5 Common Mistakes Homeowners Make When Changing Locks
5 Common Mistakes Homeowners Make When Changing Locks
Changing your locks might seem like a simple DIY task, but one small mistake can leave your home less secure than before. Many homeowners underestimate how precise and technical lock installation really is. At L&J Keysmith-Locksmith Mount Vernon, we’ve seen it all — from loose deadbolts to mismatched keys. Here are the top five mistakes people make when changing their own locks, and how to avoid them.
1. Buying the Wrong Type of Lock
One of the most common problems is purchasing the wrong lock for your door. Not all locks fit every type of door or strike plate. For example, a standard deadbolt might not align properly with a metal or reinforced frame. Some homeowners also buy locks that aren’t rated for exterior use, which makes them more vulnerable to rust and tampering.
Before you buy any lock, check that it fits your door thickness, backset size, and security rating. If you’re unsure, L&J Keysmith-Locksmith Mount Vernon can help you select a high-quality lock designed specifically for your home’s setup.
2. Not Rekeying Instead of Replacing
Many homeowners immediately replace all their locks after moving in or losing a key, but in many cases, a simple rekey is all that’s needed. Rekeying changes the pins inside your existing lock, making old keys useless while saving you money and keeping your hardware intact.
Our locksmiths often recommend rekeying as a faster, budget-friendly solution. It’s secure, efficient, and can be done on-site in just a few minutes.
3. Incorrect Installation
Improper installation is another big mistake. If a lock isn’t aligned properly, it won’t latch or deadbolt securely, making it easy for someone to force the door open. Some DIY installations even damage the door frame, creating long-term problems.
At L&J Keysmith-Locksmith Mount Vernon, we use professional tools and techniques to ensure your lock is perfectly aligned, smooth to operate, and fully secure.
4. Ignoring Door Frame Security
A lock is only as strong as the frame it’s mounted to. Many people focus only on the lock itself and forget about reinforcing the strike plate and frame. Weak frames can splinter during a break-in, even if the lock is strong.
Upgrading to heavy-duty strike plates and longer screws (3 inches or more) can dramatically increase your door’s resistance to forced entry. Our team offers these upgrades as part of every security inspection.
5. Forgetting About Spare Keys and Key Control
After installing new locks, homeowners often forget to track who has copies of their keys. If you hand out extras without keeping count, you’re putting your home’s safety at risk. Always know who has access — and consider switching to a keyless smart lock if you want total control over entry.
Final Thoughts
Changing your locks is an important step toward home security, but doing it right requires experience and precision. Avoid these common mistakes by calling the professionals at L&J Keysmith-Locksmith Mount Vernon. We specialize in lock installation, rekeying, and security upgrades for homes and businesses across Westchester County. Protect your property the right way — with experts who care about your safety.
