Replacing a Cylinder-Style Lockset
A Lock For Your Privacy
Cylinder-style locksets are in almost every home
and are the type that have no deadbolt attached and have either a handle-mounted
push-button or twist lever lock on the interior knob. While they shouldn’t
be considered adequate protection for entrance doors, they are perfectly suited
to address simple privacy needs, such as one might require for a bedroom or
bathroom. Sometimes they need to be replaced because they simply get old and
fail, you lose your key or you want to change the lockset’s look. If you are looking for a lock with a little more ooommph! check out our section on deadbolt locks.
Installing A Lockset Of The Same Size Is Easy
When installing the same style lockset as the old,
the job is simple. When installing a lockset of a different style or size, you
may need to do some maneuvering to get it to fit right, including adjusting
the depth of the mortise (see items 2 and 3 under For a faulty latch).
Installing A Different Size Lockset
If the size and style are quite different from the lockset
you’re replacing, you might need to do some woodworking on your door before
you make the installation. Depending on the new lockset, this could include
enlarging the existing holes or, if the new lockset is smaller than the old,
filling in gaps with wood putty, and then sanding and refinishing the door before
you install the lockset. If this sort of project seems beyond your scope, you
might want to hire a handyperson to do it for you. If the door in question is
in need of work itself, you may want to opt to use this as an excuse to replace
it.
Buying A Replacement Door
When buying a replacement door, take the lockset with you to the lumber
or home improvement store and see if they can install it for you. Take measurements
of the placement of the old lockset (or take in the old door, if possible).
Even still, you may need to do some work on the mortise to the get the new striker
plate to line up with the new latch. If you’re converting a cylinder-style
lockset to a tubular style, you’ll need to pick up a kit at your home
improvement center to make your mortise compatible with the new style.
Removing The Old And In With The New
Once you have your new lockset picked out and your door and
mortise are ready to go, here’s how to remove the old lock and install
the new one:
| 1. |
Along the shank or stem of the interior knob is a tiny release. Insert
a nail or small screwdriver into the slot to free the knob. Remove the knob’s
vanity plate (called the "rose") by simply lifting it off or
prying it free if it has been glued down or stuck to the door paint. |
| 2. |
Remove the mounting plate screws and pull off the plate, then remove the
exterior knob and cylinder. Next remove the faceplate and latch on the door
and the striker plate on the doorframe (or opposite door). |
| 3. |
On the exterior side, install the replacement latch assembly. Next install
the faceplate. Gently guide the exterior knob and cylinder through the hole
until the cylinder engages with the latch assembly. |
| 4. |
Next attach the interior knob by installing the mounting plate to the
protruding cylinder. Install the interior rose and knob and then the new
striker plate. Test the latch in the striker plate to make sure the depth
and position are right. If you need to make any adjustments to the striker
plate or to the mortise behind it, please see our section: Latch And Lock Maintenance. |
