How to Replace a Lock on a Garage Door

Every now and then, it's necessary to replace a garage door lock. No matter what type of lock you currently have, there are many options from which to choose, including garage door handles with locks, slide locks, and heavy-duty garage door locks. Replacing an old garage door slide lock with a new one is a simple process that can be completed in a few easy steps. Anyone can easily replace a garage door lock. All you need is a replacement lock, a drill, the hardware that comes with the replacement lock, and the garage door lock mechanism diagram.

There are many ways to securely lock your garage door. Some of them are less expensive than others. For instance, if you are on a budget, you can use a C-clamp to prevent your garage door from opening by placing the clamp directly above a garage door roller. Whenever someone tries to slide the door open, the roller will hit the clamp and prevent it from opening.

This same method can be achieved by using a matching bolt and nut set or a padlock. Simply drill a hole in the garage door track above the roller and thread the bolt and nut into it. Whenever you need to open the door again, remove the nut and bolt with a wrench.

However, if you want a professional lock that is specifically designed to keep your door secure, then a slide garage door lock is a great way to keep your garage safe.

Before beginning the replacement process, you first need to know which type of slide garage door lock you'll be replacing: lever-actuated or manual. A lever-actuated lock is attached to a wire that runs to garage door handles on the outside of the house. When the garage door handles are turned, so does the lock inside the garage door.

A manual system is a simple lock that you manually slide from inside the garage. The manual lock bars anyone on the outside from entering. Before buying a replacement, be sure to consult the garage door lock mechanism diagram of the new lock you are purchasing to see if it will be a suitable replacement for the old lock.

Begin the installation process by closing your garage door. If your door is automatic, unplug the opener to prevent anyone from opening it by accident when you are working on it. Next, actuate the lock so that the bolt is protruding in the locked position. Then, place the new lock where the old lock used to be. Make sure that the locking mechanism extends through the hole in your garage door track right where the old lock used to secure the door closed.

Next, check to see if the mounting holes on the new lock align with the screw holes that were drilled into the door for the old lock. If the holes align, simply screw in the mounting screws that come with your new garage lock hardware. If the holes do not align, you will need to predrill holes to fit the new hardware.

Install the lock by screwing in the new hardware and you're all set. You can also add a padlock to the locking mechanism for extra protection.