How To Change A Garage Door Lock
Is your garage door lock broken or worn? Or do you simply want to alter who has access to your garage? Whatever your reasoning, you’re here because you want to switch your garage door lock and are wondering how.
First, we must emphasise that it’s strongly advised to get a professional to change the lock for you. This ensures an accurate, secure and high-quality job first time.
But if you’ve decided to change the lock yourself, this article will guide you through it.
Types of garage door locks
Different doors come with different locks. Some will have more simple locking systems such as side bolts, deadbolts or even padlocks.
Many will have the T-handle lock, a twisting lock handle with a keyhole, or a rim lock which looks like a traditional lock and is mounted on the outside of the door.
Modern garages may go a step further and have purely digital locking systems where access is granted by keypads and remote controls.
How to replace a garage door lock
Before attempting to replace garage door locks yourself, always check with your home insurer to make sure this action won’t void your insurance.
If you’re satisfied with the answer, here are some broad steps to change the lock on a garage door. Please note that instructions will vary depending on the make of the door and the type of lock.
- Do your research and purchase a lock that is compatible with your door model.
- Make sure you’ve read all the instructions for the new locking hardware and gathered the appropriate tools and safety equipment.
- Ensure the door is closed before beginning work and that everyone on the property is aware of what you’re doing to guarantee the door remains closed.
- If the old locking mechanism has a cylinder, access this by undoing the screws and removing the faceplate.
- Next, unscrew the locking cylinder and carefully detach it with pliers to avoid damaging the door.
- Put the new locking mechanism in place following the manufacturer’s instructions. Mounting holes on the new mechanism will need to align with the existing screw holes. If they don’t align, you will need to drill fresh holes.
- Test the door and lock afterwards to ensure everything is working.
These steps are simply an overview and are not a reflection of the true complexity, so let’s take a closer look at this.
Is it easy to change a garage door lock?
If you have a bit of DIY knowledge, changing the more simple locks, such as side bolts, is entirely possible. However, once you get into more complex mechanisms, you put the safety, performance and quality of your garage door at risk if you attempt to change garage door locks yourself.
That’s why it’s always advisable to use a professional to change the lock. Here at Doormatic, we have decades of experience replacing garage door components of all types. This enables us to swiftly and correctly change a garage door lock to ensure a lasting, high-strength result.
How much does it cost to change a garage door lock?
If you are choosing to engage the services of a professional, the cost of changing a garage door lock will depend on how complex and time-consuming the work is, and the expense of the parts involved. Though as a fairly straightforward job, changing a lock will be relatively inexpensive.
Are you in the South East and looking to change your garage locks? Get in touch with Doormatic, the go-to garage experts for the region. With over 20 years’ experience, you’re in safe hands when you use our services, so get in touch today to book a service.
