SAVE MONEY, DON'T CALL THE LOCKSMITH
Every now and again it is necessary to change the lock on your front door, your garage or even the patio door. They are all very similar these days and easy to change without needing to call a locksmith (see proviso below).
I took my lock out the other day and put it back in the wrong way around (oops!) which meant it was slightly recessed on the outside and egressed inside. While fixing it I thought I'd document the process while I swapped it back again.
To replace the lock you must have the correct key for the lock. You will also need a Phillips (cross-head) screwdriver (in most cases).
PROVISO NOTE: If you do not have the correct key for the lock you are intending to change it is most likely that you WILL need to call a locksmith to remove the old lock for you.
All lock barrels have a retaining screw that locks the barrel in place. This is also a safety mechanism which prevents the lock from being replaced by anyone who cannot open the door.
The locking screw is located on the vertical edge of the door at the same height as the lock itself. Using the Phillips screwdriver, turn the locking screw anti-clockwise and keep loosening it until the entire screw is removed from the door.
NOTE: Keep that locking screw safe!!! You'll need it to secure the lock back in place again.
To remove the lock barrel from the door (now that the locking screw is no longer keeping it in place) you must insert the correct key into the lock.
Once the key is inserted correctly, turn the key slightly (might need a turn left or right depending on how the lock barrel was last fitted) as you gently pull the lock towards you.
Turning the key ensures that the locking tab aligns with the lock barrel allowing the entire barrel to be removed without it getting caught inside the door.
Once the lock tab is correctly aligned, pulling the lock barrel from the door is simple.
When the entire lock barrel has been removed you will either need to measure the length of the barrel (there are many different sizes) or take the lock barrel with you to the locksmith if you are intending to put a new lock in the door.
NOTE: Your door cannot be locked while you take the barrel to the locksmith. Just thought I'd mention it 😁
No photo for this step. Just follow the steps above in reverse order and you'll soon have your new lock barrel fitted to your door. (Make sure you've put it in the right way around unlike I did.)
Well done, you've saved yourself a locksmith callout charge and you've learned a new skill. One step closer to becoming a Reality Master.
I hope you enjoyed this DIY tutorial and learned something new. Have an awesome and secure day. My day is always awesome after an upvote 😉
Dave
