Deadbolt Replacement – Things to Keep in Mind
If your deadbolt has broken or is no longer working correctly, consider replacing it. But before you take the plunge, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, decide what you want to get out of the replacement lock. For example, do you want a keypad or smart deadbolt?
Getting Started
Deadbolts are an important part of your home’s security. But they also get damaged and worn out over time. When this happens, replacing your deadbolt may be the best option for you and your family.
Replacing a deadbolt is an easy and inexpensive project that can be done by almost anyone, even a novice DIYer. You just need a little knowledge of how to install the lock, as well as some basic tools.
Before beginning, you need to measure your door and make sure the deadbolt you purchase will fit properly. If you’re not careful, the hole for your new deadbolt could be drilled into the wrong place, ruining your door in the process.
If you aren’t sure how to replace your deadbolt, a professional locksmith may be able to help you. They will be able to tell you if it’s best to repair or replace your lock, and they can provide an estimate of the cost of parts and labor.
Measure Your Door
Measuring your door is an essential part of deciding on the type of deadbolt you want to install. You'll need to make sure that it is square, and level and that the backset (the distance between the center of a drilled hole for the lock and the edge of the door) matches up.
Start by taking three measurements inside the frame – top, middle, and bottom. Use the largest of these as your measurement.
Depending on your door installation and location, you may need to take other measurements as well. You should also be aware of the “handling” of your door – this refers to which way it swings on its hinges, so you can choose the correct handles or locks accordingly.
To measure the thickness of your existing door, you'll need to remove the trim around one side of the jamb or frame. Then, you can measure the width of the jamb from the top to the bottom. It's important to record this thickness, as it's a good indicator of the overall size of your door.
Select a Deadbolt
Choosing the right deadbolt is the first step in improving your home's security. There are many different options to choose from, so it's important to take your needs and your environment into account.
Single-cylinder deadbolts operate with a simple turn of the knob, making them easy to unlock and lock in a hurry without fumbling with keys. These locks are also favored by people who have arthritis or other conditions that make it hard to operate traditional locks.
Double-cylinder deadbolts require a key on both sides to lock and unlock, but they offer more security than single-cylinder styles. This makes them ideal for bedrooms and other areas of your home where exiting during an emergency may present a challenge.
In addition, strike plates can strengthen your deadbolt against kick-ins. They redirect the impact from a kick-in attempt and disperse it into your door, reducing the chance that your deadbolt will rip through your frame.
Install the Deadbolt
A deadbolt replaces the lock on your door and can help prevent break-ins by deterring would-be robbers. Replacing your old deadbolt with a new one can be a relatively easy project, and it’s a great way to boost your home’s security.
Start by marking the deadbolt’s location on your door with a pencil, typically about 6 or 12 inches above your existing doorknob. Most manufacturers will include a template along with your new deadbolt set.
Next, secure the backset on the template and center it with the horizontal line you drew earlier. This will help you bore the holes for your deadbolt assembly.
Using a hole saw and power drill, start at the interior side of your door and bore through to the edge. Then, move to the exterior side and bore until you reach a larger bored hole for the deadbolt latch assembly. Now, you’re ready to install the strike plate and bolt. After that, you can finish aligning the front and back plates on your door.
If your deadbolt has broken or is no longer working correctly, consider replacing it. But before you take the plunge, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, decide what you want to get out of the replacement lock. For example, do you want a keypad or smart deadbolt? Getting Started Deadbolts are…