Locking a door with pennies might seem unconventional, but in certain situations, it can serve as a practical and makeshift solution to bolster your door’s security. When you’re in a pinch and need a quick way to enhance your door’s locking mechanism, using pennies can be surprisingly effective. This guide will walk you through the process of how to lock a door with pennies, providing an added layer of safety and peace of mind.
From understanding the simple yet clever concept to implementing it on your own door, we’ll explain the steps to help you achieve a more secure living or working space. So, if you’re looking for a cost-effective and resourceful approach to enhance your door’s security, let’s explore the clever tactic of using pennies to lock a door effectively.
The Unconventional Method of Using Pennies to Lock a Door
If you’re tight on money and can’t afford to replace your door’s current locking mechanism, there is an unconventional way to secure your entryway with pennies. It may not be the most aesthetically pleasing solution, but it will still keep intruders from entering your home.
Plus, this method has been around for centuries! HOwever, keep in mind that this technique is not a long-term solution and should only be used as an emergency way to secure your door until you can purchase a more reliable lock.
When and Why Someone Might Consider Using Pennies as a Makeshift Lock
Pennies can be used as a makeshift lock in certain situations. This is especially true if you are in an emergency situation where you don’t have access to the proper locks or tools. For instance, if you find yourself locked out of your house with no spare key, using pennies as a way to get back inside could save time and money. Additionally, it may be useful if you are traveling and need to lock up your valuables in a locker or other storage unit, yet don’t have access to the proper locks.
Using pennies as a makeshift lock should be used as an emergency measure only, since it is not nearly as secure as using a more traditional locking mechanism. It does, however, provide a certain sense of security if you need to leave your home or possessions unattended for any length of time.
10 Steps How to Lock a Door with Pennies
1. Gather the Materials
In order to lock a door with pennies, you will need two pennies, a flathead screwdriver, and a drill (if needed). You will also need access to the inside of the door in order to complete the task.
2. Remove the Existing Lock
The first step is to remove the existing lock from the door. This can be done by using a flathead screwdriver to unscrew the screws that attach the lock to the door frame. Once all of the screws have been removed, carefully remove the lock from the door frame.
3. Drill Holes for Pennies
If necessary, drill two small holes in either side of your door frame near where your existing lock was located. The size of these holes should be slightly larger than your pennies so that they can fit snugly into them when inserted.
4. Insert Pennies Into Holes
Once you have drilled your holes, insert one penny into each hole until it is flush with the door frame. Make sure that both pennies are inserted in an upright position and that they are not loose or wobbly when touched.
5. Secure Pennies With Screws
After inserting both pennies into their respective holes, use screws to secure them firmly in place. Make sure that you use screws that are slightly longer than those used for your original lock so that they can penetrate through both sides of your door frame and hold your pennies securely in place.
6. Test The Lock
Once all of your screws have been tightened, test out your new locking mechanism by closing and opening your door several times to make sure it is working properly and securely locking when closed. If everything appears to be working correctly then you have successfully locked your door with pennies!
7. Replace Existing Lock Plate (Optional)
If desired, you can replace your existing lock plate with one that fits around both of your newly installed pennies for added security and aesthetics purposes (this step is optional). Simply unscrew any remaining screws on your old lock plate and replace it with a new one before securing it back onto the door frame with new screws as before.
8. Add Lubricant To Moving Parts (Optional)
If desired, you can add lubricant such as WD-40 or graphite powder to any moving parts such as hinges or locks on either side of your newly installed penny locking mechanism for smoother operation over time (this step is optional). This will help prevent any squeaking noises or sticking issues due to friction between metal parts over time which could potentially give away its location if not addressed properly beforehand!
9. Install Doorstop On Inside Of Door (Optional)
In addition to adding lubricant, if desired you can also install a doorstop on either side of your newly installed penny locking mechanism for extra security purposes (this step is optional). A simple rubber or plastic wedge placed underneath each side of the doorknob will help prevent anyone from being able to open it from outside without first unlocking it from inside first – providing an extra layer of security against unwanted intruders!
10. Enjoy Your New Security Measure!
Congratulations – you have now successfully locked a door with just two simple pennies! Now enjoy peace-of-mind knowing that you have added an extra layer of security against unwanted intruders while also keeping costs down at home or at work – all thanks to this simple DIY project!
Things to Consider When Locking a Door with Pennies
Pennies may seem like a good way to make sure your door stays locked, but there are some things to keep in mind before trying it out.
- Make sure the pennies you use are uncirculated or newer ones. Older coins will likely not fit snugly into the door frame and could be easily slipped out.
- If possible, try to use pennies from different years. This will ensure that the coins fit more securely and will be harder to remove.
- Make sure the coins are in good condition – no dents, scratches or discolouration. If they’re damaged, they won’t fit as well and could even jam up the door frame!
- Consider the size of your doorway – larger doorways may require more pennies than smaller ones.
- Remember to always place the pennies in the same direction. This will make sure that the coins fit snugly and won’t be easily removed.
- Make sure you have a backup method of entering your home (e.g., a spare key or combination lock). This will ensure that you don’t get locked out in the event of an emergency.
- If possible, add additional security measures to your door (e.g., locks and bolts). Pennies may be a good way to provide temporary security, but they are not a replacement for traditional door locking mechanisms.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incorrectly locking a door can be a dangerous mistake. Here are a few things to keep in mind when using pennies to lock your door:
- Make sure the pennies are facing the same direction! It’s important to ensure that all of the pennies are facing the same way so that the spacing between them is uniform. If they’re not, it can be difficult to get the door closed and locked properly.
- Avoid using too many or too few pennies! Too many pennies will make the gap between them too wide, while too few pennies won’t adequately fill the gap. The best way to gauge how many pennies you need is by trial and error.
- Inspect your door and frame before locking it! Make sure that the pennies fit snuggly in the gap and that there are no loose pieces or cracks. If you find any, make sure to repair them before locking your door with pennies.
- Check the locked position of your door after you’ve closed it. Grab ahold of the doorknob and give it a gentle shake. If it feels loose, you may need to add more pennies or readjust the existing ones.
It’s important to remember that locking your door with pennies is not a foolproof method. It can be easier for someone to force their way in if they know how many pennies are locking your door and where they’re placed.
Conclusion
All in all, with the few items needed and steps provided, it’s possible to secure your home in a pinch using just pennies. Moreover, this method still ensures that your door is closed and secure, so no potential intruder can access your living space.
Now that you know how to lock a door with pennies, you’ll never have to worry about forgetting the key to your apartment or home ever again! To hone this skill even further, practice storing the items you need on hand at all times neararear entrances of your home.
This will ensure that you’re always prepared for any situation. So if you ever find yourself in an emergency without a key, remember: You don’t need much – all it takes are some copper coins to keep you safe!
