Installation Tips for Door Strike Plates
Have you ever struggled with a door that doesn’t close properly or won’t stay locked? It can be incredibly frustrating, and a faulty door strike plate may be the culprit. But fear not, the expert locksmiths at Locksmith Columbus are here to provide you with some installation tips for door strike plates, so you can save yourself the hassle and headache of a malfunctioning door.
First, let’s define what a door strike plate actually is. It is the metal plate that is located on the door frame where the lock bolt or latch engages when the door is closed. This simple piece of hardware is essential in ensuring that your door stays securely closed and locked. Now, let’s get into the tips for proper installation.
Tip #1: Choose the Right Strike Plate
Not all strike plates are created equal. When purchasing a new one, make sure to select a plate that is designed to fit your specific lock and door type. There are different sizes and styles of strike plates, so be sure to choose the correct one for your door. If you’re unsure, consult with a professional locksmith for guidance.
Tip #2: Check the Alignment
Before installing the strike plate, make sure that the hole in the strike plate lines up with the hole in the door frame for the lock. If they don’t align, you may need to do some chiseling or drilling to create a properly sized hole. It’s important to have a snug fit for optimal security and functionality.
Tip #3: Use Longer Screws
One common mistake when installing a strike plate is using short screws. This can make the plate vulnerable to being pulled out or damaged, especially if there is any forced entry attempted. Use longer screws that go all the way into the door frame for added stability and security.
Tip #4: Consider Reinforcing with a Box Strike Plate
For added security, you may want to consider using a box strike plate along with your regular strike plate. This type of strike plate adds an extra layer of protection by reinforcing the door frame and making it more resistant to forced entry.
Tip #5: Test It Out
Once you’ve installed your new strike plate, test it out! Make sure the door closes and locks smoothly without any resistance or issues. If there are any problems, such as the door not closing properly or the lock not engaging, you may need to make adjustments or seek professional help.
At Locksmith Columbus, we understand the importance of proper strike plate installation for the safety and security of your home or business. Don’t overlook this small but crucial piece of hardware. Follow these tips for proper installation and rest easy knowing your door is secure. For any locksmith needs, give us a call at (614) 585-8955.
Installation Tips for Door Strike Plates
Welcome to Locksmith Columbus, where we pride ourselves on providing high-quality and efficient locksmith services for our clients in Central Ohio. We understand that the security of your home or business is of utmost importance, and that’s why we offer a range of services to ensure that your property is properly secured and protected.
One of the key components in ensuring the security of your doors is the installation of a door strike plate. This small but vital piece of hardware is often overlooked, but it serves as the primary point of contact between your door and the door frame. Without a properly installed strike plate, your door is vulnerable to forced entry and break-ins. That’s why we’ve put together some installation tips to help you ensure that your door strike plates are installed correctly and securely.
1. Choose the Right Strike Plate
The first step in ensuring a successful installation is to choose the right strike plate. This may seem like a simple task, but it’s actually quite important. The strike plate should be made of a durable material, such as solid brass or steel, to withstand the force of attempted break-ins. It should also be the correct size and shape to match your door latch, ensuring that the door closes properly and securely. If you’re unsure about which strike plate to choose, our team at Locksmith Columbus can help you select the right one for your specific needs.
2. Measure and Mark Properly
Before you start drilling, it’s important to carefully measure and mark the location of the strike plate on your door frame. Use a ruler or tape measure to determine the precise location where the strike plate will sit on the frame. Then, use a pencil or marker to mark the spot and make sure the strike plate will be properly aligned with the latch. Double-check your measurements before moving on to the next step.
3. Prepare the Door Frame
Before you can install the strike plate, you need to prepare the door frame. Use a chisel and hammer to create a mortise for the strike plate, ensuring that it is deep enough to accommodate the entire strike plate. It’s important to take your time and make sure the mortise is precise and clean, as any gaps or misalignment can affect the functionality of the strike plate. Once the mortise is ready, use a screwdriver to secure the strike plate to the frame.
4. Test and Adjust
Before you finalize the installation, it’s important to test the strike plate to ensure that it is properly aligned and functioning correctly. Close the door and test the latch to make sure it catches securely in the strike plate. If there are any issues, such as the latch not catching or the door not closing properly, you may need to adjust the strike plate slightly or make sure the mortise is deep enough. It’s better to take the time to make these adjustments now, rather than having to deal with issues later on.
5. Call a Professional for Assistance
Installing a door strike plate may seem like a simple task, but it’s important to get it right for the security of your property. If you’re not confident in your abilities or if you encounter any issues during the installation, it’s best to call a professional locksmith for assistance. Our team at Locksmith Columbus has years of experience in installing and maintaining all types of door hardware, and we can ensure that your door strike plates are properly installed and functioning correctly.
Ensuring the security of your property starts with the right door hardware, and the installation of a door strike plate is an important step in this process. By following these tips and enlisting the help of a professional locksmith when needed, you can have peace of mind knowing that your doors are properly secured. For any locksmith needs in Central Ohio, don’t hesitate to contact Locksmith Columbus at (614) 585-8955. Our team is always here to help keep you and your property safe and secure.
577 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 585-8955