Confused

What are the things that you don't know about your home? 

They are all the important things that you don't know are important until you need to know them.  Now is that clear to everyone. 

            Now what to discuss today. Hmmm, let's see.  How about doors, or more specifically locks on doors.  This is important, because it is a little different.  With security being a big issue these days everyone should know how to maintain the little things. 

Lockset

Good locks are actually low tolerance precision instruments with very little room for error. Although, many of the less expensive ones are advertised to be consumer items they have to be installed in strict accordance with the instructions. 

            Most of the locks that I have experience with have fairly clear instructions as long as you have the right tools.  One thing that usually causes your average homeowner trouble is how much to tighten the screws.  I'm not kidding.  One of the biggest problems with lockset installation is most people have a tendency to over tighten the screws holding the lockset together.  I know all you handypeople out there think that you have to tighten things until you just can't tighten them any more, but not true in this case.  When you over tighten the screws holding the lockset together you put excess pressure (in a bending motion) on the bolt.  This causes the bolt to drag and misalign.  You can tell that the screws are too tight when it is difficult to turn the key or the door might not latch properly.

            Now, maybe you did know all that and if that is the case I apologize for repeating it.  If you didn't then you now know something about your house you didn't know before.

Jack Gilleland

Home Inspection Services, Clayton

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This post has been included in Ohio Real Estate News Montgomery County, OH Real Estate News
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12 Comments on Things to Know About Your Home 5

NOV
09
2010
265,230 Points 1 Featured Post Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Follow installation instructions on anything you install. Or hire a qualified handyman.
1:04am • #1
116,418 Points

For many years, my present to new homeowners has been to have the locks changed by a professional. They then feel that it is truly their home.
1:14am • #2
111,504 Points

Jack--you gave some very good information on locks...Very nice job.
1:15am • #3
455,427 Points 1 Featured Post

Good Morning Jack, good advice for the home owner, thanks for posting it.
6:32am • #4
975,115 Points 350 Featured Posts Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

You might probably have to repeat it again.

Oh, and again...
7:36am • #5
178,705 Points

Jon,  Good advice.

Robin, That is a great idea.

John, thanks.

Dan, Thanks for commenting.

Jay, and again. 
1:48pm • #6
NOV
10
2010
567,760 Points 140 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

I think some of those handymen have a few loose screws :)
8:50pm • #7
178,705 Points

James, I am in complete agreement.
9:49pm • #8
NOV
11
2010
937,140 Points 51 Featured Posts Called Shot Master

Jack - This series you have put together about "Things to know about your home" is very useful information!  Thank you for presenting it!
6:04am • #9
178,705 Points

Myrl, just some things that clients seem to question most often.  Thanks.
1:44pm • #10
NOV
12
2010
775,933 Points 16 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Jack, this post caught my eye for a couple of reasons.  First; I guess I'm one of those that tend to tighten things a bit too tight and will be aware of that from now on.  Second; just as a little added info about installing locks; I like to add a little oil or grease to the inner workings before I install and over tighten the screws.  The locks and knobs seem to operate more quietly and with fewer problems down the road.
11:00pm • #11
NOV
15
2010
178,705 Points

Good tip Nick.  Thanks for the comment.
12:10pm • #12


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