Lock installation & replacement, done properly

What to know before you call

Most break-ins through a front door don't defeat the lock itself — they break the door frame around it. That's why a good installation is about more than swapping hardware: the right lock, fitted correctly, with a strike plate anchored into the framing behind the door jamb.

Whether you're upgrading a flimsy deadbolt, replacing a worn-out lock or fitting hardware to a new door, a local locksmith can get it right the first time.

What lock grades mean

Many residential locks are rated under the ANSI/BHMA standard: Grade 1 is the most durable and is often used on commercial doors, Grade 2 is a solid residential choice, and Grade 3 is the basic level. The grade tells you how the lock held up to durability and strength testing, so it's a useful way to compare locks that look alike on the shelf.

The strike plate matters as much as the lock

The strike plate is the metal plate on the door frame that the bolt slides into. Many are held on with short screws that only reach the thin trim. A locksmith can fit a reinforced strike plate with long screws that bite into the framing behind the door jamb, which makes the door far harder to kick in.

High-security locks

High-security locks add features like pick and drill resistance and patented keys that can't be copied at a hardware store without authorization. They cost more, but they're worth considering for exterior doors, rentals with frequent turnover, or anywhere you want tight control over who can copy a key.

Replacing vs. rekeying

If the lock works fine and you only need to cut off old keys, rekeying is usually cheaper. Replace when the lock is worn, damaged, low-grade, or when you want a new feature such as a smart lock.