How To Install A Deadbolt

You’ll need to make sure you have an electric drill with a hole saw and spade bits, a combination square, a tape measure, a chisel, screwdrivers, and a pencil. The deadbolt lock set includes a template to help you with measurements.It is important to use the correct size drill bits specified in the lock set instructions however; most standard deadbolts require a 2 and an eighth inch hole saw for the lock bodies and a 1 inch spade bit to assemble the sliding bolt.

To start the process to install a deadbolt, you need to start out with measuring and marking at least six inches above the center of the existing door handle. Next place the combination square on the edge of the door and draw a perpendicular line through your first mark and a few inches past it. Continue this line around the door edge and across the back of the door, finishing in the same location as the line on the front side of the door. Next wrap the paper template provided with the lock set around the edge of the door, making sure the templates centerline is aligned with the marks you made on the door.

Position the bolt assembly in this hole and trace around the outside of its faceplate with a pencil. Remove the assembly and chisel out a hole deep enough that the faceplate sits flush with the door edge. Begin by cutting around the outline of the faceplate and then gradually clean out the hole Tapping the chisel with a mallet or hammer will give you more control over the chisel. You’ll need to cut the hole about ¼ inch deep. Once the faceplate fits flush, drill ? inch pilot holes for the screws and then secure the bolt assembly to the door. Lastly, fit the outside lock body in place on the outside of the door and secure the inside lock body using the provided screws. The screws always go on the inside lock body so they can’t be undone from the outside.

This part is just one part of the process to install a deadbolt. You start out with measuring the distance from the back of the door to the outer edge of the bolt assembly’s faceplate. Write this measurement down, you will need it to know where the strike plate is. Next, close the door and transfer the centerline marked on the door onto the door jamb. Use the square to continue this line across the face of the door jamb to the door stop.

When you have a deadbolt you want to install, it is important to know how to install a deadbolt. With following the above directions, you’ll be able to make sure your deadbolt is installed correctly and is securely placed.