How to Install a Deadbolt Lock
Making sure you have secure windows and doors is the most basic part of home security. A burglar who takes one look at your flimsy 30-year old lock and knows he can kick the door in probably won’t hesitate to do just that. Installing new door locks, and a deadbolt, can go a long ways toward securing your home.
When you go shopping for a deadbolt at the hardware store, measure the thickness of your door to make sure the lock you buy fits. You can adjust some locks to compensate for different door thicknesses, but some don’t allow for adjustment, so make sure you buy one that will fit.
The deadbolt should come with instructions, but here is a basic run-through to help:
Steps for installing a standard deadbolt lock:
1) The deadbolt should come with a template to help you accurately locate where to bore the holes in your door.
2) Use the template to drill the main hole; make sure all holes are absolutely square with the door (use a combination square to achieve this).
3) Bore a second hole in the edge of the door for the bolt assembly. Have someone hold the door to keep it steady while you are drilling, so the cut is true.
4) Insert the deadbolt, use a pencil to mark the outline of the face plate, and then chisel out a recess so the plate can sit flush.
5) Mark and cut a mortise for the strike plate. Bore the hole to accommodate the bolt when it’s engaged.
If you need pictures or more help, you might check out Better Homes and Gardens’ Home Security: Your Guide to Protecting Your Family as it has a section on installing different kinds of door and window locks.