How To Install A Deadbolt Door Lock
Posted on: 25 October 2022
Deadbolt door locks are one of the most effective ways to secure your home. These locks are very difficult to pick, so you can be assured of extra security.
While they can be a little tricky to install, it's well worth taking the time to do it right. Here are the main steps involved in installing a deadbolt door lock.
Drill the Appropriate Size Hole in the Door
Deadbolt locks have a bolt that extends into the door frame, so you'll need to drill a hole in the door that is big enough to accommodate this bolt. They often require a larger hole than doorknob locks, so you'll need to use a power drill to create the hole.
To determine the appropriate size of the hole, simply measure the diameter of the bolt and add a few inches for clearance. Measure twice before you drill to avoid making a wrong-sized hole. If the hole is too big, the deadbolt won't fit properly; if it's too small, you'll have to start over.
Once you've drilled the hole for the deadbolt, you'll need to chisel out a shallow hole for the strike plate. This is the metal plate that the deadbolt bolt fits into when the door is closed.
Use a hammer and chisel to create a hole that is deep and wide enough for the strike plate. Be sure to chisel away any wood splinters so that the strike plate will fit flush against the door.
Install the Deadbolt Bolt and Strike Plate
With the latch in place, you can now install the deadbolt bolt. This is the part of the lock that actually extends into the door frame. First, insert the deadbolt bolt into the hole you drilled in the door.
On the other side of the door, there will be a small metal tab that fits into a slot on the back of the latch. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws on either side of the latch. Be careful not to over-tighten these screws, as this can strip the holes and make it difficult to remove the latch later on.
Now, you'll need to install the strike plate. This is the metal plate that the deadbolt bolt fits into when the door is closed. The strike plate will have holes that line up with the screws on the deadbolt. Use a screwdriver to attach the strike plate to the door frame. Be sure to use long screws that go all the way into the studs in the door frame for extra security.
After you complete these steps, your deadbolt door lock should be fully installed and operational. Test the deadbolt to make sure it's working properly to avoid surprises later on.
If you have any trouble during the installation process, don't hesitate to call a professional locksmith for assistance. They can help you troubleshoot the problem and install your deadbolt door lock properly. Reach out to a service like Mr. Lock to find out more.
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