How to Add a Lock in a Metal Door

Deadbolt Lock

• 1

  Hold the lock template up to the door front and edge at the desired height. Deadbolts can be positioned at any point along the door but are typically installed slightly below eye level. Check for level and tape the template to the door.

• 2

  Attach a bi-metal hole saw blade in the correct size for the lock hole to an electric drill. Blade and hole sizing vary by lock type and are listed on the lock template or lock installation instructions.

• 3

  Place the hole saw blade against the indicator mark on the lock template. Drill through the door until the blade penetrates the metal on the other side. Remove the blade and drill through the back side. Remove the loose pieces of metal and discard. Vacuum all traces of metal dust from the door and floor.

• 4

  Attach a bi-metal spade bit in the correct size for the bolt hole to the electric drill. Place the blade against the center of the guide along the door edge. Drill through the door until the bit meets the lock hole you drilled through the door panel.

• 5

  Slide the bolt and edge plate assembly into the hole. Fit the electric drill with a Philips screwdriver bit. Screw metal-boring mounting screws through the edge plate and into the door edge.

• 6

  Unscrew and remove the two mounting screws from within the keyed side of the lock assembly and insert the assembly into the lock hole on the door exterior. Look through the interior side of the lock hole and line up the screw holes on the lock assembly with the holes on the bolt assembly. Screw the mounting screws through both holes and tighten with a Philips screwdriver.

• 7

  Insert the other side of the lock into the hole on the door interior. Press until you hear a click. Place the trim plate on top of the lock assembly and line up the screw holes. Insert trim screws into the holes and tighten with a Philips screwdriver.

• 8

  Screw the thumb turn clockwise into the hole in the center of the lock trim.

Chain Lock

• 9

  Position the paper lock template against the door trim at about eye level, or lower on the door if you want children to be able to reach the lock. Line the vertical line of the template up to the door edge and mark the screw holes with a pencil. Remove the template.

• 10

  Fit an electric drill with a Philips screwdriver bit. Screw mounting screws through the chain trim and into the door trim.

• 11

  Hold the lock slide up to the door panel opposite the chain with the round end of the slide positioned away from the door edge. Screw metal-boring mounting screws through the mounting holes and into the door. Test the chain. The door should open no more than 1 inch with the chain engaged.