Is It Possible To Add A Deadbolt Lock On An Internal Door?

Installing a deadbolt lock is a crucial step in adding more security to your home. Most experts recommend placing the deadbolt several inches above the doorknob already in place, and most locks come with a template to ensure proper drilling. However, if you’re unsure or don’t want to ruin the door, Mr. Handyman can help.

To install a deadbolt, locate the deadbolt 6-12 inches above the doorknob and align the slot with the tailpiece, making sure the top is facing up. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation. Deadbolts offer a cost-effective way of increasing a home’s security, and if you’re concerned that your standard door locks aren’t strong enough, this may be a sensible option.

To install a deadbolt on an interior door, follow the same process as for an exterior door. Mark the door for drilling by tapping the template to the inside of the door (wood doors have a bevel that will throw measurements off if you use the exterior side). Place the template so the center of the deadbolt is at the center of the door.

Interior doors are usually thinner than exterior doors, so many deadbolts won’t fit on them. If you’re intending to add a deadbolt to the existing door, it would be straightforward with a drill, chisel, and keyhole saw. To install a standard deadbolt, attach suitable pieces of 1/2 inch plywood on the inside of the door and the jamb and proceed to cut holes.

In summary, installing or replacing a deadbolt lock is an easy project that can be completed in one day. Follow these steps to ensure the safety and security of your home.

Can you drill a deadbolt hole in a door?

1. Use the template provided with the dead-bolt kit to determine the lock’s setback. Mark the lock’s location on the door frame in relation to the doorknob, ensuring a 6 inch vertical distance.
2. Drill a hole 1½ inches in diameter through the door, exposing the hole on the opposite side. Drill an additional 3/8-inch into the back of the side hole.
3. Place the bolt in the hole along the door’s edge, tracing around the mounting plate with a pencil and chiseling out the area to fit flush with the surface.
4. Insert both sides of the dead-bolt cylinders into the door, ensuring the driver bars are engaged and secured in place with screws.
5. Drill two overlapping 7/8-inch holes 1 1/8-inch deep along the doorjamb, tracing around the edge of the mounting plate and chiseling out dimensions about ¼-inch deep for a flush fit.
6. Secure the plate in place with screws.

Subscribe to receive daily updates, ads, and offers from HGTV and its affiliates.

Can you put a deadlock on an internal door?

3 lever deadlocks are suitable for internal wooden doors due to their limited number of levers, making them unsuitable for external doors. However, they are suitable for rooms with privacy and needing lockable access from both sides. Deadlocks come with two keys, a matching forend, and striker in various finishes. A 3 inch deadlock from the Old English collection is an example. A deadbolt is typically used for locking bathroom doors and is manually operated with an additional turn and release mechanism. Mortice-fitted into the door, it has a backset hole for the mortice bar of the turn and release thumbturn.

Can you add a lock to an internal door?

Mortice locks can be fitted to most internal doors, but it’s crucial to check door thickness and construction before installation. Some hollow-core doors may not be suitable. Standard DIY tools can be used, but a mortice lock installation kit can make the job easier and more precise. DIY installation is generally cheaper, but professional fitting may be more cost-effective for complex installations or valuable doors. Investing in a mortice lock installation kit can ensure the best results.

Do deadbolts fit all doors?

Most doors are drilled with a standard bore hole diameter of 2 1/8″ with a 1″ cross bore, which is the same as most brands. To measure the bore hole, hold a measuring tape or ruler across it. Standard backsets are also available, but will be discussed in the next page. If you have standard door prep, choose a deadbolt type. If you have standard door prep, choose the appropriate deadbolt type.

Should I put locks on internal doors?

Securing interior doors is an effective method for enhancing the security of a residential or commercial property.

How thick does a door need to be for a deadbolt?

The door preparation for a 158 Halifax Deadbolt can range from 1-3/8″ to 1-3/4″ in thickness, with the option of 2-1/4″ using a thick door kit. This deadbolt is designed to fit a pre-drilled door with a 1-1/2″ diameter borehole. To order a thick door kit for your 158 Milan, use part 820289 and contact Kwikset Consumer Service at 1-800-327-5625. Both deadbolts require proper drilling instructions and a thick door kit for proper installation.

Can you add a deadbolt to an existing door?

Secure the jig with clamps to align with the deadbolt assembly center. Drill temporary holes into the side of the door for jig attachment. Bore a hole for the deadbolt assembly using a power drill and a 2-1/8-inch hole saw. Continue drilling until the hole saw reaches the other side of the door. Remove the saw and remove a scrap piece of wood. Bore a hole for the bolt latch assembly at the door’s edge. Drill into the door until the larger hole is reached. Keep the drill level for proper locking. Reverse the drill and remove the scrap piece of wood after completion.

Can you put locks on internal doors?

Mortice locks can be fitted to most internal doors, but it’s crucial to check door thickness and construction before installation. Some hollow-core doors may not be suitable. Standard DIY tools can be used, but a mortice lock installation kit can make the job easier and more precise. DIY installation is generally cheaper, but professional fitting may be more cost-effective for complex installations or valuable doors. Investing in a mortice lock installation kit can ensure the best results.

How to add a deadbolt to a door that doesn’t have one?

To install a deadbolt lock, follow these steps: 1) Measure and mark the door, 2) Use a hole saw to drill through the door, 3) Chisel and install the faceplate, 4) Drill the bolt hole and install the strike plate. With the right tools, even a novice DIYer can complete the job with relative ease. Even a high-quality lockset isn’t enough to keep out an experienced burglar. Combining a lockset and a deadbolt is better than just a lockset.

The installation process is easy and can be completed within a couple of hours, saving you time and money. This article may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

What are the disadvantages of a deadbolt lock?

Deadbolt locks are more robust and challenging to breach than other types of locks. However, they are not invulnerable, and residential burglaries can still occur even when the lock in question is of the deadbolt variety.