Changing a lock or a door handle is a common job for various reasons, including enhancing security, updating your décor, or simply replacing a faulty mechanism. But how do you choose and install a lock or a new door handle? We guide you step by step.
Installation of a door lock
Types of locks and their compatibility
If you wish to change your lock, you must first select the one that suits you. But which lock should you choose depending on your door? Several types exist, the most common being:
- The cylinder lock
This type of lock is part of the deadbolt locks. It is the most common type for entrance doors, as it provides good protection at an accessible price. - The mortise lock
This lock features an embedded mechanism within the door, offering a blend of strength and discretion. It provides a slightly higher protection than the cylinder lock, but it is more complex to install. - The multipoint lock
This is simply a lock that secures the door at several points to make forced entry even more difficult. - The electronic lock
This type of lock is becoming increasingly popular: it is often found in apartment blocks and is also common for exterior house doors. It is a convenient option for opening the door keylessly. In this category, you will also find the smart lock.
Whatever type of lock you wish to install, first check the compatibility of your new interior door lock with your door. To do so, you can examine your current mechanism and the number of holes.
Some types of lock also require a minimum door thickness, notably electronic locks, while others are suited for thinner doors or different types of doors, including double doors.
Tools and materials needed to replace a lock
To change a lock, you will need the following tools:
- A screwdriver
- A measuring tape
- A drill
- An Allen key
- Fixing screws
To avoid errors, don’t skip any steps! This includes the lock as well as the door handle if you are replacing it. First, check your measurements and the lock’s compatibility. Then, make sure you have all the required materials for the replacement; this will prevent leaving your door temporarily without a handle.
Finally, do not force the mechanism which could damage the system or your door: if there is any blockage, try to identify the problem first.
Steps for installing a classic lock
The process may vary depending on the type of lock. Here are the main steps to follow; however, refer to the instructions provided with your model if applicable.
- 1. Remove the old lock: remove the screws and cylinder.
Begin by removing the fixing screws from the plate. They may become more difficult to unscrew after several years; remember that unscrewing is done counterclockwise. You might need to scrape off some paint to get a good grip with the screwdriver.
Once that is done, remove the plate and the cylinder.
- 2. Prepare the installation: measure the space and adjust if necessary.
Before inserting the new lock, take some measurements. First, measure the diameter of the holes, particularly those under the plate and around the door handle, then the distance between the edge of the door and the center of the hole. Also note the door’s thickness and the distance between the door handle hole and the lock hole. If necessary, create new holes or enlarge the existing ones.
Is this a new door? In that case, position the template for your new door handle in the correct place on the door and drill using a template cutter, first on one side then on the other. The height for a door handle should be between 0.90 m and 1.30 m.
- 3. Install the new lock: secure the cylinder and screw it in place firmly.
Insert the cylinder into its position and secure it with the screw. Make sure that the bolt is oriented correctly: the tapered side should face in the direction the door will close.
Position the plate appropriately and check that the fit is correct on the door. Once everything is in place, screw it in.
- 4. Test the lock: ensure the key turns smoothly and the bolt works properly.
Now is the time to check if you have succeeded: insert the key into the lock and test its function by opening and closing the door several times. Make sure that the bolt moves smoothly and that your key turns without resistance. If necessary, slightly adjust the screws.
Installation of a door handle
Different types of door handles and their usage
When replacing a door handle, you must first choose your model! There are several styles, which can be grouped into three main types:
- The plate handle
These traditional handles consist of a generally rectangular plate that covers the entire surface beneath the handle. It can offer a classic aesthetic or a more contemporary feel. This type of handle can become a true decorative element, so it must be chosen wisely. - The rose handle
Also very common, the rose is often a round, sometimes square piece surrounding the base of the handle. It appears more discreet than the plate handle, presenting a modern style. Our handles from the Manital collection are rose models that come in several designs while offering excellent ergonomics. - The recessed handle
The recessed handle is the most modern, integrating perfectly into a minimalist aesthetic by blending into the door. It is an ideal type of handle for those who like to change décor or colours frequently, as it will never appear out of place. It is the door handle for a sliding door par excellence, but it is also increasingly popular on hinged doors and cabinet doors.
Our handles from the No-Ha series can be completely concealed in your swinging door, sliding door or your furniture and wardrobe doors. Our custom made doors are available in several options, including various choices of materials and finishes.
Handles and locks can generally be installed on doors with a thickness of 1 3/8 in. to 1 3/4 in. It is important to check if the desired handle is compatible with your door’s thickness, especially if it is non-standard.
Tools needed to install a door handle
To install a door handle, you will only need a few basic tools:
- A Phillips screwdriver
- A drill
- A measuring tape
- A level
Steps for changing a door handle
- 1. Remove the old door handle
Using your screwdriver, unscrew the screws that hold the handle in place, including those on the plate or rose. Remove these along with the handle.
- 2. Check the alignment of the holes
Once the old handle is removed, inspect the existing holes, particularly to ensure they are properly aligned. You may need new holes or adjustments. If that is the case, use a drill with a template cutter or an appropriate drill bit.
- 3. Install the new door handle
Insert the handle with the plate or rose into the preexisting holes. Then screw the plate in until the handle is firmly fixed.
- 4. Test the mechanism
To finalize the installation, open and close the door several times to ensure everything functions normally – and, most importantly, that the door closes correctly.
Tips for a perfect installation
For an impeccable and efficient result, here are our three tips:
- Measure the centre-to-centre distance carefully before purchase: the centre-to-centre distance corresponds to the distance between the centre of the door handle hole and the centre of the lock hole. Neglecting this could complicate the installation.
- Slightly lubricate the mechanism: this will help prevent squeaking and ensure smooth operation.
- Check the solidity of the screws: to avoid them loosening quickly, use high-quality screws that are suited to your door’s Materials. Screw them in firmly so that they stay secure over time.
There you have it! You are ready to install your new lock and door handle.
Why replace your locks and door handles?
Several reasons may prompt homeowners to want to change locks or door handles.
In some cases, security is the main motivation. Particularly with exterior doors, knowing that your lock is worn out or not functioning well is not reassuring at all!
You might also feel the need to add a lock to an interior door for extra privacy or protection. This is often the case for many businesses that handle confidential documents or data.
Sometimes, the reason is purely aesthetic: you have renovated and your handles disrupt the overall harmony or they appear outdated. They may be small, but they can make all the difference between a successful design or not!
Finally, a new door handle can provide additional comfort. This includes not only smooth functioning compared to a worn-out mechanism but also improved ergonomics. Changing a round handle for a lever handle may make it more accessible. This can be especially important if a family member suffers from reduced mobility, for example.
Easily combine style, security, and performance with our Manital and No-Ha door handles as well as our robust locks and latches. Check out our catalogue or contact us to learn more!
