How to Install an Exterior Door Knob & Dead Bolt
Exterior handle locks come in a variety of types and styles. Dead bolts provide added security to a home's exterior doors. Replacing the locks can also go a long way in updating your front door. Many types of exterior door hardware, including door knobs, levers and combination hand sets are available in many colors and finishes. Some exterior handles also include the dead bolt and the handle assembly all in one piece. Replacing the door hardware and dead bolt is a simple task that even a novice can complete within a relatively short amount of time. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Wood chisel (3/4-inch)
- Hammer
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Utility knife
- Door handle and deadbolt lock set
Instructions
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1
Insert the latch in the door and tighten the screws. Attach the strike plate onto the door jamb. If these pieces do not fit flush onto the door or jamb, use the chisel to etch out a larger area until they are flush.
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2
Place the exterior door handle through the hole in the door. Run the peg on the rear of the handle set through the center latch.
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3
Line up the interior portion of the door handle set and match up the peg with the hole on the handset. The entire handle assembly should fit together and be flush against the door on both sides. Screw into the door mounting plate.
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4
Use an Allen wrench included with the lock set or a screwdriver to tighten the rings and screws around the door knob or door handle plate.
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5
Test the knobs and lock to be sure both are working properly.
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Tips & Warnings
Purchase the proper handle set for your exterior door. Right-hand and left-handed lock sets are available.
If you like, you can take the new lock set into a locksmith before installation. He can key the new lock set to match your old key. A locksmith can also key all exterior locks to open with the same key.
