I’m moving into a new room, but there’s a small gap in the door, and my younger siblings have figured out how to open it by slipping something in between. Now that this room will be mine, I want to make sure my stuff stays private. Should I replace the lock, or maybe it’s just an issue with the door gap? What’s the best move here?
Do they actually pick the lock with tools or do they just slip something thin between the door and frame to force it open?
If there’s a gap, it’s probably easy for them to slip something in. A real lock-pick takes more skill.
If you’re looking for a cheap fix, try adjusting the strike plate so the door fully closes. It might solve the problem.
If you’re okay spending a little, you could either replace the current lock or add a deadbolt.
@ashionaa
Adding a deadbolt would be the most secure solution.
Mikayla said:
@ashionaa
Adding a deadbolt would be the most secure solution.
Can I install a deadbolt on a standard door? I didn’t see any handle options that include deadbolts.
Mikayla said:
@ashionaa
Adding a deadbolt would be the most secure solution.
Can I install a deadbolt on a standard door? I didn’t see any handle options that include deadbolts.
The deadbolt would be a separate piece from the handle. Even if you fix the strike plate or replace the handle, the deadbolt provides extra security.
A deadbolt can’t be opened with a card or similar trick.
@Mikayla
How do I adjust the strike plate?
Barry said:
@Mikayla
How do I adjust the strike plate?
Not totally sure, but you may need to consult a locksmith for the best advice. My brother is one, and he always says it’s trickier than it seems.
@ashionaa
Yeah, they just slide something between the door and frame. I didn’t even know there was a name for that. What should I do from here?
Barry said:
@ashionaa
Yeah, they just slide something between the door and frame. I didn’t even know there was a name for that. What should I do from here?
The strike plate is the metal piece on the frame where the door latch fits. To stop them from sliding something in, you want no gap there.
To fix this, unscrew the strike plate and move it closer to the door, then screw it back in. Sometimes, gaps are due to a poorly done job on the plate, so it may have been filed wider to make it ‘fit better.’ If that’s the case, try turning it around or finding a new plate at a hardware store.
If it’s just family, this should be enough. But if you’re worried about anyone else getting in, keep in mind that some people might have keys you don’t know about.
A locksmith could rekey it, but it’s pricey, and your current handle isn’t exactly top quality. Instead, you might find a similar handle at a store that fits the same holes. It would mean a new key you can keep secure.
For higher security, you could add a basic deadbolt along with the handle. Use the regular lock when you’re in the room, and the deadbolt when you’re out. Even a basic deadbolt is a big step up in security for a bedroom.
Installing a deadbolt isn’t too hard. You’ll need a drill, some basic tools, and about 30 minutes. Just make sure the door is thick enough and that the handle doesn’t get blocked by the new lock.
Also, check if your parents or landlord would be okay with a deadbolt on an inside door. Some people are not thrilled about it for a bedroom.
Try adjusting the strike plate first, then maybe upgrade to a matching handle. A deadbolt might be overkill unless you’re really worried about break-ins!