How Should A Strike Plate’S Interior Be Finished?

This article provides a step-by-step guide on installing a door strike plate, which is essential for ensuring the door stays closed. The process involves inserting either a triangular or flat file into the strike plate, filing off enough metal to allow the latch to catch inside and secure the door. If the filing action is shaking the strike plate, remove it and secure it in a vise for repair. Then, reinstall the plate with longer screws.

Strike plates are installed on the door frame and contain a hole that receives the spring loaded latch or bolt that comes out of the latch or lock. There are several generic type of strikers that work with these plates. To fix a door that won’t latch, simply file the edge of the strike plate until the latch clicks into place. This five-minute fix is quick and easy.

To fix blown out screw holes for a strike plate, wood glue and toothpicks can be used. Another method is to cut a plug to fill the old hole, glue it in place, sand and finish it to match the paint, then drill a new latch hole. If possible, glue a plug into the latch hole and drill out the existing screw holes with a 1/4″ bit and glue plugs of 1/4″ dowel.

After fitting the internal door handles, complete the installation by fitting a dust socket, keep, and strike. Extended strike plates come in various finishes, including polished brass and satin chrome. A sharp chisel should be used to enlarge the indented section that holds the strike plate. Finally, screw the strike plate on, trace around it with a sharp utility knife, score it not quite 1/8″ deep, and remove the strike plate.