Posted on May 2nd, 2023

As an Airbnb host, you want to make sure that your guests have the best experience possible. One way to do that is to provide them with a safe and secure environment. This is where a digital door lock comes in.

With an Airbnb digital door lock, you can receive guests without having to meet them, making it a very popular trend. In addition, it prevents past guests from still having the keys to your property.

In this post, we will discuss all about digital door locks and how Erik's Helping Hands can help you install them, along with digital cameras if needed.

What is an Airbnb Digital Door Lock?

A digital door lock is an electronic lock that uses an electronic keypad or a mobile device to unlock the door. It works by using a code that is entered on the keypad, or by using a smartphone app. This code is used to unlock the door, and it can be changed as often as you like. With an Airbnb digital door lock, you can create a temporary code for your guests that will only work during their stay.

At Erik's Helping Hands, we have helped many households install digital door locks that are safer and better than traditional locks. We can recommend new digital door locks that are more commonly used, such as the Kwikset Kevo, the August Smart Lock, and the Schlage Connect.

In addition to installing digital door locks, we can also install digital cameras that will allow you to monitor your property remotely. These cameras can be set up to send notifications to your smartphone or email when someone enters your property, giving you peace of mind that your property is secure.

Other types of Door Locks

While digital door locks are becoming increasingly popular among Airbnb hosts, many people still prefer the traditional look and feel of their old mortise locks. These locks are often considered a part of the charm and character of a home, and many homeowners do not want to replace them with a modern digital lock.

Additionally, some older homes may have unique mortise locks that are not easily replaced with standard-sized modern locks. In these cases, it may be more cost-effective to repair or restore the existing lock rather than replace it.

At Erik's Helping Hands, we can work with you to repair or restore your existing lock. We have extensive experience in restoring century-old mortise locks to their original condition, ensuring that they function properly and are secure.

However, if you are an Airbnb host, it's important to consider the security of your guests. While old mortise locks may have a certain charm, they may not be the safest option for your guests. A digital door lock provides an added layer of security, as it allows you to change the code after each guest, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access your property.

Ultimately, the choice between a digital door lock and an old mortise lock comes down to personal preference and priorities. If you value the traditional look and feel of your old lock and do not have concerns about security, then restoring or repairing your existing lock may be the best option. However, if you are an Airbnb host and prioritize the safety and security of your guests, a digital door lock is the way to go.

How to Fix Common Door Lock Problems

Door locks are an essential component of home security, but over time they can start to experience problems. In this section, we'll discuss some common door lock problems and how to fix them.

Problem 1: Difficult to Turn

One of the most common door lock problems is when the lock becomes difficult to turn. This can be caused by worn-out pins or a lack of lubrication. If you're experiencing this problem, you can try the following steps to fix it:

• Remove the lock from the door.
• Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the pins and the inside of the lock mechanism.
• Reinsert the lock into the door and test it to ensure that it's working properly.

By lubricating the pins and lock mechanism, you can help prevent future problems and ensure that your door lock continues to function smoothly.

Problem 2: Loose or Wiggling Lock

Another common door lock problem is when the lock becomes loose or starts to wiggle. This can be caused by a loose screw or a damaged cylinder. To fix this problem, you can try the following steps:

• Tighten the screws that hold the lock in place. If the screws are loose, this can cause the lock to wiggle.
• If the lock is still loose, you may need to replace the cylinder. The cylinder is the part of the lock that the key goes into. Over time, the cylinder can become damaged or worn, causing the lock to become loose.

By tightening the screws or replacing the cylinder, you can ensure that your door lock is secure and functioning properly. If you're unsure how to do this, it's best to call a professional locksmith or handyman to assist you.

Problem 3: Key Stuck in Lock

If your key is stuck in the lock, there are several possible causes. One common cause is a misaligned lock mechanism, which can prevent the key from turning or getting stuck. To fix this problem, you can try the following steps:

• Remove the lock from the door.
• Check the lock mechanism to see if it's misaligned. If it is, use a screwdriver or pliers to realign it.
• Reinsert the lock into the door and test it to ensure that it's working properly.

If the key is still stuck, you may need to lubricate the lock mechanism or replace the cylinder. Again, it's best to call a professional if you're unsure how to do this.

Problem 4: Deadbolt Won't Retract

If your deadbolt won't retract, it could be due to a number of different factors. One possible cause is a misaligned strike plate, which can prevent the deadbolt from sliding in or out smoothly. To fix this problem, you can try the following steps:

• Remove the strike plate from the door frame.
• Use a chisel or sandpaper to adjust the position of the strike plate so that it lines up with the deadbolt.
• Reattach the strike plate to the door frame and test the deadbolt to ensure that it's working properly.

If the deadbolt still won't retract, you may need to replace the lock mechanism or call a professional for assistance.

Fixing vs Changing: When to Fix and When to Change my Door Lock?

When it comes to your door lock, you may be wondering whether it's better to fix it or replace it entirely. There are several factors to consider when making this decision, including the severity of the problem, the age of the lock, and your budget. Here's a closer look at when it's good to fix and when it's good to change your door lock.

When to Fix My Door Lock

If your door lock is experiencing minor problems, it may be possible to fix the problem with some simple maintenance. These might be some of the cases:

• Key is difficult to turn: If you're struggling to turn your key in the lock, it's likely due to a buildup of dirt, debris, or rust. In most cases, a simple cleaning or lubrication can fix this issue.
• Loose or misaligned lock: A lock that is loose or misaligned may not be providing the level of security you need. This can often be fixed by tightening screws or realigning the lock mechanism.
• Worn-out parts: Over time, the internal components of your door lock may become worn or damaged. This can cause the lock to malfunction, making it difficult to open or close the door. In some cases, replacing these parts can fix the issue.

Lubricating the lock pins or tightening loose screws can often solve the problem, saving you the expense of replacing the lock entirely.

Additionally, if you have a unique or antique lock that matches your home's aesthetics, it may be worth investing in repairing the existing lock instead of replacing it entirely.

When to Change My Door Lock

It might be a better idea to change the lock, if you are experiencing some of these major situations:

• Lost or stolen keys: If you lose your keys or suspect that they've been stolen, it's best to change the lock entirely. This will ensure that anyone who may have access to your keys cannot gain entry to your property.
• Moving into a new home: It's always a good idea to change the locks when moving into a new home. You never know who may have access to the previous owner's keys, and it's better to be safe than sorry.
• Upgrading security: If you're looking to upgrade the security of your property, changing your door lock can be an effective way to do so. Consider installing a higher-quality lock or one with additional security features, such as a smart lock.
• A broken cylinder or damage to the lock mechanism: It may be more cost-effective to replace the lock entirely.

Changing Your Door, Frame, and Lock

Changing your door, frame, and lock is a complex process that requires careful attention to detail to ensure everything is done correctly.

Here's a step-by-step guide to changing your door, frame, and lock:

• Measure your existing door and frame: Measure the height, width, and depth of your existing door and frame to ensure that your new door and frame will fit correctly.
• Choose your new door, frame, and lock: Choose a new door, frame, and lock that fits your security needs, energy efficiency requirements, and aesthetic preferences.
• Remove the old door and frame: Carefully remove the old door and frame, taking care not to damage the surrounding walls or trim.
• Prepare the doorway: Check the door opening for any damage, and repair if necessary. Ensure that the door opening is level and plumb.
• Install the new frame: Install the new frame, making sure that it's level and plumb. Use shims if necessary to ensure a tight fit.
• Install the new door: Carefully install the new door, ensuring that it fits snugly into the frame. Adjust the hinges as necessary to ensure that the door swings freely.
• Install the new lock: Install the new lock according to the manufacturer's instructions. Test the lock to ensure that it's working correctly.
• Check for gaps and adjust as necessary: Check for gaps around the door and frame, and adjust as necessary to ensure a tight seal.
• Finish the installation: Install any trim, weatherstripping, or other finishing touches to complete the installation.

It's essential to hire a professional handyman service to handle the installation and ensure that your new door and lock are secure and installed within a reasonable timeframe, without leaving your home vulnerable to potential security threats. With the help of experts like Erik's Helping Hands, you can rest assured that your home's security and energy efficiency will be enhanced, allowing you to sleep soundly and confidently.

Related: How to Fix Your Drywall: Tips and Tricks from the Experts

Conclusion

An Airbnb digital door lock is an excellent investment for any host who wants to provide their guests with a safe and secure environment. However, installing it is not an easy task and needs to be done properly.

At Erik's Helping Hands, we specialize in the installation of digital door locks and can help you choose the right lock for your needs. We also offer a range of other services, including door, frame, and lock replacement, as well as digital camera installation.

Contact us today to schedule our service and ensure that your Airbnb is safe and secure for your guests.