Are you left scratching your head, wondering how to lock a push bar door from the outside? You’re not alone. Push bar doors with an emergency exit can be confusing and tricky – so much so that they seem almost impossible to secure! However, there are simple solutions available.
In this blog post, we will walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to easily secure any push bar door from the outside in no time at all! From basic tools and hardware components to different types of locks for every occasion, you’ll soon become an expert on properly locking these kinds of doors with minimal effort. Read on for more information!
Needed Materials
Given below is a list of the materials needed to lock a push bar door from the outside:
- Push Bar With an Emergency Exit
- Lock & Key
- Hammer and Nails (Optional)
- Screws (Optional)
- Drill and Drill Bits (Optional)
11 Step-by-step Guides on How to Lock a Push Bar Door From the Outside
Step 1: Choosing the Right Lock for Your Door
The first step in properly securing any push bar door from the outside is to select the right lock for it. Depending on whether you want a permanent or temporary lock, you’ll need to choose between a padlock or a deadbolt. Additionally, consider the size and type of door that you will be locking as this can help determine which lockset is best.
It is important to select a lock that fits properly onto the frame of the door, so make sure you measure and compare your options before making a purchase. But don’t worry – no matter the size or type of door you have, there will likely be a perfect lock to fit it! This is why it is important to measure ahead of time.
Step 2: Installing the Lock
Once you’ve chosen the right lock for your needs, it’s time to install it! Begin by determining whether the door frame is strong enough to hold a deadbolt or if you need to use a padlock instead. If using screws, pre-drill the holes and place the screws into the door frame.
If using nails, use a hammer to nail them in place. It is important to make sure the screws or nails are properly secured and can’t be easily removed from the outside. But don’t worry – if you can’t get a proper fit with screws or nails, there are other solutions. This includes using a drill and drill bit to create an additional hole in the door frame for the lock to fit into.
Step 3: Affixing the Lock to the Door Frame
Attach the lock to the door frame. If using a padlock, thread it through and close it securely. For deadbolts, insert it into the hole you pre-drilled and then line up the bolt with the hole in the door frame. Secure it tightly into place, making sure it’s firmly secured. It is important to make sure the bolt or padlock is aligned properly and that everything is secured tightly. This is to ensure the door cannot be opened from the outside without first unlocking it. It is also important to check that the keyhole is properly protected – this will prevent anyone from using a wire or tool to unlock the lock.
Step 4: Adjusting the Lock
Once your lock is attached to the door frame, you will need to adjust it so that it works correctly. Use a screwdriver to make small adjustments to ensure that the lock is aligned properly and functions without any issues. But don’t worry – if you make a mistake, you can always start from scratch and adjust it again until it works correctly. However, it is important to make sure the lock is adjusted properly before moving on. It is also important to make sure the keyhole alignment is correct. If it isn’t, the lock won’t open or close properly.
Step 5: Adding an Extra Layer of Security (Optional)
If you require a higher level of security, consider adding an extra layer of protection with a hammer and nails or screws. This will prevent anyone from easily tampering with the lock and provides added peace of mind. This is an optional step, so there’s no need to do it if you don’t feel it is necessary for your needs.
Additionally, consider adding a security camera in the area surrounding the push bar door. This will act as another layer of protection and alert you if anyone tries to tamper with the lock or gain unauthorized access in any way.
Step 6: Finishing Touches (Optional)
If you’d like to spruce up the look of your new lock, consider adding some finishing touches. You can paint the lock to match its surroundings or add decorative accents such as screws and nails. This will make the door more aesthetically pleasing, while still providing an additional layer of security. But don’t worry – even if you choose not to add these finishing touches, the lock will still be secure! This is an optional step, so feel free to forego it if you’d like.
Step 7: Testing the Lock
Once you’ve put everything together, it’s time to test out your new lock! Try opening and closing the door repeatedly to make sure that the lock is secure and functions properly. If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to adjust or replace components as necessary. It is important to make sure that the lock works correctly before declaring it secure. But don’t worry – if it doesn’t work the first time, you can always try again until it does. This is why it’s important to carefully read the instructions and test out your lock before using it.
Step 8: Storing the Key
Once you’ve successfully tested the lock, it’s important to store the key in a safe and secure location. This could be somewhere near the door, such as a nearby wall or cabinet. It is also advisable that emergency access keys are kept separate from regular access keys to ensure that they are not accidentally used. Although it may seem like an unnecessary step, storing keys properly is important to ensure the security of your lock.
Step 9: Properly Disposing of the Old Lock
If you had an old lock installed prior to your new one, be sure to properly dispose of it. This will prevent anyone from taking advantage of a vulnerable door or gaining access to unauthorized areas. Consider cutting off the lock and disposing of it in a safe and secure manner. It is important to make sure that the old lock is not accessible to anyone who might try to use it. But don’t worry – if you properly dispose of the old lock, you won’t have anything to worry about!
Step 10: Regularly Inspecting the Lock
Finally, be sure to regularly inspect your new lock for any signs of wear or damage. This will help to ensure that it is always functioning properly and securely. If you notice any issues, don’t hesitate to contact a locksmith to make repairs or replacements as needed. This will help to keep your lock functioning optimally and ensure that it is always secure.
Step 11: Enjoy the Peace-of-Mind!
With a properly installed and functioning lock from the outside, you can now enjoy peace-of-mind knowing that your property is safe and secure. Now, all that’s left to do is sit back, relax, and breathe easy knowing that your push bar door is locked securely from the outside. Always remember to inspect the lock regularly and replace any parts as needed.
Locking a push bar door from the outside may seem like an intimidating task, but with these step-by-step instructions you can quickly and easily become an expert in securing any push bar door! Keep these tips in mind for your next project and you’ll be locking doors like a pro in no time at all.
If you find that these instructions aren’t quite enough or you’d like some extra guidance, don’t hesitate to contact a professional locksmith for additional help and advice. They will be able to assist with any installation, repair, or replacement needs that you may have – so don’t be afraid to ask!
Now that you know how to lock a push bar door from the outside, it’s time to get out there and start protecting your property! With these steps in mind, you can rest easy knowing that your doors are secure and safe from any unwanted visitors. Happy locking!
Do You Need to Use Professionals?
If you find that the steps above are too complex or time-consuming to complete on your own, you may need to contact a professional locksmith. A locksmith can help with any installation, repair, or replacement needs that you may have – so don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. They will be able to provide expert advice and guidance when it comes to properly securing your push bar door from the outside.
In addition, if you have any questions or concerns about the locks that you’ve installed, a professional locksmith can provide valuable insight into how best to maintain and care for them. To ensure that your new lock is always functioning correctly, be sure to contact a trustworthy locksmith for regular maintenance and inspections.
Additional Tips
- When Selecting a Lock, Consider the Size and Type of Door That You Are Locking.
- Use Screws or Nails to Affix the Lock to the Door Frame Securely. If Possible, Use an Extra Layer of Security With a Hammer and Nails or Screws.
- Make Small Adjustments With a Screwdriver When Necessary.
- Store Keys in a Safe and Secure Location.
- Properly Dispose of Any Old Locks.
- Regularly Inspect the Lock for Signs of Damage or Wear.
- If in Doubt, Contact a Professional Locksmith for Assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Lock a Push Bar Door From the Inside?
A: Yes, it is possible to lock a push bar door from the inside using either a deadbolt or padlock. However, depending on the type of door you are trying to secure, some locks may not be suitable. Consult with a professional locksmith for additional advice and assistance.
Q: What Type of Lock Should I Use?
A: The type of lock you should use will depend on the door you are trying to secure and the level of security that you require. Generally speaking, a deadbolt is recommended for more permanent solutions while padlocks may be suitable for temporary uses. Consult with a professional locksmith for additional advice and assistance.
Q: What Should I Do If My Lock Breaks?
A: If your lock breaks or becomes damaged, it’s important to contact a professional locksmith as soon as possible. They will be able to assess the situation and provide guidance on which type of replacement lock is best for your needs. Never attempt to repair a lock yourself unless you are trained to do so.
Q: Is it Necessary to Install the Lock From the Outside?
A: Generally speaking, it is recommended that locks are installed from the outside of the door in order to keep the interior of the room secure. However, if necessary, locks can also be installed from the inside. Consult with a professional locksmith for additional advice and assistance.
Conclusion
In conclusion on how to lock a push bar door from the outside, when it comes to locking a push bar door from the outside, you need to keep several important factors in mind. Firstly, you’ll need a key or access card that corresponds to the particular lock model of the door. Secondly, depending on the lock model, you may have to choose between two methods: deadlocking the bolt or engaging the latch bolt.
And thirdly, with either method, you should make sure the door is properly closed before locking it for maximum security. We hope this blog post has helped provide clarity and peace of mind when it comes to fully ensuring security of your home or business. Thank you for reading!