When you move into a new house, one of the first tasks on your to-do list should be changing the locks. This simple yet crucial step ensures the security of your new home and gives you peace of mind. In this video and guide, we walk through the best time to change your locks, the best lock options, and ways to maintain your new locks. This Old House expert Tom Silva also provides a tutorial on changing locks on your new home.
Why Change Locks on a New Home?
Changing the locks on your new home is a crucial security measure that you shouldn’t overlook. There’s no telling how many keys to the home are floating around from previous owners, acquaintances, or contractors who might have accessed the existing locks. Changing the locks upon moving in will give you complete control over access to your new home.
Opportunity for Upgrades
Consider upgrading to advanced locking systems such as smart locks, which offer remote access and provide alerts for unauthorized entry attempts. High-security deadbolts offer increased resistance to forced entry and are an excellent deterrent against burglaries. These options can significantly enhance the security of your home or property.
When To Change Your Locks
You should change the locks when you close the house and receive the keys. If that’s not possible, change the locks before moving your belongings into the house. If changing the locks immediately isn’t feasible, aim to complete this task within the first week of ownership. While this leaves a short window of potential vulnerability, it’s better than prolonging the process indefinitely.
Types of Locks
The type of lock you choose can significantly impact the security and convenience of your home. Below are some common lock choices.
- Traditional deadbolts: Deadbolts are a popular choice for home security due to their sturdiness, reliability, and resistance to picking or forced entry. Single-cylinder deadbolts are operated with a key from the outside and a thumb turn from the inside, while double-cylinder deadbolts require a key on both sides.
- Smart locks: Smart locks offer advanced features such as keyless entry, remote access control, and integration with home automation systems. They operate via smartphone apps, keypads, or even biometric scanners.
- Keyless entry systems: These locks typically use keypads or touchscreens where you enter a code to unlock the door. Some advanced models can even recognize your smartphone as you approach it and unlock it automatically.
- High-security locks: These locks are resistant to picking, drilling, and other forms of forced entry. They often feature reinforced strike plates, hardened steel bolts, and complex key designs that are difficult to duplicate.
How To Change Your Locks
Changing the locks on your new home is a relatively simple process that most homeowners can complete as a DIY project. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Take inventory of all exterior doors that need new locks.
- Purchase new lock sets from a home center or hardware store.
- Remove the old locks by unscrewing them from the inside of the door.
- Install the new lock mechanism into the door.
- Attach the new exterior and interior lock components.
- Test the new locks to verify that they function properly.
- Make copies of the new keys for family members as needed.
For those who would rather have professional installation, locksmiths can promptly and efficiently replace all the locks in your home and often offer additional security suggestions.
Re-keying: An Alternative Approach
Re-keying involves changing the internal pins and springs within an existing lock to work with a new key, making old keys obsolete. This method is often more affordable than replacing the entire lock, especially if you are satisfied with your current hardware.
Re-keying allows you to keep your current lock hardware while rendering old keys useless. It’s a budget-friendly option and offers a quicker turnaround, which is particularly useful when multiple locks need updating.
Despite its advantages, re-keying may not provide the same security level as installing new locks. It doesn’t address issues with aged, damaged, or low-quality locks, and not all locks can be re-keyed. For high-security or smart locks, a full replacement may be necessary for optimal security.
How to Re-Key Locks
You can perform rekeying as a DIY project with the right tools and knowledge. Most hardware stores offer rekeying kits with detailed instructions. If you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself, consider hiring a locksmith to rekey your locks.
Tips for Maintaining New Locks
Once you’ve installed new locks, proper maintenance will extend their longevity and continued effectiveness:
- Regularly clean the locks with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
- Lubricate the lock mechanisms annually with a dry lubricant to prevent sticking.
- Avoid using WD-40 or oil-based lubricants, as they attract dust and grime.
- Periodically check and tighten any loose screws on the lock and strike plate.
- Keep the batteries fresh for smart locks and update the software per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
