Door lock installation is not an easy process. It requires proper measurements and an installation process. If you are searching for a proper guideline for lock installation, then this blog is for you. In this discussion, we will provide you with a full step by step guideline for lock installation and the process to check whether the door lock is installed properly or not. We will also tell you that if you get stuck in a problem, then get the prohandymannow service.

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Beginner’s Guide to Door Lock Installation for Homeowners

Install a Lock on the Door | How to Install a Door Lock and Deadbolt | Lock Installation Service

Having a trustworthy door lock is the first step towards protecting your house – literally. Installing a new lock is one of the most crucial things you can do, regardless of whether you’ve upgraded your doors, moved into a new home, or just want more security. Now the question will arise: how to install a door lock? Or there are also many similar questions, like how to install a door lock and a deadbolt? Don’t worry, with the correct equipment and guidance, you can frequently do tasks yourself without the need for a locksmith or handyman service.

We will give you a comprehensive detail about how to install a standard lock in a straightforward, step-by-step manner. We’ll also go over common tools, various lock types, and when it makes sense to hire a door lock installer.

Why Install a New Lock?

Lock installation is the first defense line for your homes, offices, or buildings. Locks provide us with safety, comfort, and privacy. Here are some of the most important things that will tell us why we need to install a new lock. 

• Security upgrade: It’s a good idea to replace worn locks with more robust options, like deadbolt locks, as they are more difficult to tamper with. So, it will provide stronger safety.
• New residence: You never know who might have the old keys when you move to a new residence. Therefore, installing a new lock will increase your sense of security.
• Lost keys: If you lose your old key, then there will be a threat to security, and you and your family will not be satisfied with safety.  So by installing a new lock, you can rest easy knowing you have a new lock. Your sense of security can be greatly increased by knowing that your house is secured with the newest locking technology.
• Modern upgrades: As in the modern world, electronic locks and smart locks installation are keyless options that some homeowners prefer.

Equipment and Supplies You’ll require

Start by assembling a simple door lock installation kit, which typically consists of drill bits, templates, and instructions. Additionally, you’ll need:

• Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
• Drill
• Chisel and hammer
• Chisel 
• Level 
• Tape measure
• Pencil

Steps to install the DoorLock

Step 1: Choose the Right Lock

Now we have to choose the right lock. It is a really important step in lock installation. The lock type will depend on what type of door we use or which types of locks we want for our home or office’s safety. There are numerous kinds of locks available. We will discuss each of them, and after reading this, you will be able to know which type of lock you have to choose.

• Residential doors frequently have cylindrical locks, which have a handle or knob with an integrated locking mechanism. Installing them is simple.
• Older homes and commercial settings are where mortise locks are most frequently found. robust and long-lasting.
• Deadbolt installation offers the highest level of security and is frequently combined with cylindrical locks. For external doors, they work best.
• Installing smart locks offers keyless entry via smartphones, keypads, and biometric sensors, representing the newest advancements in home security.

Step 2: Remove the Old Lock

In case you are installing a new lock and removing the older one. Follow these steps to remove your older lock safely and easily.

1. Unscrew and remove the knob or handle.
2. Take out the latch from the edge of the door.
3. Remove the strike plate from the door frame.

If this is a fresh door, you’ll need to install a lock on the door by drilling new holes. For drilling the holes you should take the measurements and make sure that these measurements are accurate. By having an accurate measurement, you will install the new lock easily.

Step 3: Prepare the Door

Before installing a lock, you have to prepare the door for installation. Here are some steps to prepare your door for lock installation.

• Use your door lock installation tools to mark and drill the required holes carefully.
• Drill the marks carefully and drill the necessary holes using your door lock installation tools.
• At the indicated height, drill the knob or cylinder’s main hole.
• Drill a smaller hole in the door’s edge for the latch or bolt.
• Be well-prepared to avoid mistakes and ensure a smooth installation.
• Measure the door’s thickness (1⅜ to 1¾ inches) to confirm lock compatibility.
• To ensure that the strike plate and latch are in the proper positions, check to see if the door is swinging left or right.
• To guarantee correct placement, check the hole size and backset (2⅜ or 2¾ inches).
• To improve accuracy, always use the template if one comes with the lock kit.
• When drilling a new hole, wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from wood chips.
• Verify all markings one last time before drilling because incorrect positioning can result in damage.

Step 4: Install the Latch

After preparing the door, the next step is installing the latch. Here are the steps to follow for latch installation:

• Slide the latch into the door’s side opening.
• Make sure the slanted edge is facing the direction the door closes for smooth operation.
• Make sure the door edge and the latch are flush. If it protrudes, carefully carve a shallow recess.
• Make sure the latch is correctly aligned to hold it in place.
• Make sure to evenly tighten the screws that come with it.
• Turn the handle or knob to ensure the latch moves freely.

Step 5: Lock installing mechanism

Here are the main steps to follow for door installation:

1. Slide the exterior part with the keyhole into the latch opening.
2. Attach the interior part.
3. Screw both sides together tightly.
4. If the new lock requires a larger hole, utilize a drill and chisel to create the necessary area.

Make sure to follow these steps accurately to avoid any misalignment in your lock installation process. If you’re installing a door handle with a lock, this step is similar… just align the handle instead of a knob.

Step 6: Installing the Strike Plate

After installing the lock in the door, our next step is installing the strike plate on the door frame. It will ensure  that the latch or deadbolt securely fits into place

• The strike plate should be positioned where the door frame and deadbolt or latch meet.
• Mark the screw holes with a pencil to guarantee accurate placement.
• Drill small pilot holes where indicated to make screwing easier.
• Screw the strike plate firmly into the frame after reinstalling it.
• For added security, use longer screws (about 3 inches) that anchor deeply into the wall stud and frame.
• Make sure the latch or deadbolt slides smoothly into the strike plate when the door closes.

Step 7: Check the Lock

Now we have to perform our last step to check if there is any problem with our lock or if it is working appropriately. Perform these steps to check your lock functionality. 

• Close the door and check that everything is operating as it should.
• This is especially important if you’re learning how to install a door lock and deadbolt together because they must line up properly.
• To verify the alignment, turn the key and open the door.
• Check that the lock operates smoothly and make any necessary adjustments.
• If required, check that the key turns smoothly and the lock engages properly.
• Check both sides of your door to see if it has a double-cylinder lock.

Particular Situations: Electronic and Smart Locks

• Smart lock installation: A keypad setup and batteries are needed for many models. Pay close attention to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Electronic lock installation:  It may require wiring, particularly if it’s part of a security system.

These advanced systems provide convenience but can be tricky, so sometimes hiring a door lock installer near me is the safest choice.

Additional Advice for a Successful Installation

• Verify alignment: Your door may sag if the lock and strike plate are not in line. If required, tighten the hinges.
• Employ longer screws: For external doors, use 3-inch screws instead of the short ones that are included with your strike plate. Intruders will find it much more difficult to kick in the door as a result.
• Don’t hurry: Take your time making sure everything is properly aligned and measured. Your house won’t be protected by a badly installed lock.
• Think about smart upgrades: You can also install a smart lock with a keypad or Bluetooth feature if you like convenience.e.

When to Call a Professional

Even though many homeowners are capable of installing locks simply, there are situations in which hiring a professional door lock installation service is the better option:

• If you need to repair a damaged door or frame.
• If you’re setting up sophisticated systems like smart locks or high-security deadbolt locks.
• If the lock doesn’t align properly, even after adjustments.
• If you’re switching to a keyless entry system that needs wiring or an advanced electronic lock installation.

If you get in situations like this, contact ProHandymanNow for assistance. For expert solutions, trust prohandymannow; your reliable partner for door lock installations, repairs, and upgrades. From traditional Cylindrical locks and Mortise locks to modern smart door lock installation, we deliver professional results every time.

Conclusion

The most important thing is to secure your home with the appropriate lock, regardless of whether you decide to do it yourself or hire a door lock installation service. When weighed against the peace of mind it provides, the cost of installing a door lock is minimal. At ProHandymanNow, we combine skill, fair door lock installation cost, precision, and care to protect what matters most—your home and family. Contact us now for more details!

Is electrical knowledge required for installing electronic door locks?

It is not always essential to have electrical knowledge. As many of the electrical doors are designed for straightforward DIY installation specially for residential use. However, some of the doors that are too advanced like using wifi or bluetooth don’t have this design and are more complex so you have to know the basics of electricity.

How do I eliminate an old door knob that doesn’t have visible screws?

Screw is always there. Take off the knob first. On the exterior side of the knob, there will be a latch. Push the latch in and the door handle out. And if the screws are not visible, then you have to locate a hidden release mechanism, a small in or tab. Press this while simultaneously pulling or twisting the knob to detach it.

What's the difference between a deadbolt and a cylindrical lock change?