How To Install A Dead Bolt Door Lock

Drill from both sides to prevent splintering.

How to install a dead bolt door lock.

How to install a deadbolt in 15 steps. Chisel out mortise for deadbolt. This project can easily be tackled in an afternoon and to help you plan for this project we re going to show you how easy it is to install a new deadbolt lock before we get started be sure your door is properly drilled and aligned with this door prep checklist. Choose a position on the door for the lock.

If you re using a door lock installation kit with a jig drill two 1 8 inch pilot holes for the screws on the door edge. Take off the lock and thumb turn assembly. Then remove the deadbolt. You ll have to adjust the position a bit if you have a combination storm door so as not to interfere with the storm doorknob or lock.

Insert deadbolt into edge hole and mark its outline. The deadbolt should be at least 6 above your doorknob. When you open the door the position of the bolt will be evident on the jamb. Drill edge hole with spade bit.

That s about average for a good deadbolt and a hole saw set. The template is designed to work with doors of different thicknesses and has reference points that may be marked on the door with an awl. Smear a little lipstick on the end of the deadbolt close the door and turn the lock. Drill face hole using hole saw.

Mark center holes on face and edge. If you re using a paper template use tape to secure it to the door and. Most deadbolt lock manufacturers provide a template to help you install the lock. Remove all screws that attach the existing deadbolt to the door.

Calling a locksmith out for this how to install a deadbolt lock job will cost 150 or more but you can install a heavy duty deadbolt yourself in less than an hour for a third of the price. Install the deadbolt lock about 44 inches above the bottom of the door. To cut through a steel door make sure you get a bimetal hole saw set.