Lock Installation: How to Install a Deadbolt

21 May

Lock Installation: How to Install a Deadbolt

It is estimated that about 60 percent of burglaries are linked to forced entry. That means the burglars would break in easily into homes with a regular spring-loaded lock. Apparently, a deadbolt provides better protection than its contemporaries and it will be difficult for the criminals to easily break into homes with deadbolts installed on their front doors.

For the deadbolt to function correctly, you must ensure that the installation is done properly. We recommend you call a dependable locksmith for deadbolt installation because the steel bolt must fully extend into the socket on the doorjamb with a metal strike in place.

If you have the tools and understand the procedure, you can opt for the DIY option. Though installing deadbolts could be trickier, you can get a head start by following the procedure in this step-by-step guide.

How to Install a Deadbolt

Here are steps to help you install a deadbolt lock on your door.

Tools needed

  • A Hole Saw
  • 7/8" spade drill
  • Tape
  • Wood chisel
  • Screwdrivers and matching screws

Step 1

Determine the Type of Deadbolt

Decide on the type of deadbolt to install - Single-cylinder deadbolts (keyed on one side) or Double-cylinder deadbolts (keyed on two sides). Evaluate the door and prepare to mark it out. You can install it on wood, fiberglass, or steel doors.

Step 2

Mark Appropriately

Check out the deadbolt manuals for proper marking. Then mark the door jamb (the side piece of the door frame). Draw a horizontal line 6 to 12 inches above the doorknob or lever on the interior and the inside. Ensure that the lines match each other.

We recommend you use a paper template. Secure it on the door using tape and mark out holes with a pencil. This will help you to avoid mistakes during drilling.

Step 3

Drilling

After marking, use a 2-1/8-inch Hole saw to drill the hole. Do not forget to hold the jig to the door edge with the faceplate screws. Your drilling should be done bit by bit. Begin by drilling halfway through the external part of the door. Afterward, drill through the other side.

Step 4

Select a Faceplate

No issues if you are installing the deadbolt on a new door. You will have to match the old faceplate if it is on a door that had a deadbolt. As a rule of thumb, you must remove the old faceplate before replacing it with the new one.

Step 5

Prepare the Jamb

The installation kit or paper template will be very useful here. Use the installation kit and pencil to mark the jamb, then drill two overlapping holes.

Furthermore, you need to use the chisel to clear any remaining material in the door jamb deadbolt hole. 

Step 6

Install the deadbolt

Finish the installation by inserting the box in the hole and tightening it with screws. Secure the strike plate with screws and then check if everything is working smoothly.

Consult a Locksmith to Fasten the Process

With the right tools and knowledge, deadbolt installation is not complicated. However, homeowners who are not technically savvy should contact a professional locksmith. At A&A Aventura Pro Locksmith, we offer lock replacement and installation services at an affordable rate. Give us a call and have the peace of mind that our locksmith will install your deadbolt with a guarantee.

Testimonials
Customer Reviews

I needed a spare key cut and programmed.  I was not in a rush but was happy when they still came the same day.  Reuben called me when he was on his way, so I didn't feel like I was…

Michael Cunningham

I got locked out of my car, the worse scenario ever especially with 3 kids on the road. I was terrified...A&A Pro Locksmith turn around was so fast, they came in few minutes opened my car, very courteous and professional. Took…

Jessica White

Locked myself out of the house. Called about 4 different locksmith.  No answer or too far from our house. Finally got to A&A Aventura Pro Locksmith LLC. The guy came on time. Had everything he needed to unlock our front…

James Fletcher

Great service and products! Re-keying our new home was a quick and smooth process thanks to this locksmith. Great suggestions by the specialist on how to navigate between the house's various doors and locks and what solutions/combinations to select.

Alan Walker