Installing a door lock might seem like a task for only the handiest among us, but with the right tools and a little guidance, anyone can enhance their home security. Whether you’re wondering how to fit a lock to an internal door or want to update your front door lock, read on for our step-by-step guide.
Not only will you feel a sense of accomplishment, but you’ll also be ensuring that your home is a safer place.
Choosing the right door lock
Before diving into the installation, it’s important to choose the right type of door lock. There are several lock types available, each serving a different purpose. Are you looking for a privacy door handle for your bathroom? Or do you need a robust external door lock?
Here are a few types of door lock to consider:
- Mortice sash locks: These locks combine a latch and a deadbolt in one unit. They’re ideal for giving external doors added security.
- Tubular deadbolt locks: Typically used for interior doors, these locks don’t have a handle and lock only from one side.
- Mortice deadlocks: Strong locks that only feature a keyhole and a bolt, providing robust security without a latch mechanism.
- Bathroom locks: Specifically designed for privacy, these locks are used in bathrooms and include an emergency release from the outside.
- Turn and release bathroom locks: These offer a privacy function with a twist mechanism on the inside and emergency release on the outside — they’re ideal for bathroom doors.
Consider what level of security you need, as well as how the lock will complement your existing door furniture. If you’re not sure, our team of knowledgeable staff can guide you through your options.
Tools and materials
To fit a door lock, you will need:
- A new door lock kit
- Screwdriver set
- Drill with bits (including a hole saw bit)
- Tape measure and pencil
- Chisel and hammer
- Spirit level (optional)
Preparing the door
First thing’s first, you’ll need to prepare your door before installing the lock. This isn’t too tricky, but you’ll have to take note of the following steps to get it right.
Step 1: Measure and mark the door
Using your tape measure, determine the placement of the lock on the door. Standard practice is to position the lock about 36 to 40 inches (91cm to 102cm) from the bottom of the door. Mark this spot with your pencil — this is where you’ll drill holes for the lock.
Step 2: Drill the holes
Attach the hole saw bit to your drill. Place the drill at the marked spot and carefully begin to drill the main hole for the lock body. Go slowly to ensure the hole is clean and even. Next, drill a smaller hole through the edge of the door where the bolt will slide into the door frame.
Installing the lock
Now for the most important part — how to fit your door lock.
Step 1: Fit the lock into the door
Take the lock assembly from your kit and insert it into the larger hole on the door’s face. Make sure that the lock’s keyhole is positioned correctly (usually the keyhole should be below the handle when the lock is right side up).
For a tubular deadbolt, ensure the bolt side faces the direction of the locking side. With mortice deadlocks, position the keyhole correctly, typically below the handle.
Step 2: Secure the lock
Once the main part of the lock is inserted, align the mounting plate on the inside of the door and use your screwdriver to secure it with screws. This will hold the lock in place.
If you’re wondering how to fit a bathroom door thumb-turn lock, first drill a hole in the door for the lock, insert the thumb-turn mechanism, and secure it with screws.
Step 3: Attach the strike plate
Align the strike plate (the metal plate that will catch the bolt) with the smaller hole on the door frame. Use the chisel and hammer to make a recess in the frame so that the plate sits flush. Screw the strike plate in place.
For stronger security as provided by mortice locks, you might need to deepen the recess to accommodate the larger bolt.
Finishing touches
There are a couple of final flourishes you can add to your door before you finish the lock installation process.
Install your door handles
Install your door handles or knobs by attaching them to the lock mechanism through the door. These should align easily with the existing setup providing your measurements are accurate. Screw these in tightly to ensure they function smoothly with the lock.
Test the lock
With everything in place, it’s time to test your new lock. Close the door and turn the key or thumb turn a few times to ensure the bolt engages and retracts smoothly. Make any necessary adjustments if you find the lock sticking or not aligning properly with the strike plate.
Find the right door and door lock with A Wood Idea
At A Wood Idea, we specialise in a comprehensive collection of internal and external doors as well as a range of door locks, ensuring your home is secure and stylish.
Browse our full lineup of doors and feel free to contact us with any questions. If you’re in the area, visit our showroom to experience the quality and craftsmanship of our products firsthand.
