Changing the locks in your home is one of the simplest home repair jobs there is. The first thing to do is decide what the lock is for. For example, if you are changing the doorknob or handle on a closet, you probably don't even have to bother with a lock. You can just use a free through passage doorknob or handle. If you want to lock the closet because it contains valuables or dangerous materials, you can't use this kind of doorknob.

A privacy door knob is what is usually used in bedrooms or bathrooms. They are made so that you can unlock these doors from inside the room.

Entrance locks are used where you want to limit access. You may want to put an entrance lock on the door to the garage so that young children cannot get near dangerous chemicals or tools.

Decorator type door knobs make the door look nicer. Frequently you will see them used with French doors or on patio doors. They do not lock, so you won't use them where you want to limit access. These locks come in two styles: you can have the handle inside and out, or only on one of the sides, with a plug to cover the hole.

Single deadbolt security lock. These are the most popular for home entrances. This kind of lock has one tumbler on the exterior and requires a key for entrance.

Double deadbolt security lock. If you desire extra security, you will want a double deadbolt lock. It can be secured from both the inside or the outside with a key. If you really want additional security, consider adding a chain to the door.

Latch sets with decorative deadbolts can have a knob or a handle. It is a lock with both a deadbolt and a door latching system. They can be used together or separate.

Once you know what the choices are, you can go ahead and choose the locks and handles for your home. You may need to change locks for security, or you may just want to update the look of the locks and handles in your home.

If you are changing locks, you may have to also change the latch plate. If you are getting new, better quality locks, the latch plate indentation for the old one is probably not the depth you need. Just open the plate on the latch on the inside part of the door and remove it. Then fit the new latch plate onto the hole that is already there. It it is not a good fit, you may have to shape it a little to make it fit.

You have to align the striker for the deadbolt with the opening in the frame of the door. You will not have a very secure lock if these holes do not line up.

Once you have taken these steps, use extra long screws on the areas of the plate that have already been drilled and you will make the lock more secure. Adjust it so it is tight to make sure the lock will hold.