How To Install A Dead Bolt Door Lock

To cut through a steel door make sure you get a bimetal hole saw set.

How to install a dead bolt door lock.

Then remove the deadbolt. Drill edge hole with spade bit. Drill face hole using hole saw. 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.

Install the deadbolt lock about 44 inches above the bottom of the door. Position paper template on door edge. Take off the lock and thumb turn assembly. Drill from both sides to prevent splintering.

Smear a little lipstick on the end of the deadbolt close the door and turn the lock. Insert deadbolt into edge hole and mark its outline. Screw deadbolt to edge of door. When you open the door the position of the bolt will be evident on the jamb.

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. Mark center holes on face and edge. Remove all screws that attach the existing deadbolt to the door. 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.

The deadbolt should be at least 6 above your doorknob. Chisel out mortise for deadbolt. Choose a position on the door for the lock. That s about average for a good deadbolt and a hole saw set.

Most deadbolt lock manufacturers provide a template to help you install the lock. Updating your front door can be as simple as adding a fresh coat of paint and a new set of hardware. 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.