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Deadbolt Installation Guide

mediumHome Repair1 hr

Safety Warnings

  • Use caution when drilling to avoid damaging the door structure
  • Be aware that double-cylinder deadbolts can be dangerous during fires or emergencies as they require a key to exit the home

Tools Needed

Phillips #2 — screwdriver
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hole saw — 2⅛-inch
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spade bit — 1-inch
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chisel — 1-inch
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tape measure — standard
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speed square — standard
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Materials

deadbolt lock kit — single or double cylinder(1)
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mounting screws — provided with kit(1 set)
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pencil — standard(1)
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Steps

1
Determine the installation location, typically 6 or 12 inches above the existing key lock. Use a tape measure and speed square to mark a straight line across the edge and sides of the door.
Existing lock Speed square Alignment line Mark line Across door Mark a level line 6-12 inches above the existing lock.
2
Mount the manufacturer's template to the door. Mark the cylinder hole center point (usually 2⅜ or 2¾ inches from the edge) and the midpoint on the door's edge.
Door face Template Door edge Mark center with pencil Position the template and mark the precise center for drilling.
3
Drill the cylinder hole using the 2⅛-inch hole saw. Drill about an inch deep from one side, then finish drilling through from the opposite side to ensure a clean hole. Drill the 1-inch hole through the edge of the door until it meets the cylinder hole.
Door face Hole saw Drill partially Stop depth Drill halfway through the door, then finish from the opposite side for a clean cut.
4
Trace the faceplate onto the door's edge and use a 1-inch chisel to create a ⅛-inch-deep mortise. Slide the bolt through the latch hole with the faceplate flush against the door and secure it with mounting screws.
Faceplate Mortise Deadbolt Slide into place Insert bolt into mortised edge and secure faceplate with screws.
5
Insert the lock cylinder through the face of the door, ensuring the tailpiece fits through the corresponding holes on the bolt. Secure the cylinder with screws on both the interior and exterior sides.
Bolt Cylinder Tailpiece Insert firmly Align with bolt Align the tailpiece with the bolt holes and slide the cylinder into the door.
6
Test the lock by activating the bolt, then mark the end of the bolt with a felt-tip pen or crayon. Close the door and press the bolt hard against the jamb to transfer the mark.
Deadbolt Door jamb Door face Press firmly Press the extended bolt against the jamb to transfer the mark.
7
Drill a hole in the door jamb using the 1-inch spade bit. Trace the strike plate, chisel a ⅛-inch-deep mortise, and secure the strike plate flush with the jamb using screws.
Door jamb Strike plate Spade bit Press flush Install strike plate into the drilled jamb mortise.
8
Test the door functionality by locking and unlocking the mechanism several times. If the lock is not functioning smoothly, a professional locksmith can be called for assistance.

Pro Tips

  • Measure carefully to avoid drilling holes in the wrong spot and ruining the door.
  • Always defer to the specific measurements and instructions provided on the manufacturer's template.

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