How to Switch From a Deadbolt to a Key Lock

Deadbolt locks offer superior security to keyed locks, but are not always the most convenient option. Those with thumb-turn operation are lockable only from the inside and may not have a keyhole on the outside of the door. In this case, if someone is inside the door but unable or unavailable to trip the lock, there is no way for you to open the door from the outside. You can remove a deadbolt and replace it with a regular keyed lock with the same size assembly without drilling a new hole.

Philips screwdriver
Replacement lock of the same diameter

Instructions

- 1
  Open the door and twist the thumb-turn to extend the bolt. Remove the screw from the trim plate and twist or pry the plate off the door.
- 2
  Remove the strike plate from the door trim and replace it with the new plate. If the existing plate is the same color as the new one and in good condition, leave the old one in place.
- 3
  Remove the mounting screws from within the lock plate and pull the bolt assembly from the door edge.
- 4
  Place the new lock assembly into the hole in the door edge with the bevel slant facing the direction of the door trim when the door is closed. Press the keyed side of the lock plate into the hole on the outside of the door and the plain side into the hole on the inside of the door. Screw the mounting screws into the plate from the inside of the door.
- 5
  Press the lock trim on top of the assembly and secure it with trim screws. Close the door and test the lock.

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