The Basics of Door Lock Installation

Making sure your home is secure is essential, and one of the best ways to do that is to install locks on your doors. However, door lock installation isn’t always an easy process and can be a bit intimidating if you’ve never done it before. To help you out, here are the basics of door lock installation.

Tools Required
Before you can begin installing your door locks, the first step is to ensure you have all the right tools. Different locks require different tools, but some of the most common ones you’ll need are a screwdriver, a drill, a drill bit, and a chisel.

Select the Right Lock
Once you have all the necessary tools, it’s time to select the right lock. There are a variety of types of locks you can choose from, including deadbolt locks, mortise locks, and knobs. Before selecting the right lock for you, ensure that it’s compatible with the type of door you have.

Install the Lock
Now that you have all your materials and the correct lock, it’s time to begin installation. Depending on the type of lock you have, the installation will vary. But in general, you’ll start by making a hole in the door edge to fit the lockset, then use the screwdriver to secure the lock to the door. After that, you’ll secure the latch and faceplate, then insert the key.

Finishing Touches
Once the lock is installed, use a Phillips-head screwdriver to ensure the screws are properly installed. Then apply any finishing touches if you’d like. Examples of finishing touches include paintings, stains, varnishes, etc.

Call a Professional
If for some reason you’ve encountered an issue with door lock installation or if you’d just prefer a professional take care of the job, you can contact Locksmith Columbus. We provide 24/7 door lock installation services to customers in Central Ohio. Give us a call at (614) 585-8955 to get a free quote.

The Basics of Door Lock Installation

As a locksmith in Central Ohio, one of the most common services we provide is door lock installation. We know that installing locks on your own can be intimidating, so we’ve put together this simple guide to help you understand the basics of door lock installation.

Types of Door Lock

Before you get started, it’s important to understand all the different types of door locks and their different features. The following is an overview of the main types of door locks and their applications:

• Deadbolt Locks: Deadbolt locks are the most secure type of lock and are commonly used for front and back door security. They typically require a key to lock and unlock from both sides of the door.
• Lever Handles: Lever-style handles are commonly used for interior doors such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and closets and offer a higher level of convenience and security. They can be locked and unlocked from either side of the door.
• Cylinder Locks: Cylinder locks are the most common type of lock and are used on a variety of exterior and interior doors. They are easy to install and use but require a key to lock and unlock from either side of the door.
• Knob Locks: Knob locks are a simple way to secure an interior door. They are easy to install and use but do not offer a high level of security.
• Electronic Locks: Electronic locks are a modern security solution. They offer a high level of security and convenience by allowing you to access your door through a PIN code, a keycard, or a mobile app.

Now that you understand the different types of locks available, it’s time to get started on your door lock installation.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you get started, you’ll need to make sure that you have the right tools and materials for the job. Here is a list of what you should have on hand:

• Measuring Tape
• Drill and/or Hammer
• Drill Bits
• Screwdrivers
• Latch Kit
• Mortise Kit (for lever handle or knob locks)
• Chisel (for lever handle locks)
• Safety Glasses

Now that you’ve gathered all the necessary materials, it’s time to start the installation.

Steps for Installing a Deadbolt Lock

• Begin by measuring the door to ensure that the lock you’ve chosen will fit. There should be at least ¼ inch of clearance between the door and the lock.
• Once you’ve determined the correct size of the lock, mark the location on the door where the lock will be installed. This is where you’ll need to drill the holes for the lock.
• When you’re ready to drill, use the correct type of drill bit for the material of your door (wood, metal, or composite).
• Next, use the screwdriver to secure the latch kit to the door according to the supplied instructions.
• Once the latch kit is installed, place the lock in the designated space and use the screws provided to secure the lock to the latch kit.
• After the lock is installed, make sure all the screws and components are properly tightened and that the key works smoothly.

Steps for Installing a Lever Handle or Knob Lock

• Begin by measuring the door to ensure that the lock you’ve chosen will fit. There should be at least ¼ inch of clearance between the door and the lock.
• Once you’ve determined the correct size of the lock, mark the location on the door where the lock will be installed.
• If you’re installing a mortise lock, use the chisel to create a depression in the door at the pre-marked location.
• Once the depression is complete, place the mortise kit in the depression and use the screws provided to secure it in place.
• Once the mortise kit is installed, place the lock in the designated space and use the screws provided to secure the lock to the mortise kit.
• After the lock is installed, make sure all the screws and components are properly tightened and that the handle or knob turns freely.

Steps for Installing an Electronic Lock

• Begin by measuring the door to ensure that the lock you’ve chosen will fit. There should be at least ¼ inch of clearance between the door and the lock.
• Once you’ve determined the correct size of the lock, mark the location on the door where the lock will be installed.
• When you’re ready to install the lock, drill the holes for the mounting plate and connect any other components according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• After the lock is installed, mount the strike plate and secure the mounting plate to the door and strike plate according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Once the lock is installed, make sure that the keypad is working correctly and that the lock locks and unlocks smoothly.

For Professional Door Lock Installation, Contact Locksmith Columbus

For complex or large-scale door lock installation projects, it’s always best to contact a professional locksmith. At Locksmith Columbus, we offer the highest quality locks and specialize in door lock installation and repair. Our technicians are trained and experienced in all types of locks, from deadbolts to electronic locks.

If you’re in Central Ohio and you’re in need of professional door lock installation, contact Locksmith Columbus at (614) 585-8955. Our team of experienced and locksmiths are ready to help you secure your home or business with quality locks and door locks installation services that you can trust.