dead bolt.

Pay attention to how the pieces of the dead bolt are fitted. This will make your task of inserting the new lock easier.

Grasp both sides of the dead bolt lock, pulling them apart and away from the door. Be careful not to drop any of the pieces, especially the screws, as they may be difficult to relocate.

Remove the new lock from its packaging, and carefully insert the dead bolt plate or base into the hole in the door.

Place the screws into their slots and loosely secure them in place, as you secure the dead bolt plate to the door.

The plate of the dead bolt lock should be flush with the door. If the door and the dead bolt plate are not flush, then it may be necessary to reset the dead bolt plate. If this does not set the door and the dead bolt flatly together, then you may need to adjust the size of the hole slightly.

Once you have the dead bolt panel mounted flush with the door, secure the screws tightly before continuing.

Take the two remaining sections of the dead bolt and insert them into the opening on the paneling of the door. Be sure to align them securely and properly. If necessary, remove the pieces and reset them to fit snugly.

Take the screws that were supplied with your dead bolt, and insert them, securing them tightly.

Throw away the packaging, but retain any papers concerning the warranty of your new dead bolt lock.

Now, you will need to check that the lock has been properly placed and that it is in good working order. Give it a trial run or two. Be sure to leave a door unlocked elsewhere in your home, just in case the dead bolt malfunctions and you need a way back inside. Be sure to test the new dead bolt from both sides of the door. If all goes well, then you have just successfully replaced your old dead bolt with a brand new one.