We all know the drill – standing in front of our door, lock and instructions in hand, pondering whether to give it a crack ourselves or ring up the local locksmith. It’s a genuine dilemma that many of us have grappled with.
After having a bit of a squiz around, we’ve rustled up some useful insights for you. In this yarn, we’ll walk you through both sides of the coin on DIY lock installation and point out when it might be time to call in the pros.
Stick around for some nifty advice!
Key Takeaways
- Installing locks yourself saves money and gives a sense of achievement.
- Lack of expertise and risk of damage can make DIY lock installation tricky.
- Professional locksmiths ensure the job is done right, offering peace of mind.
- Time and potential lack of warranty are important to consider when choosing DIY.
- Balance the perks of DIY with the benefits of professional help for home security.
Pros and Cons of DIY Lock Installation
Save on costs by installing your own locks, but consider the risks of improper installation. Enjoy the sense of
achievement from a DIY project while being aware of potential security vulnerabilities.
Cost savings
We all appreciate saving money where we can, especially in household projects. DIYoffers significant cost savings over hiring a professional locksmith. By taking on the task ourselves, we avoid labour costs which can sometimes exceed the price of locks themselves.

We only need to invest in the lock and perhaps a few tools if they aren’t already in our toolbox.
Choosing to fit our own locks allows us to shop around for the best deals on hardware, without being tied to the products a professional might recommend or have on hand. This approach not only cuts initial costs but also empowers us with knowledge about our home’s security systems that could be valuable down the line.
Sense of achievement
Achieving success with a DIY can bring a real sense of accomplishment. It’s rewarding to know that you’ve managed to improve the security of your home on your own.
Plus, mastering a new skill like lock installation could give you confidence to tackle more DIY projects around the house in the future.
The sense of achievement from successfully completing a DIY is truly empowering.
Convenience and flexibility
When fitting a lock ourselves, we can choose the time that suits us best and take breaks as needed. Also, we have the freedom to select the type of lock that meets our specific needs.
Customisation
Customisation allows you to choose the lock features that suit your specific needs, such as keyless entry or a deadbolt. You can also select the finish and style that complement your home security and aesthetic preferences.
This personal touch adds an extra layer of protection tailored towards your unique requirements, providing peace of mind knowing that it’s not merely a standard solution but one designed to enhance your home safety.
When to Call a Professional
If you lack expertise or experience in lock installation, it is advisable to consult a professional for assistance. To

learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of DIY, continue reading the blog.
Lack of expertise
Lack of expertise can lead to errors and security risks. Professional locksmiths have the training and experience to handle complex lock installations. The risk of damaging the lock or door is also higher without proper knowledge.
Seeking professional help ensures the job is done right, providing peace of mind. Let’s explore when it’s time to call a professional for your lock installation needs.
Risk of damage
Attempting DIY installation without the necessary expertise can lead to unintentional damage. This may result in additional expenses for repair or replacement. It’s important to carefully consider the potential risks before proceeding with a DIY approach.
Seeking professional assistance ensures that the job is done correctly and eliminates the risk of damage.
Limited warranty
When it comes to installing DIY locks, it’s important to consider the limited warranty that often accompanies self-installed locks. While installing a lock yourself may seem cost-effective, most manufacturers offer limited or no warranty for improperly installed locks.
This means that should any issues arise after installation, you may be responsible for additional costs or repairs.
Considering the implications of a limited warranty can help in making an informed decision about whether to install a lock yourself or seek professional assistance. Keep in mind that our expertise and knowledge are tailored to address any concerns you might have regarding your home locks, ensuring peace of mind and security.
Time-consuming
It’s important to consider the time factor when installing DIY locks. This type of project can be time-consuming and may require careful attention to detail, especially if you’re new to it.
It’s crucial to set aside a significant amount of time for research, planning, and actual installation before diving into this task.
Seeking more than just cost-savings, we must understand that installing locks ourselves might demand a considerable investment of our time.
Striking a balance between DIY and professional services
Finding the right balance between handling lock issues yourself and seeking professional assistance is crucial. While DIY projects can offer cost savings, a sense of achievement, and convenience, there are limitations to consider.
Professional locksmith services bring expertise, minimise the risk of damage, provide warranties for their work, and save you time. It’s about weighing the benefits of customisation and flexibility against the assurance of quality and expertise when it comes to ensuring the safety and security of your home.
Considering our safety is paramount; we must carefully decide whether to handle lock issues ourselves or seek professional help. Both options have advantages and disadvantages—weighing these factors will help us make an informed decision that best suits our needs.
When DIY Isn’t Enough – Enquire About Professional Help!
So, is DIY lock installation the right choice for you? Consider the advantages like cost savings and customisation while keeping in mind the potential drawbacks such as lack of expertise and risk of damage.
The key is to strike a balance between DIY and professional locksmith services. When it comes to your home’s security, make sure to weigh the pros and cons before embarking on this task.