How to Avoid Common Lock Installation Mistakes (And Save Yourself a Headache)
Let’s be real—installing a lock seems straightforward until you’re knee-deep in screws, mismatched deadbolts, and a door that’s still not secure. We’ve all been there: that moment when you realize your DIY confidence might’ve been… optimistic. But hey, no judgment! At ALL OVER Locksmith here in Los Angeles, we’ve seen it all—from upside-down deadbolts in Encino to smart locks that somehow locked someone inside a Calabasas bathroom. So, let’s walk through the most common lock installation mistakes and how to dodge them like a pro.
Mistake #1: Assuming “One Size Fits All”
Spoiler alert: It doesn’t. Locks aren’t socks.
Ever grabbed a deadbolt off the shelf thinking, “This’ll work,” only to realize the backset is too short or the latch doesn’t align? Yeah, us too. Here’s the deal:
- Measure twice, buy once. Check the door’s thickness, backset (the distance from the edge to the center of the hole), and handing (left vs. right swing).
- Not all locks play nice with all doors. Slapping a Mul-T-Lock high-security deadbolt onto a hollow-core door? Bad idea. The door’s strength matters as much as the lock.
Pro tip: If you’re in Van Nuys or Thousand Oaks and need a quick measurement sanity check, give us a shout. We’ll save you the “why is this gap here?!” meltdown.
Mistake #2: Skipping the Pre-Installation Homework
Newsflash: YouTube tutorials won’t mention the 17 types of screwdrivers you’ll need.
Installing electronic keypads or access control systems? These aren’t “wing it” projects. Forgetting to:
- Check voltage requirements for smart locks.
- Align strike plates properly (a millimeter off = hello, jiggling door).
- Test the lock before fully tightening everything.
FYI, we once helped a Northridge homeowner who’d installed a panic bar backward. Spoiler: It didn’t panic. It just… didn’t.
Mistake #3: Ignoring the “Why” Behind High-Security Locks
“But it looks sturdy!” isn’t a security strategy.
High-security deadbolts, Mul-T-Lock cylinders, and commercial-grade exit devices aren’t just for banks. If you’re in Chatsworth or Calabasas and own a business, skimping on locks is like inviting trouble for coffee. Here’s why:
| Lock Type | Best For | Why It’s Worth It |
|---|---|---|
| Mul-T-Lock | Residential/Commercial | Pick-resistant, drill-proof, and key control |
| Panic Bars | Commercial Spaces | Meets fire codes, ensures safe exits |
| Smart Locks | Modern Homes | Keyless entry, remote access control |
IMO, if you’re installing locks yourself, stick to basic deadbolts. For high-security or commercial lockout services, let the pros (hi, it’s us!) handle it.
Mistake #4: Forgetting the Exit Strategy (Literally)
Ever seen a door that won’t open in an emergency? Not fun.
Exit devices and panic bars aren’t just for schools or offices. If you’re upgrading a rental property in Encino or a studio in Van Nuys, these are non-negotiable for safety (and often legally required). Key tips:
- Ensure the device meets local fire codes.
- Test the bar’s responsiveness—no one wants to play “escape room” during a real emergency.
Mistake #5: Treating Residential & Commercial Locks the Same
Residential lockout? Annoying. Commercial lockout? Business-stopping.
Your home’s garage door locksmith needs ≠ your downtown L.A. boutique’s access control system needs. Here’s the breakdown:
Residential Needs
- Key replacement that doesn’t require a PhD in lock anatomy.
- Smart locks with user codes for Airbnb guests.
- High-security deadbolts for peace of mind.
Commercial Needs
- Access control systems to track employee entry.
- Panic bars for compliance and safety.
- 24/7 emergency locksmith services because getting locked out at 2 AM sucks.
Fun story: A coffee shop in Thousand Oaks learned the hard way that residential deadbolts don’t survive Friday night crowds. We upgraded them to commercial-grade faster than you can say “double espresso.”
Mistake #6: Underestimating the Power of Rekeying
“Lock change” doesn’t always mean “new hardware.”
Moving into a Northridge fixer-upper? Rekeying existing locks is cheaper and faster than full replacements. But if the locks are older than your avocado-print wallpaper, swap ’em out.
When to rekey:
- You’ve lost a key (and don’t trust your ex-roommate).
- Upgrading to a master key system for your Encino rental properties.
When to replace:
- Locks are rusted, wobbly, or straight out of the ‘70s.
- You’re switching from traditional to electronic keypads.
The “Just Call Us Already” Section
Look, we get it—DIY projects are satisfying. But when it comes to locks, a tiny mistake can cost you big in security (or sanity). Here’s why ALL OVER Locksmith is your go-to “locksmith near me” in Los Angeles:
- We’re local: From Chatsworth to Calabasas, we’ve got your neighborhood covered.
- No job too weird: Garage door locksmith? Panic bar install? Electronic keypad acting possessed? Done.
- 24/7 emergency locksmith services because bad guys don’t work 9–5.
3 Burning Lock Questions (Answered Without Judgement)
Q: How much does professional lock installation cost?
A: Depends on the lock type and job complexity. Basic deadbolts start around $80, while high-security systems like Mul-T-Lock run higher. But hey, compare that to the cost of a break-in.
Q: Can I rekey instead of replacing locks?
A: Absolutely—if the hardware’s in good shape. We’ll match your existing keys to new pins faster than you can say “residential lockout.”
Q: How fast can you fix a lockout?
A: Our average response time in L.A. is 30 minutes. Unless traffic’s apocalyptic—then we’ll sprint.
Final Thought: Don’t Let Your Lock Be the Weak Link
Whether you’re in Thousand Oaks stressing over smart locks or a Northridge business needing panic bars, remember: locks are your first line of defense. Nail the installation, and you’ll sleep better. Botch it, and… well, let’s not go there.
Need a hand? ALL OVER Locksmith’s team is here to save your doors (and your dignity). Give us a ring, shoot a text, or carrier pigeon—we’ll respond. After all, nobody wants to be the neighbor with the “jimmy-able” deadbolt. 😉
