Night Latch Installation Guide By Locksmiths
Night latches have been used by homeowners for decades as a means to reinforce their front door with added security. Their robust designs are effective without being too heavy or crowding the door frame and can automatically lock your door each time the door is shut. These products are revolutionizing the home security market, but how difficult are they to install?
As it turns out, you don’t really want to install night latches yourself. Hiring a professional locksmith can help you avoid common pitfalls that affect homeowners who try to install locks themselves. If you’re looking for expert assistance with night latch locks, then read the advice from an expert emergency locksmith at Lock & Key. Today, we’ll break down five key reasons why it’s best to leave night latch installations to the pros, saving you time, energy, and potential stress.
The Problem with DIY Night Latch Installations
Even if you have a bit of experience with DIY projects, night latches can be particularly difficult to secure onto your door. If the installation is completed incorrectly, the locking mechanism can be disabled entirely. Residents have also reportedly caused damage to their door or frame when doing self-installs. Between operational challenges and insurance risks, it makes much more sense to work with a local locksmithing agency to safely install your night latch.
Reasons Why Locksmith Should Be Your Go To For Night Latch Installation
If you’re considering a DIY night latch install, try to consider the following factors that make this process much easier when working with a locksmith:
- Carpentry skills are needed – installing a night latch requires experience with tools and measurements. If you don’t accurately measure and plan the installation to fit your door, your night latch will likely not work and you’ll need to start over.
- The type of night latch matters – before installing a night latch, you’ll need to purchase a model that specifically works for your door. Certain doors, especially older ones, can have unusual measurements that make it hard to add locking systems. A professional locksmith can examine your door and help you select the right model for the job.
- Home insurance depends on a proper installation – most insurance carriers have stipulations in their coverage that require your night latch to be secured according to their standards. Locksmiths can ensure that your night latch complies with British Standard requirements, keeping you covered in the event that an insurance claim is filed.
- Damage to the door can occur – when installing a night latch, there’s a risk of damage occurring. Wood and paint can get chipped, and extra drill holes can affect the integrity of the door and door frame. For this reason, it’s best to call an experienced locksmith to minimise damage.
- Locksmiths have the knowledge and tools to get the job done – experienced locksmiths will routinely complete night latch installations. This means that they have specialised equipment and knowledge to complete the installation of your night latch. Having a locksmith complete the install will save loads of time and ensure that it’s done right the first time.
How Long Does a Night Latch Installation Take?
The time it takes to fit a night latch can vary greatly depending on certain factors, such as the style and model of the device, the material of your door, and the type of lock currently installed on your door. With no major obstacles, a night latch can be installed in about 20 minutes by a trained locksmith. Complicated scenarios could extend the installation to an hour or longer, but these cases are rare. Some troubleshooting or modifications might need to be made once the latch is installed, but you can be sure that a locksmith will fit your latch much faster than you would on your own.
Tips for Hiring a Locksmith to Install a Night Latch
Find a Locksmith with Good Credentials
There are many types of locksmiths in the UK, all with different services and levels of skill. Night latch installations are a bit niche, and a locksmith isn’t guaranteed to know how to install these devices. Before hiring a locksmith, check out their website, read their online reviews, and call them directly to get a sense for their skill level.
Local companies like Lock & Key have the credentials they hold posted on their website. Be sure to ask about their credentials, including what accreditations or other certifications they hold. This can help save you from having to hire multiple locksmiths for the same job.
Fitting a Night Latch Lock is Not a Job for a Builder
Night latch mechanics are somewhat nuanced and specific, meaning they require specialised knowledge to install them. This isn’t a job for a builder, general contractor, or standard locksmith who is used to cylinder lock replacements. Be sure to find someone who has learned specifically how to install night latches.
Purchase Your Own Night Latch
Many local locksmiths will arrive at your location equipped with all sorts of locks, allowing them to install a night latch for you on the spot. However, this is often more expensive than if you were to purchase your own lock and have them install it for you. Before calling a locksmith out, you can take your time and find the right night latch to fit your budget, allowing you to price shop a bit.
It should be noted, however, that not all doors are compatible with night latches, and not every lock company will offer a guarantee on their product. It’s a great idea to consult with a professional locksmith before committing to a specific night latch, saving you time and headaches.
Conclusion
Night Latches are incredibly secure, durable, and easy to operate, but installing them can be a pain. Doing it yourself is possible, but you risk some pretty serious disadvantages by attempting to install them yourself. Not only can you cause damage to your door or door frame, but you can also nullify your insurance policy. A poorly installed night latch can dissolve your chances of receiving an insurance payout in the event of a burglary.
Instead of going DIY, seriously consider reaching out to an experienced local locksmithing company to complete a night latch installation. Professional locksmiths can help you choose the right night latch to fit your door, and they know how to install them according to British Standard regulations, ensuring that you remain protected by your insurance. If any questions come up before, during, or after the installation, you’ll have a knowledgeable and experienced technician available to guide your night latch operation. Night latches are high-tech, high-quality security devices, and you should get the most out of their use. Call a locksmith today to start the process and improve your home security measures!
