If you’re a homeowner, chances are you’ll need to change a deadbolt lock at some point. Whether you’re moving into a new home, replacing a lost key, or simply upgrading your security, changing a deadbolt lock is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes.
In order to change a deadbolt lock, you will need a few tools, including a screwdriver, a drill, and a new deadbolt lock. Once you have your tools, you can follow these steps:
1. Remove the old deadbolt lock. To do this, you will need to remove the screws that are holding the lock in place. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the lock out of the door.
2. Install the new deadbolt lock. To do this, you will need to insert the new lock into the hole in the door. Once the lock is in place, you can secure it with the screws that came with the lock.
3. Test the new deadbolt lock. To do this, you can insert a key into the lock and turn it. The lock should function smoothly and easily.
Understanding the Deadbolt Mechanism
A deadbolt lock is a type of door lock that uses a deadbolt, a solid metal bolt that extends into a strike plate on the door frame. Deadbolts provide a high level of security because they cannot be opened by simply picking the lock or using a credit card to shim the door open. Instead, a deadbolt can only be opened by turning the key or using a special tool to retract the bolt.
Deadbolts come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can be installed on both inward-swinging and outward-swinging doors. The most common type of deadbolt is the single-cylinder deadbolt, which requires a key to be inserted into the lock on the outside of the door and a thumb turn to be used on the inside of the door.
Deadbolts can also be purchased with multiple cylinders. This type of deadbolt requires a key to be inserted into the lock on both the outside and the inside of the door. This type of deadbolt is more secure than a single-cylinder deadbolt, but it is also less convenient to use.
Here is a table that summarizes the different types of deadbolts:
| Type of Deadbolt | Description |
|---|---|
| Single-cylinder deadbolt | Requires a key to be inserted into the lock on the outside of the door and a thumb turn to be used on the inside of the door. |
| Double-cylinder deadbolt | Requires a key to be inserted into the lock on both the outside and the inside of the door. |
Gathering Necessary Tools
Before embarking on the deadbolt lock replacement process, it is crucial to gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth and efficient task. The essential items required include:
Screwdriver Set:
A comprehensive set of screwdrivers, including both Phillips and flathead types, is indispensable for loosening and tightening screws during the lock removal and installation process.
Measuring Tape or Ruler:
A measuring tape or ruler is utilized to determine the correct placement and height of the new deadbolt lock.
Drill or Driver:
A drill or driver may be necessary to create pilot holes or tighten screws, especially in cases where the door or frame requires additional preparation.
Chisel:
A chisel is employed to create a mortise in the door frame for the deadbolt latch to fit into.
Hammer:
A hammer is used to drive the chisel and assist with the lock installation process.
Safety Glasses:
Safety glasses protect the eyes from flying debris and potential hazards during the drilling or chiseling operations.
Pencil or Marker:
A pencil or marker is utilized to mark the lock’s position and any necessary adjustments on the door or frame.
Extra Screws or Fasteners:
Additional screws or fasteners may be required if the existing ones are damaged or inadequate.
Drill Bits:
Drill bits of appropriate sizes are necessary for creating pilot holes and installing the deadbolt.
Mortise Template:
A mortise template, if available, can simplify the process of creating a precise mortise for the deadbolt latch.
Removing the Old Deadbolt
Before you can install a new deadbolt lock, you need to remove the old one. Here are the steps on how to do it:
1. Gather your tools.
You will need a screwdriver, a drill, and a hammer.
2. Remove the strike plate.
The strike plate is the metal plate that is attached to the door frame and that the deadbolt latch strikes against when the door is closed. To remove the strike plate, simply unscrew the screws that are holding it in place.
3. Remove the deadbolt assembly.
The deadbolt assembly is the part of the lock that contains the deadbolt latch. To remove the deadbolt assembly, you will need to:
- Unscrew the screws that are holding the deadbolt assembly in place.
- Pull the deadbolt assembly out of the door.
- Disconnect the wires that are connected to the deadbolt assembly.
Once you have removed the deadbolt assembly, you can install the new deadbolt lock.
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Screwdriver | Used to unscrew the screws that are holding the strike plate and deadbolt assembly in place. |
| Drill | Used to drill a hole for the new deadbolt latch. |
| Hammer | Used to drive the new deadbolt latch into place. |
Prepping the Door for the New Lock
1. Measure the Backset
Measure the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hole for the lock. This distance will need to match the backset of the new lock.
2. Determine the Lockset Type
Determine whether your door has a single-cylinder lockset, which has a keyhole on only one side, or a double-cylinder lockset, which has keyholes on both sides.
3. Check the Lock Hole Size
Measure the width and height of the lock hole. The new lock should fit within these dimensions.
4. Assess the Strike Plate and Jamb
a) Examine the strike plate on the door frame. It should be positioned directly across from the lock bolt. If it is not aligned, you may need to adjust the strike plate or chisel it into the door frame to ensure proper latching.
b) Check the jamb for any obstructions, such as protruding nails or screws. These obstructions can interfere with the installation of the new lock. Remove or adjust any obstructions as necessary.
c) Inspect the door for any sagging or warping. This can affect the alignment of the lock and strike plate. If the door is not sitting flush, you may need to adjust it before installing the new lock.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chisel | Chisel out the strike plate or door jamb if necessary |
| Hammer | Drive in nails or screws |
| Drill | Drill holes for the new lock if necessary |
| Screwdriver | Tighten screws on the new lock |
Installing the New Deadbolt Cylinder
Inserting the new cylinder is a simple process, but it requires precision to ensure proper alignment and functionality. Here is a step-by-step guide:
1. Align the Cylinder and Insert the Key: Hold the new cylinder upright and align it with the corresponding holes in the lock body and frame. Insert the key into the cylinder and turn it slightly to engage the locking mechanism.
2. Screw in the Cylinder: Keeping the key turned and the cylinder aligned, carefully screw in the cylinder by hand until it is snug. Avoid overtightening, as this can damage the cylinder or lock body.
3. Remove the Key: Once the cylinder is screwed in place, remove the key. The lock should now be fully operational with the new cylinder.
4. Replace the Thumb Turn: If your deadbolt has a thumb turn on the interior side, it may need to be replaced. Remove the old thumb turn by unscrewing it, and screw in the new one onto the spindle of the new cylinder.
5. Test the Lock: Thoroughly test the lock to ensure it is functioning correctly. Insert the key and turn it back and forth, both with and without the deadbolt engaged. The lock should operate smoothly and securely.
6. Lubricate the Lock: If the lock is not moving smoothly, apply a small amount of graphite powder or dry lubricant to the keyway and cylinder. This will help reduce friction and improve performance.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Align cylinder and insert key. |
| 2 | Screw in cylinder. |
| 3 | Remove key. |
| 4 | Replace thumb turn (if necessary). |
| 5 | Test lock and lubricate if needed. |
Attaching the Deadbolt Housing
After aligning the strike plate, it’s time to attach the deadbolt housing. This process may vary slightly depending on the specific model you have. However, here’s a general guide:
6. Insert the Deadbolt Housing into the Door
Take the deadbolt housing and align it carefully with the hole you drilled earlier. Make sure it’s oriented correctly so that the latch mechanism will engage with the strike plate when the lock is closed.
Once you’ve got the housing lined up, lift it slightly and place the mounting screws through the holes in the housing and into the door. Start by hand-tightening the screws, then use a screwdriver or drill to fully tighten them. Ensure that the housing is secure and doesn’t shift when you turn the key.
| Tip: |
|---|
| If you’re using a drill with a screwdriver bit, be mindful not to over-tighten the screws as you could damage the door or strip the screw threads. |
With the deadbolt housing securely attached, you’re almost done. Now you can test the lock by inserting the key and turning it. The latch should smoothly engage with the strike plate and the deadbolt should extend and retract properly.
Testing and Adjusting the Deadbolt
Once the deadbolt is installed, test it to ensure it locks and unlocks smoothly. If the bolt is not engaging properly, you may need to adjust it. Here’s how:
Step 1: Check the Strike Plate Alignment
Verify that the strike plate is aligned correctly. The bolt should latch securely into the strike plate when the door is closed. If it doesn’t, adjust the strike plate by loosening the screws and moving it slightly until the bolt fits snugly.
Step 2: Adjust the Bolt Throw
The bolt throw refers to the length of the bolt that extends into the strike plate. If the throw is too short, the bolt may not engage fully. Conversely, if the throw is too long, the bolt may jam when you attempt to lock it.
To adjust the bolt throw, locate the screw that controls it. Tightening the screw will shorten the throw, while loosening it will increase the throw. Make small adjustments and test the lock each time until you achieve the desired throw.
Step 3: Adjust the Latch Plate
The latch plate is the part of the deadbolt that catches the door strike when it’s closed. If the latch plate is not positioned correctly, the bolt may not engage with the strike plate. To adjust the latch plate, loosen the screws that hold it in place and move it slightly until the bolt latches securely.
Step 4: Lubricate the Mechanism
A well-lubricated deadbolt will operate smoothly and extend its lifespan. Apply a few drops of graphite lubricant to the moving parts, such as the bolt, strike plate, and latch plate. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as they can attract dirt and debris.
Step 5: Tighten the Screws
After making any adjustments, tighten all the screws to secure the deadbolt and its components. Ensure that the screws are not overtightened, as this can strip the threads and compromise the lock’s performance.
Step 6: Test the Deadbolt
Once all the adjustments are complete, test the deadbolt again to make sure it locks and unlocks properly. If the bolt is still not engaging smoothly, repeat the steps above until you achieve the desired performance.
Securing the Backplate
Once the latch has been inserted, it’s time to secure the backplate. This is the piece that will hold the lock in place on the door.
To do this, you’ll need to insert the screws that came with the lock into the corresponding holes on the backplate. Start by hand-tightening the screws until they’re snug. Then, use a screwdriver to fully tighten them.
Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as this can damage the backplate or the door. If you’re not sure how tight to tighten the screws, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and tighten them less rather than more.
Once the backplate is secure, you can insert the key into the lock and test it to make sure it works properly. The key should turn smoothly and the deadbolt should extend and retract without any issues.
If you encounter any problems, such as the key not turning smoothly or the deadbolt not extending or retracting properly, you may need to adjust the latch or the backplate.
Once you’re satisfied that the lock is working properly, you can reattach the strike plate to the door frame.
To do this, simply insert the screws that came with the lock into the corresponding holes on the strike plate. Start by hand-tightening the screws until they’re snug. Then, use a screwdriver to fully tighten them.
Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as this can damage the strike plate or the door frame. If you’re not sure how tight to tighten the screws, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and tighten them less rather than more.
Installing the Strike Plate
After the deadbolt lock is in place, it’s time to install the strike plate. The strike plate is the metal plate that the deadbolt latches into when the door is closed. It is important to install the strike plate correctly, as an improper installation can make it difficult to lock or unlock the door.
Positioning the Strike Plate
To position the strike plate, first close the door and insert the deadbolt into the hole in the door frame. Mark the location of the strike plate on the door frame with a pencil. Then, open the door and measure the distance from the edge of the door to the mark you made. This measurement will be the distance from the edge of the door frame to the center of the strike plate.
Installing the Strike Plate
Once you have the strike plate positioned, it’s time to install it. First, drill a pilot hole for the screws. Then, insert the screws into the pilot holes and tighten them until the strike plate is secure.
Tips for Installing the Strike Plate
- Make sure that the strike plate is installed flush with the door frame. If the strike plate is not flush, it can make it difficult to lock or unlock the door.
- Use the correct size screws for the strike plate. If the screws are too small, they will not be able to hold the strike plate securely. If the screws are too large, they can damage the door frame.
- Test the deadbolt to make sure that it latches into the strike plate correctly. If the deadbolt does not latch correctly, adjust the strike plate until it does.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a level to make sure that the strike plate is installed level. | This will help to ensure that the deadbolt latches into the strike plate correctly. |
| Caulk around the strike plate to weatherproof it. | This will help to prevent water from getting into the door frame and causing damage. |
Finishing Touches
Once the new deadbolt lock is installed, ensure it operates smoothly. Insert and remove the key, and check that the deadbolt extends and retracts successfully. For added security, apply a dab of lubricant to the keyhole and moving parts using a graphite pencil or lock lubricant.
Security Check
After completing the installation, conduct a thorough security check to verify the integrity of the lock and its surroundings.
Door Strength
Ensure the door is strong and thick enough to support the deadbolt lock effectively. A flimsy or thin door can compromise the security of the lock.
Strike Plate Installation
Inspect the strike plate to ensure it is installed correctly. The strike plate must be secured firmly to the door frame, providing a solid anchoring point for the deadbolt.
Door Jamb Reinforcement
Consider installing a door jamb reinforcement plate to enhance the stability of the door jamb and prevent the door from being kicked in.
Shimming Prevention
Apply a thin layer of caulk around the strike plate to prevent shim attacks, where a thin sheet is inserted between the door and the frame to force the lock open.
Key Duplication
Limit the number of keys made for the lock and keep track of who has access. Consider restricting key duplication to authorized personnel or utilize a key control system.
Smart Features
If installing a smart deadbolt lock, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect it to your smart home system and ensure its functionality.
Proper Use
Instruct household members or tenants on how to use the deadbolt lock correctly, ensuring it is fully engaged when the door is closed.
Regular Inspection and Maintenance
Periodically check the lock for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Clean and lubricate the lock regularly to maintain its longevity and functionality.
How To Change A Deadbolt Lock
A deadbolt lock is a type of lock that uses a bolt that slides into a hole in the door frame to secure the door. Deadbolt locks are more secure than standard locks because they cannot be opened by simply picking the lock.
If you need to change the deadbolt lock on your door, you can follow these steps:
- Gather your materials. You will need a new deadbolt lock, a screwdriver, and a drill.
- Remove the old deadbolt lock. To do this, locate the screws that hold the lock in place and remove them. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the lock straight out of the door.
- Install the new deadbolt lock. To do this, insert the lock into the hole in the door frame and secure it with the screws. Be sure to tighten the screws securely.
- Test the new deadbolt lock. To do this, open and close the door several times to make sure that the lock is working properly.
People also ask about How To Change A Deadbolt Lock
How much does it cost to change a deadbolt lock?
The cost to change a deadbolt lock will vary depending on the type of lock you choose and the complexity of the installation. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 for the lock and installation.
Can I change a deadbolt lock myself?
Yes, you can change a deadbolt lock yourself if you have the proper tools and skills. However, if you are not comfortable doing so, you can hire a locksmith to do it for you.
How long does it take to change a deadbolt lock?
It should take no more than 30 minutes to change a deadbolt lock. However, the time it takes will vary depending on the type of lock you choose and the complexity of the installation.
What are the different types of deadbolt locks?
There are many different types of deadbolt locks available, including:
- Single-cylinder deadbolt locks
- Double-cylinder deadbolt locks
- Keyless deadbolt locks
- Electronic deadbolt locks
