7 Easy Steps for Changing a Deadbolt Lock

Change a Deadbolt Lock
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Changing a deadbolt lock is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. However, it is important to take the time to do it correctly, as a poorly installed deadbolt lock can compromise the security of your home. In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to change a deadbolt lock, as well as some tips for choosing the right lock for your needs.

Before you begin, you will need to gather a few tools. These include a screwdriver, a drill, and a new deadbolt lock. You may also need a tape measure and a level. Once you have all of your tools, you can begin the process of changing the deadbolt lock. The first step is to remove the old deadbolt lock. To do this, simply unscrew the screws that are holding it in place. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to pull the old deadbolt lock out of the door.

Next, you will need to install the new deadbolt lock. To do this, simply insert the new deadbolt lock into the hole in the door. Make sure that the lock is aligned properly, and then screw it into place. Once the lock is screwed in, you should test it to make sure that it is working properly. To do this, simply turn the key in the lock and make sure that the bolt extends and retracts smoothly. If the lock is not working properly, you may need to adjust the strike plate. The strike plate is the metal plate that the bolt slides into when the lock is engaged. To adjust the strike plate, simply loosen the screws that are holding it in place and move it until the bolt slides into it smoothly. Once the strike plate is adjusted, tighten the screws and test the lock again. If the lock is now working properly, you have successfully changed the deadbolt lock.

Gathering the Necessary Tools

Before embarking on your deadbolt lock replacement mission, it’s crucial to assemble the essential tools for the task. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to ensure you have everything you need:

Safety Gear

Protect your hands from any potential abrasions or cuts during the process. Gloves are a must-have safety measure.

Screwdrivers

Equip yourself with both Phillips and flathead screwdrivers to handle various screw types commonly encountered in deadbolt lock installations. Choose sizes that align with the screws in your specific lock.

Measuring Tape

To ensure proper alignment and fit, a measuring tape is essential for accurately measuring the distance between the lockset holes and the backset (distance from the door edge to the center of the hole where the latch engages with the strike plate).

Drill or Impact Driver

For drilling new holes or driving screws, a drill or impact driver can expedite the process. If you don’t have these power tools, a manual screwdriver will suffice but may require more effort.

Chisel

Depending on the type of strike plate installation, you may need a chisel to create a mortise (recess) to accommodate the strike plate.

Strike Plate

The strike plate, which secures the latch on the door frame, may need to be replaced if it’s damaged or worn. Ensure you have a new one that matches the type of strike plate used in your previous lockset.

Screws

In addition to the screws that come with your new lockset, keep a small supply of extra screws handy in case any of the existing screws are stripped or damaged during removal.

Tool	Purpose
Gloves	Protect hands
Phillips and flathead screwdrivers	Remove and install screws
Measuring tape	Measure hole distance and backset
Drill or impact driver	Drill holes and drive screws
Chisel	Create mortise for strike plate
Strike plate	Secure latch on door frame
Screws	Secure lockset components

Removing the Old Deadbolt

Replacing a deadbolt lock is a relatively straightforward task that can be completed in a few simple steps. The first step is to remove the old deadbolt.

1. Remove the faceplate screws

Using a screwdriver, remove the screws that secure the faceplate to the door. The faceplate is the metal plate that covers the exterior side of the deadbolt. Once the screws are removed, the faceplate can be pulled off.

2. Remove the strike plate

The strike plate is the metal plate that is attached to the door frame and that the deadbolt latch bolts into. To remove the strike plate, use a screwdriver to remove the screws that secure it to the door frame. Once the screws are removed, the strike plate can be pulled off.

3. Remove the deadbolt assembly

The deadbolt assembly is the main component of the lock. It is held in place by two screws that are located on the inside of the door. To remove the deadbolt assembly, use a screwdriver to remove the screws. Once the screws are removed, the deadbolt assembly can be pulled out of the door.

Here is a table that summarizes the steps for removing an old deadbolt:

Step	Description
1	Remove the faceplate screws.
2	Remove the strike plate.
3	Remove the deadbolt assembly.

Installing the New Lock Housing

Now that you have removed the old lock housing, it’s time to install the new one. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Insert the new lock housing into the door

Align the new lock housing with the hole in the door. Make sure that the latch is facing the correct direction (either in or out). Insert the lock housing into the hole until it is flush with the surface of the door.

2. Screw in the mounting bolts

There should be two or three mounting bolts included with the new lock housing. Insert the bolts through the holes in the lock housing and screw them into the door frame. Tighten the bolts until the lock housing is securely in place.

3. Install the strike plate

The strike plate is the metal plate that the latch bolts into when the door is closed. Place the strike plate on the door frame in the correct location (either above or below the lock housing, depending on the type of lock). Mark the location of the holes for the screws.

4. Drill pilot holes for the screws

Using a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the screws, drill pilot holes for the screws that will hold the strike plate in place. This will prevent the wood from splitting when you insert the screws.

Drill Bit Size	Screw Size
1/16 inch	#6 screws
5/64 inch	#8 screws
3/32 inch	#10 screws

Insert the screws into the pilot holes and tighten them until the strike plate is securely in place.

Aligning the Strike Plate

Aligning the strike plate is crucial to ensure the smooth operation of your deadbolt lock. Here’s a detailed guide on how to align the strike plate:

Place the strike plate: Hold the strike plate against the door jamb, where the deadbolt will latch into. Ensure the hole in the strike plate aligns with the latch or bolt.
Mark the holes: Use a pencil or a small nail to mark the screw holes of the strike plate on the door jamb.
Predrill the holes: Using a drill and a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw size, predrill holes at the marked locations. This will prevent the wood from splitting when you install the screws.
Align the deadbolt: Close the door and insert the deadbolt into the strike plate. Check if the deadbolt easily engages and disengages.
Adjust the strike plate: If the deadbolt doesn’t align properly, adjust the strike plate by loosening the screws and moving it slightly. Repeat steps 4-5 until the deadbolt engages and disengages smoothly.

Additional Tips:

Use a level to ensure the strike plate is installed straight.
If the strike plate is recessed into the door jamb, use a chisel to create a mortise for it.
If the strike plate is not centered on the door jamb, install a shim behind it to adjust its position.

Once the strike plate is aligned correctly, tighten the screws securely to hold it in place. Test the lock to ensure it operates smoothly and securely.

Mounting the Interior Assembly

With the strike plate and exterior assembly installed, it’s time to mount the interior assembly. This process may vary slightly depending on the specific lock model, but the general steps are as follows:

1. Align the Interior Assembly

Hold the interior assembly against the doorjamb, aligning it with the exterior assembly. Ensure the latch bolt is fully extended and the strike hole aligns with the strike plate.

2. Insert the Mounting Screws

Locate the mounting holes on the interior assembly. Using the provided screws, drive them through the holes and into the doorjamb. Ensure they are tightened securely.

3. Attach the Thumbturn

If your lock has a thumbturn, align it with the interior assembly and insert the provided set screw or pin. Tighten it to secure the thumbturn.

4. Connect the Interior and Exterior Assemblies

Locate the spindle hole on the interior assembly. Insert the provided spindle through the hole and connect it to the spindle on the exterior assembly. This connection will allow the thumbturn to operate the latch bolt.

5. Test the Lock

With everything installed, test the lock. Turn the thumbturn to extend and retract the latch bolt. Ensure the lock operates smoothly and securely. Adjust the strike plate as needed to optimize the latching mechanism.

6. Check for Proper Alignment

Once the lock is operational, verify its alignment. Ensure the latch bolt fully engages with the strike plate and that there are no gaps between the door and jamb when it’s closed. If adjustments are necessary, loosen the mounting screws slightly, adjust the lock’s position, and tighten the screws again.

Installing the Cylinder

With the latch removed, it’s time to install the new cylinder. This is where you will insert the key to lock and unlock the door. Here are the steps to do it:

Align the cylinder with the hole in the door.
Push the cylinder into the hole until it clicks into place.
Insert the screw through the hole in the side of the cylinder and tighten it with a screwdriver.
Test the cylinder by inserting the key and turning it. The door should lock and unlock smoothly.

Rekeying the Lock (Optional)

If you prefer not to replace the entire lock, you can rekey the existing one to create new keys. This involves replacing the internal pins in the lock cylinder to match a new key. Here’s a detailed guide to rekeying a deadbolt lock:

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

* New key or key blank
* Small screwdriver or Allen wrench
* Key follower (optional)

Step 2: Remove the Lock Cylinder

* Insert the key into the lock and turn it to the unlocked position.
* Remove the set screws or faceplate to expose the lock cylinder.
* Pull the lock cylinder out of the housing.

Step 3: Remove the Pin Tumblers

* Use the screwdriver or Allen wrench to push out the retainer clip from the bottom of the lock cylinder.
* Use a key follower or tweezers to push up on the bottom pin and remove it from the cylinder.
* Repeat this process for all the pins.

Step 4: Insert the New Pins

* Align the new pins with the key cuts and insert them into the cylinder from the bottom up.
* Ensure that the pins fit snugly into the holes.

Step 5: Reinstall the Retainer Clip

* Insert the retainer clip back into the bottom of the lock cylinder and push it down until it clicks into place.

Step 6: Reinstall the Lock Cylinder

* Slide the lock cylinder back into the housing and secure it with the set screws or faceplate.
* Turn the key to the locked and unlocked positions to ensure proper function.

Step 7: Create New Keys

* Take the new key to a hardware store or locksmith to have it cut to match the rekeyed lock.

Tool	Description
New key or key blank	The key that will operate the rekeyed lock.
Small screwdriver or Allen wrench	Used to remove the retainer clip and push out the pin tumblers.
Key follower	Optional tool used to guide the pins as they are inserted or removed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue: The lock is loose or wobbly

Tighten the screws that secure the lock to the door. If the screws are stripped, you may need to replace the lockset.

Issue: The key does not turn smoothly

Use a lubricant, such as WD-40, to lubricate the lock. If the key still does not turn smoothly, you may need to replace the lock cylinder.

Issue: The lock is jammed

Try jiggling the key or using a lubricant to free the lock. If the lock remains jammed, you may need to call a locksmith.

Issue: The lock is not locking

Ensure that the bolt is fully extended and that the strike plate is properly aligned. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the lock.

Issue: The lock is difficult to open from the inside

Check that the thumb turn is properly installed and that it is not obstructed by anything. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the thumb turn.

Issue: The lock is not keyed alike

If you want all of your locks to work with the same key, you can rekey them yourself using a rekeying kit. Alternatively, you can have a locksmith rekey the locks for you.

Issue: The lock is not weatherproof

Apply a weather-resistant sealant to the exterior of the lock to protect it from the elements.

Issue: The lock is not secure

Consider upgrading to a high-security lock, such as a deadbolt with a 1-inch throw or a multi-point lock.

Issue: The lock is not aesthetically pleasing

Choose a lock that complements the style of your door and home.

Issue: The lock is not fire-rated

If you live in a multi-unit building or in an area with strict fire codes, you may need to install a fire-rated lock.

How To Change A Deadbolt Lock

Deadbolt locks are a common type of lock used on doors to provide additional security. They are typically installed on the inside of the door and consist of a bolt that extends into a strike plate on the door frame. Deadbolt locks can be either single-cylinder or double-cylinder. Single-cylinder locks require a key to be unlocked from the outside, but can be opened from the inside without a key. Double-cylinder locks require a key to be unlocked from both the inside and the outside.

If you need to change the deadbolt lock on your door, you will need the following tools:

A Phillips head screwdriver

A flat head screwdriver

A new deadbolt lock

A strike plate (if necessary)

Once you have gathered your tools, you can follow these steps to change the deadbolt lock:

Remove the old deadbolt lock by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.

If the old deadbolt lock is a double-cylinder lock, you will need to remove the key from the inside of the lock before you can remove the screws.

Once the old deadbolt lock is removed, you can install the new deadbolt lock by following the instructions that came with the lock.

Be sure to tighten the screws that hold the new deadbolt lock in place securely.

Once the new deadbolt lock is installed, test it to make sure that it is working properly.