Are you stuck outside due to a broken or simply forgotten screen door lock? Trying to figure out how you can get back in quickly without destroying your property? Don’t worry, it isn’t as hard as it may seem.
In this blog post, we will cover step-by-step instructions on how to pick a screen door lock and get that door open! We’ll review common troubleshooting procedures for lost keys through tools and techniques you can try yourself and give tips on choosing the best locks for strength against break-ins.
After reading this article, you should be able to go from being locked out of your house with no way inside – back inside again with increased security measures so that broadcasts “stay out!” In this blog post, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on selecting and opening various types of locks commonly found on screen doors so you can master this craft quickly and easily!
Things to Consider When Picking a Screen Door Lock
Before trying to pick a screen door lock, it is important to consider the type of lock that you are using. Depending on whether or not you have a keyed or non-keyed lock, there are certain techniques that work better than others for opening your door.
1. Keyless Lock
If you have a keyless lock, then picking this type of lock will require some tools. You’ll need a tension wrench and pick to work the lock open. First, insert the tension wrench into the bottom of your keyhole. You will then use the pick to manipulate each pin inside the lock until it clicks into place. Once all pins are clicked into place, you should be able to turn the tension wrench and successfully unlock your door.
2. Keyed Lock
If you have a keyed lock, then the easiest way to pick it is by using a bump key. A bump key is a specially designed key that will work with any type of lock (as long as it has enough pins). All you have to do is insert the bump key into the lock and tap it gently with something like a screwdriver. This will cause the pins inside the lock to move and unlock the door.
3. Lever Lock
If you have a lever lock, then picking this type of lock is relatively simple. All you need is a flat head screwdriver or a pair of pliers. Insert either tool into the hole where the locking mechanism is and rotate it in the direction necessary to unlock your door.
Tips for Choosing the Right Lock
Aside from learning how to pick a screen door lock, it’s important to also consider what type of lock is best for you and your home. Here are some tips to help you choose the right one:
- Invest in a high-quality lock. It should be made of sturdy, durable materials and have features like anti-theft protection or keyless entry to prevent any potential break-ins. Otherwise, you may be left vulnerable to theft.
- Make sure the lock is easy to use and understand. You don’t want to find yourself stuck outside because you can’t figure out how to open your door!
- Consider getting a deadbolt for extra security. Deadbolts are one of the strongest locks available, and they’re more difficult to pick or break into.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your home is well-protected and secure from potential burglars. With the right lock in place, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your property is safe at all times.
Required Items
Before you start trying to pick a screen door lock, make sure that you have all the necessary items for the job. This should include
- A tension wrench
- A pick
- A bump key (for keyed locks)
- A flat-head screwdriver or pliers (for lever locks).
By having all of the necessary items, you will be able to easily and quickly pick your screen door lock without any issues.
How to Pick a Screen Door Lock in 10 Steps
Step 1: Type of Lock
Identify the type of lock you have. It is important to know the type of lock that you have because it will determine the tools and techniques required to open it. Keep in mind that keyless locks require a tension wrench and pick, while keyed locks require a bump key.
Step 2: Gather the Necessary Tools
Gather the necessary tools required for picking your lock. Make sure to have all of the items mentioned above on hand before attempting to open your door.
Step 3: Insert the Tension Wrench
If you have a keyless lock, you will need to insert a tension wrench into the bottom of your keyhole. Inserting the tension wrench is what allows you to pick the lock.
Step 4: Begin Picking
Once the tension wrench has been inserted, use a pick to manipulate each pin inside the lock until they all click into place. This should take some trial and error, depending on how many pins are in your door’s lock.
Step 5: Insert the Bump Key
If you have a keyed lock, then insert a bump key into the lock and tap it gently with something like a screwdriver. This should cause all of the pins inside the lock to move and unlock your door.
Step 6: Unlock Lever Lock
For lever locks, simply insert a flat head screwdriver or a pair of pliers into the hole where the locking mechanism is and rotate it in the direction necessary to unlock your door.
Step 7: Remove the Lock
Once you have successfully opened your lock, remove it and set it aside. While removing your lock, it is important to be careful and not break or damage any of its components.
Step 8: Install New Lock
Now that you have removed the old lock, it’s time to install a new one. Make sure that the new lock fits into your door frame properly before attaching it. It should fit snugly but should still be able to move freely when the door is opened and closed.
Step 9: Test the Lock
Once you have installed your new lock, make sure that it works properly by testing it a few times. If everything seems to be in working order, then close your door and secure it with the lock.
Step 10: Enjoy Your New Lock
It’s time to enjoy your new lock. With a fully functioning lock in place, you can now rest assured knowing that your property is safe from potential burglars.
Picking a screen door lock doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. By following these steps and gathering the necessary items, you can easily pick your own lock without any issues. With the right lock in place, you can guarantee that your home will be well protected from potential threats. So don’t wait – pick up a lock and get it installed today!
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid While Choosing the Lock
It’s important to know what to look for when selecting the right lock for your screen door. However, it can be easy to fall into some common traps that you should avoid. Here are five mistakes that people make when picking a lock:
- Not considering the security features of the lock. It’s important to consider how secure the lock is before purchasing it. Look for a lock that has anti-pick, anti-bump, and anti-drill features.
- Choosing a low-quality lock. Not all locks are created equal; some are made with inferior materials that can easily be broken or manipulated. Make sure you’re buying from a reputable source and doing your research to ensure you get a quality lock.
- Failing to consider the cost of installation. Installing a lock is not always an easy or affordable task, so make sure you factor in the cost of hiring someone to do it for you when picking out your lock.
- Not considering the size of the door frame. You need to know what size of lock will fit in your door frame before you buy it. Measure the inside of the frame to get an accurate measurement and don’t make any assumptions.
- Choosing a lock, that’s too complex. While you want your lock to be secure, you also don’t want something so intricate that it’s difficult or impossible to operate. Make sure you select one that is easy enough to use on a daily basis.
Conclusion
Ultimately, no matter which lock you choose for your screen door and how you decide to open it, knowing the techniques involved in unlocking a screen door can help protect your home and keep you feeling safe. From simply placing a thin object into the keyhole to potentially drilling out the entire mechanism depending on the piece of hardware installed, there are several ways to pick a lock on your screen door.
Be sure to use caution when picking any type of lock and never attempt anything beyond your skill level. After you’ve successfully opened the lock, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with how it works.
Even if you don’t pick locks professionally or plan on mastering the technique as a hobbyist, gaining knowledge about this process can still be of great benefit in providing greater security to your home. So go ahead and master the art of picking locks with this guide on how to pick a screen door lock – start by exploring these steps today!