Hyderabadghar/Do it your self/Installing a Cylinder Lockset

The steps below explain the basic procedure for installing a lockset; you should, however, always refer to the manufacturer's instructions when inserting any door hardware. All parts necessary to complete the job will be included in the package.

If you're installing a lock in a new door, you'll need to drill holes in the door. A template supplied with the lockset will help you locate their positions. If you're replacing a lock, purchase one that will fit the existing holes.

PROJECT BASICS

Project: Easy
Estimated Project Time: 30 minutes
Estimated Project Cost: $15-$50 materials; $80 tools
Start Tips: When deciding on a motif for your headboard, hold several up against it. Experiment with a range of styles--from subtle to vivid, elegant to rustic
Safety Tips: Locksets are commonly installed in new doors about 38" from the floor.
Recommendation: Do-it-Yourself

Fig. 1

INSTRUCTIONS

1) Locate the holes
Wrap the template included with the instructions around the edge of the door and tape it in place. The template accurately locates the exact spots for drilling into the door. A knob should generally be 38 to 40 inches above the floor; keep the height consistent throughout the house. Then, using an awl, mark the centers of the holes for the lock assembly. The center of the hole in the face of the door should backset between 2-1/4 to 2-3/4 inches from the edge of the door, depending upon the type of lockset. (Fig. 1)

Fig. 2

2) Drill a hole through the door
Using a power drill with a hole-saw bit of the size recommended by the lock manufacturer, bore a hole into the door. Position the bit on the mark that was made with the awl and then, holding the drill steady, drill the hole through door just until it starts to break through to the other side. Then, to avoid splintering the wood, complete the drilling from the opposite side of the door. (Fig. 2)

Fig. 3

3) Drill a hole in the door's edge
Next, using a spade bit of the size recommended by the lock manufacturer, drill a hole into the edge of the door for the latch and latch plate. Drill through to the hole that was drilled in Step 2 on the face of the door. (Fig.3)

Fig. 4

4) Install the lockset
Insert the latch mechanism into the hole on the edge of the door and trace a line around the latch plate. Remove the latch mechanism and, using a sharp 1-1/4-inch wood chisel, make a mortise in the edge of the door so that the latch plate will be flush with the door. Insert the latch mechanism again, making sure the angled side of the latch is facing toward where the strike plate will sit in the door jamb (see Step 5).

Before you screw it to the door, insert the lockset, making sure it is properly connected to the latch mechanism (if this is a keyed lockset, align the keyway downward, as shown). Then, tighten all screws. (Fig. 4)

Fig. 5

5) Mark the latch position
Close the door and, using a sharp pencil, pinpoint the spot where the center of the latch hits the door jamb. (Fig. 5)

Fig. 6

6) Position and attach the strike plate
Hold the strike plate against the door jamb, aligning the center of the opening in the plate with the pencil mark made for the latch. Trace the outer edges and inner opening of the strike plate onto the door jamb. (Fig. 6)

With a sharp wood chisel, cut a mortise into the jamb equal to the depth of the strike plate so that the plate will lie flush with the edge of the jamb. If the cut is too deep, use cardboard to raise the plate so it is flush. To make room for the latch, use a chisel or a spade drill to bore a hole at the center of the strike plate opening. Screw the strike plate to the jamb. Close the door and recheck the alignment of the latch and strike plate before tightening the screws.