How to Replace a Deadbolt Strike Plate

Why should you replace a strike plate when the one you have is perfectly usable? If your deadbolt strike plate requires two screws instead of four, someone may be able to break into your home more easily. A strike plate that comes with a deadbolt is not always the safest route to go. Make your doorjamb harder to break into by installing a tougher strike plate.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Pencil
• Screwdriver
• Wood chisel
• Drill
• 1-inch spade bit
• Utility knife
• Measure tape
• New strike plate with four screws

1. Find a new strike plate to install with four screws.

2. Take your pencil and tape measure. Measure the center of the currently installed plate on the top and bottom. Mark the top and bottom with your pencil. This helps you find the center of the hole. Install the new plate temporarily so you can cut around it with your utility knife. This will mark where it will go once the plate comes back off.

3. Take the temporary plate off, then use your wood chisel and drill to start carving out holes for the new plate and strike box. If your strike box is bigger than the existing holes, use your 1 inch bit to make two holes the size of the box you are using. Scrape and clean the area with your chisel bevel side down. Remove as many layers of wood necessary to make your strike box and plate fit flush.

4. Pre-drill your holes in the studs for your screws. You will have four 10 x 3 inch wood screws to install. Screws need to be well fitting to the plate. Attach the plate and box using your 3-inch screws.

5. Screw the top and bottom screws in first. Finish with screwing in the last two screws flush into the strike box.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your screws go into your studs. This will reinforce the strength of the lock.