How to Install a Rim Deadbolt Lock

Adding a deadbolt for security can be made a little easier by using a rim-mounted lock. With a rim deadbolt, you only have to drill one hole in the door for the lock tumbler cylinder.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver Sets
• Variable-speed Drills

1. Lay out, mark and drill the size of hole specified for the lock cylinder hole in the door.

2. Attach the lock cylinder and mounting ring to the outside face of the door.

3. Mount the lock body to the inside face of the door. The previous two steps are sometimes accomplished at the same time because some brands tie the two pieces together by the mounting screws.

4. Use the position of the lock mechanism to determine the mounting position of the catch - the part of the lock that the bolt seats into. Attach the catch by sinking screws through the door trim and into the actual stud framing to insure better security.

Tips & Warnings

• A deadbolt lock is only as secure as the door and frame work that it is mounted on. An expensive lock won't do much good on a cheap, flimsy door.

on 11/22/2005 You will find that with locks, you get what you pay for. Shop around and compair prices. Generally a good quality lock will be more expensive. Consider what you want to secure and how much you want to spend. Check with qualified locksmiths - they see the damage made from a break in and will be able better to tell you then a hardware store. The three things you need to look at are:

1 The length of the bolt - not only what you see extended but how much is left in the door.
2 The size of bolts that go thru the door. The larger the diameter the stronger the bolt. (generally)
3 The size and shape of the outside housing. The larger the face the harder it is to grab onto with a wrench.