Changing a storefront door lock can feel intimidating, especially since locks play a major role in commercial property security.

Regardless of your reason for swapping out your commercial door lock, with a few simple steps, you’ll be able to replace your lock with ease. Keep reading to learn how to replace your storefront door lock quickly and efficiently.

1. Identify What Type of Door Lock You Have

There are a few common types of storefront door locks, each requiring a different method of removal and replacement. Before you prepare to replace your lock, check if the current door lock is a deadlock, hook bolt, or deadlatch. If you have automatic sliding doors, this is probably a hook bolt lock. Swinging doors are usually deadlatch or deadlocks.

2. Remove the Previous Lock

In order to access the lock body, you’ll need to unscrew the three screws on the faceplate. This is the visible outer piece of your door lock. After that, you’ll remove the lock cylinders using the two parallel screws in the middle of the lock body.

Then, gently loosen the lock body attachment screws located on the top and bottom of the lock body. Don’t remove them altogether. Once loosened, you can unscrew the two cylinder screws from the lock body. Now remove the old lock from the lock stile.

3. Install Your New Lock

Similarly to how you removed the old lock, you’ll insert the new lock body into the lock stile. Use the top and bottom screws to screw the pieces together, bonding them as one unit.

4. Install Exterior Lock Cylinder

At this point, the two black screws in the lock body should be loosened. The lock cylinder will have small indents along the side where the black screws will rest. Start by screwing the outside cylinder lock into the lock body.

Keep screwing gently until you feel the screws align with the channel grooves. Now you can fasten the screw tightly. This is the same process you’ll use for installing the interior lock cylinder.

5. Test the Lock

Test the interior and exterior lock with a key to make sure it’s working properly. The lock should engage immediately once you insert the key. If you feel resistance, try loosening the set screw and lock cylinder. Make sure to retighten the set screw afterward.

6. Install Face Plate

The last step is screwing the face plate back into place. Test the lock again to ensure it’s operating correctly and latching well. Keep in mind that the deployment speed should be fast and smooth with no catch. After this, your lock should be all set for everyday use.

Conclusion

Storefronts receive lots of foot traffic and curious eyes. Why not upgrade your old lock with one that can withstand the test of traffic and time?

We specialize in high-security, heavy-duty door locks and door hardware in various finishes. Our inventory frequently changes to make room for the newest models and most exceptional pieces. Call us at 332-600-4046 or contact us for personalized assistance.