Depending on the type of door lock that you will install, the manufacturer’s instructions may vary. It may also depend on whether or not you are changing old door locks or installing a new door lock.
Before starting, make sure you have all the tools and materials that you will need.
Here is a list of tools that may come in handy when installing a door lock:
- Screwdriver
- Drill
- Door knob or lever
- Deadbolt
- Hole saw – this is needed when the new door doesn’t have holes for the knob and lock
- Tape measure
- Level
- Pencil
- Chisel – you can use this to trim the edges of the door for a perfect fit
- Hammer
- If you are installing a new door, you will also need the following:
- A new strike plate
- Screws
- Hinges
- A drill bit for wood
- Saw
- Shims
Now that everything is ready, let’s begin installing your door lock.
1. Door Measurement
The first thing you need to do is measure the door. You will need to know the thickness of the door as well as the width. Most doors are 1-3/4” thick and 6’8” wide, but it is best to measure just to be sure.
Begin by measuring the door from top to bottom and from side to side. This will give you an idea of what size hole you will need to drill for the knob or lever.
2. Marking the Door
Once you have the measurements of the door, you will need to mark where the hole for the knob or lever will go. For a standard door, the hole should be 2-1/8” from the edge of the door and 3-3/4” up from the bottom.
To make sure that the knob or lever is level, use a tape measure to find the centre of the door. Then, use a level to draw a straight line across the door. This will be your starting point.
From the centre of the door, use a tape measure to find the 2-1/8” mark. This is where you will make your first hole.
3. Drilling the Hole
If you are installing a new door, you will need to use a hole saw to drill a hole for the knob or lever. If you are replacing an existing knob or lever, you will need to remove the old one first. And if the old hole is not big enough, you may need to drill more to adjust its size.
4. Installing the New Door Knob
Once the hole has been drilled, it is time to install the new door knob or lever. Start by inserting the spindle. This is the long metal rod that should go through the hole.
On the other side of the door, insert the rosette with screws. This, on the other hand, is the circular piece that surrounds the spindle. Then, attach the knob or lever to the spindle.
5. Installing the Strike Plate
This is the metal plate that is attached to the door frame. It is what the latch on the door knob or lever hits when the door is closed.
To install the strike plate, first, hold it in place and mark where the screws will go. Then, drill pilot holes for the screws. Once the pilot holes are in place, screw in the strike plate.
6. Installing the Deadbolt
What is a deadbolt?
It is what will make your door lock more secure. It is a separate locking mechanism that is usually installed above the knob or lever.
To install the deadbolt, start by holding it in place and marking where the hole will go. Then, use a hole saw to drill the hole.
Once the hole has been drilled, insert the deadbolt and screw it in place.
7. Testing the Lock
Before you consider the job done, it is important to test the lock. Close the door and make sure that the knob or lever works. Then, lock the deadbolt and make sure that it is secure.
8. Making Adjustments
If the door is not closing properly or if the knob or lever is hard to turn, you may need to make some adjustments. Start by removing the knob or lever and loosening the screws on the rosette. Then, try again.
If the door is still not closing properly, you may need to use shims. Shims are thin pieces of wood or metal that are used to fill in gaps. By placing shims between the door and the frame, you can make adjustments to the fit.
That’s 8 easy-to-follow steps in installing your door lock. If you are installing a new door, you will also need to install the hinges. It is best to do this before you install the door knob or lever.
Here are 4 easy steps in installing your new door:
- Start by holding the hinge in place on the door. Use a pencil to mark the holes.
- Remove the hinge and drill pilot holes for the screws.
- Replace the hinge and use screws to secure it in place. Repeat this process for the other hinge.
- Once the hinges are in place, you can install the door knob or lever following the instructions above.
If you are unsure about installing your door lock, call a professional today… Contact Allcoast Locks for excellent lock installation services!
