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Did you know that the modern door handle didn't exist until after the Civil War? While door handles have been around for thousands of years, it wasn't until a teenager named Osbourn Dorsey patented and streamlined the popular door handles we use today. 

Most people often overlook door handles. They're a small part of your home's decor, but choosing the right handle can do wonders for your space. Plus, they grant you access to your home and can also protect you from unwanted thieves. 

Door handle replacement is something that everyone eventually has to deal with. Your handles may wear out, loosen, or no longer match an updated interior. 

So how do you go about replacing door handles? If you've never had to deal with door handle parts, it's tricky to figure out the installation process yourself. But don't worry!

Today we'll tell you how to replace a door handle. Whether you need to update a front door handle, entrance door handles, or interior door handles, keep reading for everything you need to know.

 

What You'll Need to Replace a Door Handle

Before we begin, you'll want to ensure you have the following supplies. These tools will ensure your door handle installation goes as smoothly as possible. First, make sure to have two sets of screwdrivers, preferably one Philips' and a Flathead. 

Of course, you'll also need your luxurious new door handle to replace the old one. If you shop with us for your new door handle, it will come with the screws you need. Finally, pick up a measuring tape to get all the appropriate measurements.

Supplies you'll need:

• Phillips' screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Your new doorknob
• Appropriate screws 
• A measuring tape

 

Steps to Replacing a Door Handle

Now that you have your door handle parts let's go over the door handle replacement process in detail. You'll need to make a few decisions before you begin installing, but not to worry. We'll help you go through each decision and challenge.

Pick the Correct Door Handle

Choosing a door handle involves a few decisions on your part. There are plenty of styles to choose from. Just make sure your new handle is both functional and stylish. 

Additionally, you will decide if you need a lock, compare handles vs doorknobs, and choose a finish for your new piece. 

 

Ask Whether You'll Need a Lock

Deciding on a lock will depend on the level of security you want for your door. Of course, this will also depend on the location of the door you're working on.

If your new handle is for a front or back door, you will surely want a lock to protect from break-ins. Other areas, like bathrooms or bedrooms, will likely need a lock for privacy.

 

Choose Between a Door Handle and a Door Knob

Whether you want a door handle or a door knob will depend on your preference. 

A lever-based door handle will increase functionality and make opening doors easier. On the other hand, a door knob will be more challenging to open for the elderly, children, or disabled friends and family. Think about how busy the area is and whether accessibility is important.

 

Decide on Your Door Handle's Finish

The finish of your new door handle is a stylistic choice. And the easiest way to decide on a colour or finish is by examining your interior. 

Traditional-styled homes may benefit from brass or gold-coloured handles, while chrome and black are more contemporary. Choose a colour that best suits your home's style.

 

Decide on the Size of the Door Handle

Size is an essential factor when choosing a door handle. You'll want something that can cover your previous door handle's existing marks and screw holes. 

This is where your measuring tape can come in handy. Measure between the outer edge of the door and the middle of the spindle hole to get your backset measurement. You may need anywhere from 45 to 57mm of space to install a new door handle properly.

 

Installing Your New Door Handle Replacement

After removing your old door handle, it will be time to install the new one. Get rid of your old handle, gather your tools, and get ready to install your brand-new piece.

 

Fit the New Latch into the Door

First, thread the latch through the hole in your door. Make sure the latch plate sits comfortably on your door. Next, use your screwdriver to secure the latch plate on the door. You'll most likely need two screws for the top and bottom of the door handle.

 

Align the Door Handle and Spindle

Next, fit your door handle into the new spindle. The spindle is the square metal rod connecting both sides of your door handle. You'll want the spindle to line up through the latch, preventing any issues with your new door handle.

Make sure the latch and the spindle align properly through the door hole. The spindle needs to go through the door hole and latch mechanism. If you complete this step correctly, you should be able to see the spindle on the opposite side of the door.

 

Installing the New Handles

Now it's time to attach both door handles. Using the spindle, situate them into the door. Don't screw the door handles in until they sit correctly on the door.

Once you feel they're secured, begin screwing the door handles to the door. Test them to ensure that the handle or knob works as it should. You can also test the door handle parts before screwing them in to avoid having to unscrew and correct placement.

Finally, get your cover plates and screw them onto both sides of your door. And give the door handles one final test before finishing the job. 

 

Get Premium Door Handles in Australia

We hope our guide helped you install your door handle replacement without any issues! To close, we always recommend buying from a reliable supplier to update the rest of your old door handles. 

Location-wise, the Lock Shop provides door handles in Melbourne and door handles in Blackburn. We carry everything from traditional door handles, and restoration hardware, to key safes and digital locks. We guarantee we'll have something that meets the quality, style, and functionality you need.

Visit our site and view our extensive collection of premium door handles today!

Break-ins occur often and during times when you least expect them to happen. Unfortunately, someone can definitely find a way to break into a house if they really want to. And although it has been shown that home security systems can dissuade home invaders, they cannot always stop a burglar in their tracks.

The truth is that there is no foolproof way to keep your home from danger or harm once it has been chosen as the target. The best course of action is to take preemptive precautions to make sure your home is not picked out, whether it’s investing in the best door locks for home security, installing CCTV cameras within your property, or simply making sure the doors and windows are locked at all times.

Top Safety Considerations to Prevent Break-ins

Over 4% of all Australian households reported a successful or attempted break-in in 2019–20. But there’s more to home invasion than simply losing money or other valuable possessions. When someone breaks into your house, they steal more than just your possessions; they also rob you of your sense of security. Don’t allow yourself to be among the 4%. Here, you’ll discover how to defend your home against invasion and receive advice on how to spot and prevent burglars and other measures you can take to keep your house and family safe.

Keep Doors and Windows Locked At All Times

It’s incredible to consider that such a straightforward strategy might have a significant impact on the likelihood that your property will be broken into. You see, home invaders don’t bang on doors and or shatter windows. These will only create noise and expose them. Unlocked doors and windows provide them with the simple, discrete access they need while staking out a house. 

Never leave your doors and windows open or unlocked. This will only send a message to anyone looking for a quick hit that they can easily enter your home silently. If you wish to keep windows open at night for some fresh evening breeze, be sure to engage window night locks on. Having some home window security locks will allow you to sleep comfortably and with peace of mind.

Change The Locks To A New Home

Have you recently moved into a new neighbourhood? If yes, do you know who has keys to your new home? The landlord? The previous owners, maybe? Even if you trust these people, keep in mind that this means you’re not the only one who has access to your home. 

The most sensible thing to do when you’ve moved into a new home is to invest in quality home security window locks and security door locks for homes. You have so many options for a new set of door locks. One is a smart lock that lets you program a code into your main door so that the only way in is by entering the key through the lock or through an app on your phone.

Install Motion Sensor Lighting

Intruders frequently target homes where the occupants are absent or asleep. Their main objective is to avoid being observed by neighbours who could call the police. For this reason, it makes sense to put outside lights around the outside of your house. 

You may easily discourage burglars from trying to break into your property with the help of these lights. When someone approaches too closely to your home, motion-activated door lights, floodlights, and other exterior lights will instantly switch on.

Invest in Video Doorbells and a CCTV Security Systems

A video doorbell warns you whenever someone approaches your home, allowing you to keep track of people going in and out of your house, such as your children, cleaning staff, neighbours, salespeople, and so on. Smart doorbells give an all-around security experience that rivals outside security cameras, thanks to their high-quality video, night vision, motion detection, and two-way communication. 

As for a CCTV security system, in the event of an intrusion in your property, a CCTV camera provides solid evidence that a crime occurred. Furthermore, it aids the necessary authorities in apprehending those implicated.

Additional Considerations

Don’t Post Your Whereabouts on Social Media

It takes one social media post to make your home a target. Your risk of getting robbed is higher if there are already people who are scouting your home. They’ll just wait for the right opportunity and invade your premises. If you want to share your latest escapade on social media, wait until you get back to do so.

Keep Garage Door Closed

To keep the space safe and decrease the possibility of potential intruders seeing what you’ve put in there, keep the garage door closed at all times unless you’re actively working in it. The garage is a favourite of home invaders since it can easily hide their activity and give them direct access to the house. Keeping the habit of closing the garage doors when you’re not using the garage will significantly improve the security of your home.

Plant Shrubs and Trees Strategically

Some types of plants can be used as deterrents. Thorny plants and bushes, such as holly and roses, for instance, are great options. It’s also important to allow for a good line of sight to windows and entrances. To keep your property from being vulnerable to break-ins. Finally, regularly prune the plants. Unkempt hedges provide hiding places for offenders.

Secure All Valuables in a Home Safe

If your home has been broken into, you may minimise the financial damage by placing valuables in a well-hidden safe. Extra cash, jewellery, and information that may be used to commit identity theft, such as your passports or social security cards, should all be kept in a home safe.

Conclusion 

The thought of a home invasion is terrifying, but don’t let that stop you from taking precautions to make your house safer. While there is no way to completely avoid a home invasion, these suggestions can help make your home less enticing to potential thieves and give you better defences. Speaking of defences, one of the best ways to defend your home is to invest in quality home security locks. And what better place to get them than The Lock Shop Australia? At The Lock Shop, you can gain access to a wide range of home security locks and latches and the best smart door locks for home security.

If you live in one of the 9.8 million Australian households, a well-planned security system can help deter those looking to break in and steal property. Quality door locks are the best way to keep unwanted guests at bay.

Here, we'll talk about some things you should look for in traditional and smart door locks. Read on to learn how to secure your home and what specific products can help you do so.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Door Lock

Since 4.3% of Australians experience home burglaries each year, you must be meticulous in choosing a door lock. This means looking at the types of locks available to you. It also means considering their function within your home.

Type of Door Lock

There are three standard door lock types that you can choose from.

A conventional lock is a classic staple of home security. They come with sliding bolts and keys that click them into place. They never go out of style because you have complete control over them with a unique key.

A smart door lock is a modern alternative to traditional staples. These electronic door locks open wirelessly once they authenticate the identity of the person trying to enter. They do not need a key but operate with a code, fingerprint, facial recognition system, or smartphone app.

Retrofit smart door locks combine the best of both worlds.

The exterior of your door remains a traditional lock-and-key bolt. However, the interior part of the lock is replaced by a digital door lock. This means that you can use either your key or your digital system when trying to enter your home.

Function

It's important to consider the intended function of a lock when making your selection. For example, a front door lock will require a more intensive security system than one installed between rooms in your home for privacy among housemates. In addition, think about the consequences of a break-in and the likelihood that one will happen when choosing a lock.

Aesthetics

It's also essential that your door handle and lock don't look tacky. Consider the decor of the area surrounding them. For example, a shining gold knob may provide a needed accent on your home's exterior. At the same time, a keypad door lock will take up less space and remain subtle.

Endurance

Quality lock prices can range from $100-$700. Many people shirk them because of this price and purchase cheap locks for under $100 instead. They think that this saves them money, but it doesn't.

Well-made locks are an investment that lasts a long time. The right lock can last you for over a decade, while poorly-made ones may need annual replacement. You won't just have a more secure building but will also save money in the long term.

Top Door Locks From The Lock Shop

No one can beat The Lock Shop when it comes to functional, high-quality, and durable door locks. Our brand is one of the leading players in Australian security applications because of our commitment to quality. We also offer a diverse range of locks so that you can choose the perfect option for your home.

ADI Blocklok Double 444DD

This lock is ideal for securing double doors. Both shop fronts and homes can benefit. It also works as both hinged and sliding door locks.

It is made in Australia and features hardened steel pins and a steel locking bolt. You can choose between a satin chrome and black finish to match your exterior design. As with all our locks, you will also be given the mounting template and all components to fix it to your door securely.

Lockwood 005 Double Cylinder Deadbolt

This is an excellent choice if you're looking for a conventional and durable lock. It conforms to durability requirements outlined in Australian guidelines and is made from durable stainless steel. It also has a cross-grain door frame strengthening screw for maximum security.

This lock also prioritises aesthetics with both round and square styles. Round designs are a great choice if you want something to go with more organic decor. However, contemporary homeowners can benefit from square designs.

Gainsborough Trilock Traditional Lever

As another conventional key lock for the traditional homeowner, the Gainsborough Trilock Traditional Lever is a great way to secure your home. It has four fixing points to make it the strongest possible lock so no one can break in from the outside. Its brass bolt is incredibly strong and opens with a key, so you don't even need to have a free hand for the lever.

Lockwood Onyx Patio Sliding Door Lock

If you're looking for a sliding or screen door lock, this is a great modern choice to secure your home or commercial building effectively. Its twin locking beaks add security, and the close lock detect feature keeps your door safe from slamming-related damage. It also incorporates digital lock features like a LockAlert® indicator and DualSelect® two-stage locking.

Carbine Electronic Touchpad RFID Leverset

If you're looking at front door locks that combine both keyed and keyless features, this option will give you the best of both worlds. It has an LED keypad for code entry and RFID card/sticker entry options. You also can use key override features to enter manually, making this a versatile and secure choice for both homeowners and commercial building owners.

McGrath Digital Bluetooth Lock

Those looking for convenient and secure digital door locks may want to consider Bluetooth locking technology. This keyless door lock unlocks via Bluetooth, pin code, RFID card, or manual keys. Bluetooth is great because it hooks directly to your smartphone app for quick and easy opening.

Schlage Omina™ Smart Lock

Schlage Omina™ may be one of the best digital door lock options on the market. You can control it using the Schlage Breeze app on your smartphone, which can sustain up to 150 custom and 150 scheduled codes. This keeps you secure at all times because there are multiple lock options available each time you come and go.

This lock is also great because it listens to and interprets voice commands. All you need to do is hook it to Google Assistant or Amazon's Alexa technologies. You can also send virtual keys to guests, employees, and recurring visitors that you want to give access to your home or commercial space.

Get a Top-Notch Door Lock Today

It's critical that you only choose security door locks from reputable providers. Choosing The Lock Shop ensures that you will get a high-quality product that can truly keep your home and its contents safe.

It also means you'll get a durable door handle lock that will last many years without expensive and time-consuming replacement. Contact us to discuss your needs and find the right door lock for your home.

As an Australian homeowner, you understand the value of security. That's why you make intelligent financial decisions, like taking out a homeowner's insurance policy for your house.

What if we told you that taking extra precautions was also a great way to save on homeowner's insurance? That's right, increasing home security can save you up to 15% on your homeowner's insurance premium.

Today, we'll talk about increasing window security with window security locks, contact alarms, and more. The best part is that these tips don't just work at home. They're also perfect for your office.

Ready to get started? Read on for five great tips to increase window security at your home and office. 

Check Windows Frequently

It's easy to overlook the basics of window security, which can include frequent assessments of the windows themselves. Get into the habit of checking all windows, especially those on the first floor, for signs of wear and tear. When your windows are weakened or damaged, they are less secure and leave your home and office more vulnerable to break-ins. 

What kinds of wear or damage should you look for? Assess for signs of:

• chips or cracks in the glass
• warping frames
• loose frames or glass
• rusting or broken locks

If you notice any of these signs, ensure they are fixed immediately. Work and home window security starts with structurally sound windows. 

Install Contact Alarms

An alarm system is one of the best ways to lower your monthly insurance premiums. A complete alarm system will monitor activity near all entry points to your home and office, including doors, windows, and even driveways or garages. 

If you're looking for a low-cost but effective solution, install home security window sensors, also referred to as contact alarms. Contact alarms work by alerting you any time a monitored window is opened. 

Basic contact alarms typically can't monitor a window that has been broken rather than opened. Because burglars often target offices, you may also want to invest in a glass break sensor. As the name suggests, a glass break sensor will alert you when it picks up on the sound of broken glass, indicating that someone has broken your window. 

Simple contact and glass break systems will send an alert directly to your phone. More sophisticated systems will automatically alert a security company, which can further assess the situation and call the police when necessary. 

Invest in Safety Windows

If you notice that any of your windows are damaged, or you simply want to upgrade to something safer, consider investing in safety windows (aka security windows). Safety windows are tougher than regular windows, comprised of layers of robust and durable glass. An added penetration-resistant layer between each layer makes them even tougher to break.

When you choose the best security windows for homes and offices, you transform your windows from a potential access point to a nearly impenetrable barrier. That said, there are several different types of safety glass to choose from, and it's important to understand the differences between each.

Two cheaper options include toughened glass and security window film that you can apply to your existing windows. While these options do increase security to some degree, their primary purpose is to keep the glass from shattering into dangerous shards. Therefore, they are not necessarily designed to prevent breakage altogether.

The best choice is laminated glass. When laminated glass takes a blow, it cracks into a web-like pattern without shattering or forming an entry point. It takes several attempts to break through laminated glass, giving you and your security team more time to prevent a break-in. 

Install Security Barriers for Windows

What if your windows are easy to access from the ground or a fire escape? What if your office is located in an area that is prone to frequent break-ins and thefts? If so, you may want to opt for one of the best window security measures out there: security barriers.

Security barriers are made of metal or wire mesh. These barriers are installed on the outside of a window so that you can still use the window from inside (i.e. opening and closing it with ease). 

The best part about security barriers in the 21st century is that we now have far more options to choose from than traditional bars. In addition, you can find security bars in different patterns and with various treatments to better align with the overall aesthetic of your home or office. 

Invest in High-Quality Window Locks

High-quality locks are an integral part of security. Without them, your property is far more susceptible to break-ins. That said, it's surprising how few property owners take the time to investigate the quality of their locks.

You should always buy your security window locks from reputable brands, including:

• Doric
• Lockwood
• Whitco
• Schlage

Unlocked doors and windows are the most common entry point for intruders. Take the time to investigate your window security locks and research the brand. Then, test your locked windows from the outside to ensure that the lock is actually holding.

If you discover that your locks aren't high-quality or aren't doing the trick anymore, it's time to invest in something new. Consider sliding window security locks, sash window security locks, or aluminium siding window security locks.

Get Your Window Locks From a Reliable Source

Window security is one of the most critical elements of home and office security. By increasing your window security, you can make your home far less vulnerable and lower the cost of your monthly insurance premiums. The key is to make sure you're purchasing things like window locks from a reliable source.

The Lock Shop is one of Australia's premier sources for home and business security solutions. Take a look at our full collection of window security locks and upgrade your property's security today.

Windows are how homeowners connect with the outside world from the inside. You get access to the sunlight and can see everything happening from the safety of your home. However, windows aren't always the most secure parts of your house.

When it comes down to it, a window is just a pane or multiple panes of glass held inside a frame. Most of them open up and are held shut by a simple window lock. But not all locks are made the same or offer the same level of security. 

Here are some of the different types of window locks and why you should make the upgrade.

Why Choosing the Right Window Lock is Critical to Home Security

Did you know that your windows are one of the most overlooked aspects of your home when it comes to security? Almost a fourth of all burglars enter homes through the windows. They're often left unlocked or open for long periods and forgotten about when people leave the house.

Furthermore, windows are some of the least secure parts of your house. A person could tackle an adequately secured door and fail to knock it down, but many windows are only glass and wood. Once they've opened that window, the burglar has also created an escape route. 

One of the best ways to keep intruders out of your house is to use a lock that they can't break. Even better than that would be a lock they can't pick. 

Which Rooms Require Window Locks?

Not every window necessarily needs a sturdy lock. The most considerable risk comes from areas people can easily access, like a ground floor room. Locks for windows aren't always required if the window is three stories up.

Windows considered "easily accessible" include those next to a flat roof, balcony, or similar structure. For example, a window connected to a fire escape could be easily accessed by any stranger or neighbour. Even a rainwater pipe could be scaled to reach a window. 

Based on that factor, you'll need to make the best judgement when upgrading your window security. If your home is a one-story building, then you should go ahead and add a new lock to all of them. 

Types of Window Locks to Choose From

There are many window lock types available to choose from. Some focus more on accessibility, while others offer more security. You choose which lock for windows based on what fits your overall aesthetic.

For example, Lockwood window locks are electric and have touch keypads to control. Whitco window locks can be easily unlocked from the inside with a push-to-open or twist and pull function. 

Window Latch

A sash window lock, or latch, is one of the most common locks that come with most windows. It connects two sashes of the window, so it won't move when the latch is flipped or pressed down. 

The problem with sash window locks is that it's easy not to close them all the way. If the window is even the slightest bit unlatched, it'll slide open with force. 

Keyed Lock

Keyed locks offer an extra layer of security that most other locks don't provide. They're often paired with another, such as a latch, for double protection. You can find these locks utilised on hung and sliding windows. 

Much like a keyed door knob, you have to use a key to open and close it. As long as you don't lose your key, you'll have easy access to your windows.

Sliding Window Lock

Sliding window locks go onto sliding doors. They have a pin that screws into your sliding window track, preventing anyone from opening it. Using them is as simple as pressing or pushing the pin into place. 

The problems with locks for sliding windows are the same as with a latch. If an aluminium sliding window lock isn't closed all the way, it's easy to brute force it open. 

Hinged Wedge Lock

Hinged wedge locks are unique, allowing for more control over how much a window opens. 

If they're placed further down, the window can only open so much before it hits resistance. If they're placed further up, the window can be fully opened. 

Keep in mind that if the wedge is stuck to velcro, it won't stay as secure if it gets dirty. 

Swivel Action Lock

Swivel action locks for your windows are self-locking. They're equipped with a snib, which is like a catch. It stops the window from reopening after it's shut. 

In order to open it again, you'll need to turn the snib. This will release the lock. 

Window Pin Lock

A window pin lock is similar to the chain locks or tiny bars you'll see on a door. One part is attached to the sash and the other to the frame. 

Some of these function with a solid bar that slides into the lock, preventing movement much like a bolt on a door. Others use a chain or cable that secures the window to the frame. 

Handle Lock

Handle locks are simple options like a latch. When you turn the handle, the window opens. These are relatively low profile but may be difficult to lock properly if the handle gets stuck or refuses to turn. 

Folding Latch

A folding latch is found on casement windows. It's embedded into the frame and keeps it locked when turned down. Turn it up to release the lock.

Child Safety Latch

Some window locks are easy to open, even for children. The last thing you want is your toddler wiggling their way through a window and out into the world alone. 

Child safety window locks allow you to secure a window so that it won't open more than a few inches. That way, you can open them up to let in some air, and your child won't be able to fit through the gap. 

Get Your Window Lock From a Reliable Source

There are a lot of different window lock options out there to secure your home. Some are more about convenience than safety, while others help fortify your house against outside intruders. Either way, your first concern should be finding a reliable lock retailer. 

The Lock Shop has everything you need for security, from safe storage to digital locks. If you need new window locks, look no further. Check out our stock online, and contact us if you have any questions.