Why do I have to replace my lock instead of repairing it?
There is no doubt that repairing a lock is the much more cost-effective option for any homeowner, but sometimes the only option available to homeowners is changing locks. A lock can be repaired if none of its integral components have been damaged. Fort Knox Locks will not be able to give you an answer on whether your lock can be repaired until they have arrived to examine the lock and assess exactly what is wrong with it.
Essentially your lock cannot be repaired if it is damaged beyond repair. Sometimes locks can be damaged due to blunt external force being used against them (if someone attempts to break down your door) or their internal parts are simply worn from being used so much. This tends to happen with high traffic doors. If any of these things are plaguing your door then it is very likely that changing locks will help solve the problem.
How long will it take to replace my lock?
With the help of an experienced locksmith, changing locks should take approximately 20 to 30 minutes. In some cases it might take less time or more time, but this is all dependent on the type of lock you already had in place, and the one that you wish to replace it with.
The turnaround time is much faster if you are using the same model of lock since your door is already primed for it to be inserted. However, if you are replacing it with a new lock that requires that some minor modifications be made to your door, then it will take a bit more time.
Will my door be damaged in the process of changing locks?
No, of course not! Ideally, your door should not be damaged in the process of changing locks and replacing it with a new one. Our locksmiths are trained and know exactly how to handle lock changes and replacements. You can rest assured that they will treat your door with the utmost care and will not inflict any damage.
Do I need to change my door if I want to replace my old lock with a smart lock?
In most ideal situations you will not have to change any aspect of your door if you want to replace your traditional lock with a smart lock. Many of the smart lock models fit well within the doors that homeowners have in place. Our locksmith technician might have to make a few minor adjustments to your door to accommodate the smart lock you want to put in place, but you will not have to change your entire door, unless you want to.
How do I know its time to replace/change my lock?
If you believe that the lock has suffered any damage, or that it is not functioning the way it should, you should contact us to have a locksmith assess the lock for you. In the event that they discover something wrong with it then you should be able to replace it. Regularly scheduled maintenance and simply paying attention to your lock are some of the best ways to know that it is currently time to change your lock.
Lock Replacement
It is important to make sure that your door is functioning the way it is intended to. One of the best ways to do this is to make sure that the locks within your door are working properly and that they are providing the absolute best security to you and your family. One of the best ways to ensure that your lock is always performing the way it should, is to simply pay attention to it.
Make sure that you have a professional locksmith come and assess it as soon as you think there might be something wrong. This cannot be overstressed. Having a locksmith take a look at your lock when it begins to malfunction is one of the easiest ways for a homeowner to save money. Some homeowners choose to neglect the early warning signs and continue to use their doors with worn out or impaired locks, until they cause some much greater and far more expensive damage.
As a homeowner you should make sure that maintaining your locks and your doors is prioritized on your list. Many people take locks for granted and forget the simple fact that they are the very things that make doors work effectively. Sometimes the locks in your door might start to malfunction and this could lead homeowners to seek either repair or replacement. In most cases, we suggest that you move to repair your locks, unless they are damaged beyond repair or if they are not good at keeping your home secure.
