Are you a proud homeowner? Or maybe you just recently moved to your new place, and all the keys have been assigned, but, oops, one is missing — Yale. Do not worry! We’re here to guide you through the process of learning how to lock it.
Yale locks are one of the most popular and reliable forms of security today, used to protect your home and property from potential thieves. They provide a level of protection that outclasses more traditional padlocks while also remaining affordable. But what happens when you accidentally get locked outside without your key? If you’re forced to find an alternative way in, then knowing how to lock Yale lock from the outside is helpful.
In this blog post, we’ll cover exactly how to lock yale lock from outside and discuss some additional tips for protecting your belongings with the help of these modern marvels.
What Will You Need?
To lock your Yale lock from the outside, you’ll need the following items:
- A screwdriver or a drill
- An Allen key
- A spade bit
- Marker or pencil
- Masking tape
- Patience!
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary tools, it’s time to get to work!
10 Easy Steps on How to Lock Yale Lock From Outside
Step 1: Unscrew the Lock
Using your screwdriver or drill, remove the screws that are keeping the lock in place. Don’t forget to keep track of the screws, as you’ll need them later. If they are difficult to remove, an Allen key may be necessary.
Step 2: Find the Lock’s Center Point
Using your marker or pencil, mark the lock’s center point. This can be done quickly by measuring from one side of the lock to the other and marking where they meet in the middle. Additionally, use masking tape to help keep your work area neat and tidy.
Step 3: Drill a Hole
Using your spade bit, drill a hole through the center of the lock until it is deep enough for an Allen key or screwdriver to fit in securely. Be sure not to over-drill, as this could damage the mechanism inside and render your Yale lock useless! As you drill, keep an eye out for any wires or other components that may be present, as these will require extra care.
Step 4: Insert an Allen Key
Once you have successfully drilled your hole, insert an Allen key into it and turn it clockwise until you hear a click. This means that you have successfully locked your Yale from the outside. Don’t forget to check that it is secure before you leave.
Step 5: Secure the Lock
Once you have locked your Yale, it’s important to make sure that it is secure. To do this, put a piece of masking tape over the hole so that no one can tamper with or access the lock from outside. If you have screws that were removed, then re-install them to ensure a secure fit.
Step 6: Replace the Screws
The final step is to replace all the screws and tighten them to ensure your Yale remains secure. This step is important and can’t be overlooked as it will protect your Yale from potential tampering or theft. Try to use the same screws as before, if possible.
Step 7: Test It
Once you have finished putting your Yale lock back together, it’s important to test it out and make sure that it is working properly. Try pushing the door in or out to check if the lock is still secure. Check the screw heads and ensure they are all tight. Finally, give your lock a good shake to make sure that everything is in place.
Step 8: Maintain the Lock
In order to keep your Yale lock functioning correctly, it’s important to check and clean it regularly. Check for any rust that might have formed on the metal surface of the lock, and use a lubricant like WD-40 to remove it. This will help ensure that your lock is working as effectively as possible.
Step 9: Change the Combination
If you have a combination lock, then it is important to change the combination regularly. This will help protect your property from potential thieves who may try to guess the code. Additionally, it is a good idea to record your combination somewhere safe in case you forget it.
Step 10: Stay Informed
Finally, make sure that you are up to date with any updates or new developments in the field of locksmithing. This will ensure that you are always informed about the latest innovations and can take advantage of any new security measures that may be available to keep your property safe.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to learn how to lock the yale lock from the outside and have confidence in knowing that your property is secure.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
1. Use Correct Key Size: Make sure always to have the correct key size. If your key is too small, it can be difficult or even impossible to use.
2. Push the Plug into the Lock: Once you have found the correct key size, insert the key and turn it clockwise until it is fully inserted into the lock. Then push in on the plug to make sure it is firmly in place.
3. Twist and Pull: Turn your key counter-clockwise and grip it with both hands. Then pull out on your key while twisting counter-clockwise at the same time until you hear a loud click or feel resistance released from within the lock cylinder. This means that you have successfully unlocked your Yale lock from the outside!
4. Remove Key Carefully: To remove the key, slowly turn clockwise until it releases itself from within the lock cylinder; then, pull it out.
5. Lock Again When Done: Don’t forget to re-lock the Yale lock when you’re done with it! To do this, just insert your key and turn clockwise until you hear a loud click or feel resistance from within the lock cylinder. You’ve now successfully locked your Yale lock from the outside!
Following these tips and tricks will ensure your Yale lock is secure and no one else can access it without your permission. Now that you know how to lock a Yale lock from the outside, go ahead and give it a try! With practice, you’ll be able to do it quickly and easily in no time.
5 Things You Should Avoid
1. Avoid forcing the key into the lock. Forcing a key into a Yale Lock can cause it to get stuck, making it more difficult to unlock.
2. Avoid using lubricants inside the lock. Lubricants can actually cause dirt and dust to accumulate, making it harder to unlock the Yale Lock.
3. Avoid trying to pick the Yale Lock with a hairpin or other makeshift tool. This can damage the internals of the lock, resulting in costly repairs or replacement of the entire unit.
4. Avoid prying open the door if you cannot unlock it from outside – this will damage your Yale Lock and the door frame itself.
5. Lastly, avoid leaving your Yale Lock unlocked or exposed to thieves or intruders – always make sure that you lock it securely before leaving your home or office premises!
Following these tips lets you keep your Yale Lock locked and secure.
Why is Your Yale Lock Not Locking?
If your Yale Lock is not locking, you can try a few things to troubleshoot the issue.
First, make sure that you have correctly inserted the key and turned it clockwise until it is firmly in place. Second, check to see if the plug or cylinder is loose or damaged – if so, then you may need to get a replacement part from an authorized dealer. Third, inspect the key for any visible signs of wear and tear – if it is damaged, you’ll need a new one. Finally, if all else fails, it may be necessary to call an expert locksmith who can open the lock without damaging it.
By carefully following these steps, you should be able to figure out how to lock a Yale Lock from the outside and ensure that your property is as secure as possible.
Conclusion
From installing, changing, and unlocking the Yale locks, it is clear that you can easily handle the Yale lock with a thorough understanding of all these processes and the right type of tools.
Just ensure you have all hardware fitting properly, familiarize yourself with step-by-step instructions, use the right type of tools, and keep them well lubricated to ensure the smooth functioning of your Yale locks. All in all, ensuring proper locking also helps in keeping unwelcome intruders out and safeguarding your family’s safety and valuables.
So be wise when deciding on how to lock yale lock from outside, and rest assured that you are doing your part in protecting what matters most–your home, family, and valuables. Thanks for reading!