How to Install a Handset Door Lock

There are several reasons you may need to install a door lock. Common wear and tear is the most common reason. Often, after years of use, a lock can begin to not function properly. You may be looking to upgrade the appearance of your lock, or you may be switching the locks for security purposes. Finally, if installing a new door, you will need to install a new lock set. The good news is that installing a handset door lock is a fairly simple procedure.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Phillips screwdriver Flathead screwdriver

1. Remove the existing handset. From the inside of the door, you will be able to access two screws that hold the exterior and interior handles together. Remove these screws with a screwdriver, and you will be able to pull apart the handset.

2. Remove the guts of the lock by removing the cover plate on the side of the door. This will allow access to the lock, which will slide out.

3. Slide the new lock mechanism into place through the opening in the side of the door. Screw the face plate into the door.

4. Install the handsets. One of them will have a square post that fits through an opening in the lock mechanism and into a cavity in the mating handle. Turn the handle, and check the lock operation before screwing the handset together from the interior side of the door.

5. Ensure that the key and the thumb lock work properly before closing the door.

Tips & Warnings

• New doors are best purchased with all holes bored for handsets. If you are replacing several locks, they can be purchased so that they are keyed the same. This means that you only need one key for all the locks.