ud83dudcda Entryway Renovation Series u2014 1 of 10
u2190 (first article) u00b7 Series Index u00b7 Entryway Renovation Vol.2: Key Lock Replacement u2192
What You’ll Learn in This Article
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Door Lock Replacement Sets
Change the lock between every tenancy u2014 security is non-negotiable.
- The complete 6-item DIY checklist for the 1F entryway renovation
- A strategic task order for finishing the “face of the home”
- Key points for the lock replacement, full wallpaper re-hang, and wide-format switch upgrade
- Why motion-sensor lighting and foot-level night lights are worth the effort
Hi, it’s DIY Dad! Time to tackle the 1F entryway renovation. The entryway is the face of the home u2014 I want a clean, smart finish.
1F Entryway u2014 Full Renovation Checklist (6 Items)
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Entryway Flooring & Tile Kits
Entryway flooring takes the most wear u2014 invest in durable material.
- 1. Lock replacement u2014 Difficulty: medium | Time: ~30 min
- 2. Full wallpaper replacement u2014 Difficulty: high | Time: half a day
- 3. Swap switch panels for wide-format style u2014 Difficulty: medium (Type-2 license required) | Time: ~30 min
- 4. Swap outlet plates for foot-light type u2014 Difficulty: medium (Type-2 license required) | Time: ~30 min
- 5. Replace lighting with motion-sensor type u2014 Difficulty: easy | Time: ~15 min
- 6. Mount a stylish mirror u2014 Difficulty: medium | Time: ~30 min
Notes on Each Task
u2460 Lock Replacement (Security Upgrade)
The first line of defense. Swapping the existing disc-cylinder lock for a dimple-key cylinder dramatically improves pick resistance. Details in a separate article.
u2461 Full Wallpaper Replacement
The entryway is the first thing visitors see. I’ll use a white pre-pasted wallpaper for a bright finish. Because it takes wear from shoes, bags, and hands, a stain-resistant type is recommended.
u2462 Wide-Format Switch Panels
Replacing the old narrow switches with modern wide-format panels (Panasonic Cosmo series, etc.) creates a unified look across the whole property and makes them easier to press. A Type-2 Electrical Work License is required.
u26a0ufe0f Electrical work requires a licensed professional. Unlicensed work violates the Electrical Contractors Act (fine up to u00a5300,000). Either get licensed yourself or hire a qualified electrician for this task.
u2463 Foot-Light Outlet Plates
Adding a foot-level night light function to the outlet location. It illuminates the floor automatically at night u2014 great for children and guests. Look for:
- Light/dark sensor (lights up only at night u2014 saves electricity)
- Motion sensor option (lights up when someone approaches)
- LED type (no bulb replacement needed, 10+ year lifespan)
- Color: warm white for a hotel feel, cool white for practical use
u2464 Motion-Sensor Lighting
Replace the entryway light with a motion-sensor LED u2014 no more fumbling for switches, lower electricity bills. Choose a version that requires no electrical work (screw-in bulb type).
- Screw-in bulb type (fits existing socket): easiest, no license needed, u00a51,000u2013u00a53,000
- Ceiling socket type (hook ceiling socket): moderate, no license needed, u00a53,000u2013u00a58,000
- Integrated fixture with built-in sensor: harder, license required, u00a55,000u2013u00a515,000
u2465 Stylish Mirror
I’ll be mounting a mirror received as a housewarming gift. A mirror in the entryway is essential for a quick appearance check before heading out u2014 and a large-ish mirror makes the space feel bigger.
Watch-outs for mirror installation:
- Confirm stud locations before fastening
- Heavy mirrors on bare drywall risk falling u2014 use drywall anchors
- Add anti-earthquake gel pads for seismic safety
Smart Task Order
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Video Doorbells & Intercoms
A video intercom upgrades security and tenant confidence u2014 easy DIY install.
For an efficient entryway renovation, work in this sequence:
- Clean (remove dust from baseboards, ceiling)
- Lock replacement (standalone task u2014 fine to do first)
- Remove switches and outlets (electrician)
- Wallpaper replacement (walls are now clear)
- Reinstall switches and outlets (after wallpaper is done)
- Lighting swap (standalone task)
- Mount mirror (final finishing touch)
The wallpaper step requires all switch panels to be off the wall first. If you’re hiring an electrician, plan for two site visits u2014 or schedule both removal and reinstallation in a single appointment.
Summary
- 6 total items: lock, wallpaper, switches, outlets, lighting, mirror
- 2 items require an electrical license: switches and outlets
- Order matters u2014 clean u2192 lock u2192 remove electrics u2192 wallpaper u2192 reinstall electrics u2192 lighting u2192 mirror
- Foot lights and motion sensors improve safety and convenience for tenants
- The entryway is the face of the home u2014 take it seriously
That’s all for today. Next time we dive into the actual work!
ud83dudcda Entryway Renovation Series u2014 1 of 10
u2190 (first article) u00b7 Series Index u00b7 Entryway Renovation Vol.2: Key Lock Replacement u2192
DIY Renovation Quote Review Manual
How to read, compare, and negotiate contractor quotes. This manual saved me u00a5800,000 on a single renovation project.
ud83cudfe0 More from DIY Father
15 years of landlord experience u00b7 3 apartment buildings u00b7 DIY renovations that saved millions of yen. Browse all articles at diytosan.com







