According to most posts seen on the internet, installing a deadbolt is a job that you can do yourself, including making the cutout to chiseling in the strike. However, since these locks are meant to prevent unauthorized entry, it can equally lock you in or out if complications are arising from the installation. You will require the skillsets of a well-trained locksmith, and we have a lot of expert hands for the task at hand.

Most deadbolt-lock manufacturers provide a template to help with the installation of the lock. The template is designed to work with doors of different thicknesses and has reference points that may be marked on the door with an awl. The deadbolt should be at least 6″ above your doorknob. Cut a Hole for the deadbolt using a hole saw. Be careful to prevent splinters. Drill a Hole Through the Edge of the Door using a 7/8″ spade bit. Dry-fit the bolt into the hole and trace around the faceplate. Use a wood chisel to mortise the area around the faceplate so that it will be flush with the door.

When using the chisel, keep the beveled side in toward the mortised area, and tap the tool deep enough to recess the faceplate. You may need a smaller chisel to mortise the rounded corners. Continue mortising until the faceplate fits appropriately. Drill pilot holes and secure the bolt to the door with screws. Dry-fit the cylinder and thumb-turn plate so you’ll know how the pieces fit together. Fit the exterior side onto the door first, making sure the writing is upright. Then set the interior piece in place and align the screw holes with the mounting holes inside the lock. Fasten the deadbolt in place with screws.

Drill Holes and Secure the Strike Plate. Mark the end of the bolt with paint. Close the door, and turn the deadbolt several times to mark the doorframe. Use a 7/8″ spade bit to drill two overlapping holes in the doorframe for the deadbolt. Mortise the area around the hole so the strike plate will fit flush with the doorframe. Drill pilot holes and secure the striker plate with screws.