Skip to main content
Bunnings

Sign in or sign up

No Bunnings account? Sign up
PowerPass customer?
Visit the dedicated trade website

Project list

Sign in to your account

Ready to Collect in 2 hours

How to install a deadlock

Close-up of a person attaching a striker plate over a door frame strengthener

Overview

When it comes to home security, your front door is the front line. That's why it's important to have a deadlock on it, to give you peace of mind that your home is secure.

Steps

1Handy hints

Before you buy a deadlock work out whether you have a left- or right-handed door. To do this step outside and look at the door, if the hinges are on the left, it's a left-handed door and vice versa. Also, check the backset, the distance between the outside of the door and the centre of the doorknob, that is, how far the handle is set back from the door edge. The most common backset measures in Australia are either 60mm or 70mm. But check your door just to be sure. And don't forget to read the instructions before you start.
DIY Step Image - How to install a deadlock . Blob storage upload.

2Measure and mark for the deadlock

Work out what height you want the deadlock to be on your door, making sure it won't interfere with the door handle. Once you have marked the height on the door jamb, transfer it to the door. Square off the marks on the door, so you know where to put your template.
DIY Step Image - How to install a deadlock . Blob storage upload.

3Use the template

Place the template on the door and use a combination square to ensure the template is square with the door. Most latches come with double-sided templates. Use whichever is relevant to the side you are putting your latch on. Drill four holes for the latch mounting. Mark the drill bit to ensure the hole is not too deep. Be sure to keep the drill level. Then drill a hole all the way through the door in the centre of the template. Now remove the template.
DIY Step Image - How to install a deadlock . Blob storage upload.

4Drill a hole in the door

Use a spade bit or a hole saw to drill a hole in the door. To achieve a neat cut, drill through one side of the door. When the bit comes through to the opposite side of the door, finish the cut from the other side of the door.
DIY Step Image - How to install a deadlock . Blob storage upload.

5Cut the cylinder bar to length

Put the cylinder bar through the cylinder ring and put the unit through the hole. Use the template to measure and mark where to make the cut on the cylinder bar. Cut the bar using pliers.
DIY Step Image - How to install a deadlock . Blob storage upload.

6Attach the mounting plate

Use a screwdriver to remove the mounting plate from the lock. Screw the mounting plate onto the door. Align the notch on the hub with the “V” on the mounting plate. Assemble the cylinder assembly in the door, making sure the connecting bar engages in the slot. Now attach the rear retaining screw to secure the cylinder assembly to the door, making sure the lock hole is straight.
DIY Step Image - How to install a deadlock . Blob storage upload.

7Insert the second retaining screw

Insert the key into the lock, rotate the hub enough to expose the hole for the second retaining screw. Insert the screw and tighten it. Now refit the latch to the mounting plate.
DIY Step Image - How to install a deadlock . Blob storage upload.

8Checkout for the striker plate

Place the striker plate on the door lock and close the door. Mark out where to put the checkout on the jamb. Transfer the marks around the door jamb. Once on the frame, trace around the striker plate for the checkout and mark for the depth as well.
DIY Step Image - How to install a deadlock . Blob storage upload.

9Hammer and chisel the checkout

Use a hammer and chisel to remove the wood for the checkout. Don't forget to wear your safety gear.
DIY Step Image - How to install a deadlock . Blob storage upload.

10Attach the door frame strengthener

Place the template for the door frame strengthener on the door frame, where the striker plate will go. Drill the two holes then attach the door frame strengthener with the extra-long screws.
DIY Step Image - How to install a deadlock . Blob storage upload.

11Attach the striker plate

Place the striker plate over the door frame strengthener, pre-drill and screw it into place.
DIY Step Image - How to install a deadlock . Blob storage upload.

12Test the lock

Test the lock works by going outside and making sure you can unlock it with your key.
DIY Step Image - How to install a deadlock . Blob storage upload.
Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer. You can also use a simple test kit from Bunnings to indicate the presence of lead-based paint.