How to Install a Lock Right

You don't need to pay a handy man to properly install a lock. With just a few common household tools, you can do it yourself in about an hour. Visit your local hardware store to check out lock kits, which feature hardware in a variety of metal and gold materials as well as varying shapes.

• 1

  Use your screwdriver to remove the screws from your old door handle and lock.

• 2

  Insert the new door lock latch assembly. The door handle controls the door lock latch assembly and a spring-loaded bolt operates it and keeps the door closed. Press the latch plate to the rim of the door and tighten it. Fasten the latch plate with wood screws, using your Phillips screwdriver.

• 3

  Insert the strike plate inside the hole in the wood. Keep it flush with the jamb. Tighten the strike plate and fasten it to the door frame jamb using wood screws and the Phillips screwdriver.

• 4

  Snug the outside door handle into the door from the outside. Press the sleeves of the handle into the two pre-drilled holes on the door latch.

• 5

  Snug the other door handle into the door from the other side. Screw the handles together using two longer screws, which enter through the two holes on the interior knob faceplate and exit the sleeves of the outer handle. Snug the screws with your Phillips screwdriver until each is hand tight.