Prepping for the Task

Locks and keys - they're pretty straightforward until you're stuck on the wrong side of them. But don't sweat it! If you've lost a key or had one break off in a lock, I'm going to guide you through a fun DIY project: installing a new home door lock. It’s simpler than the escape room you tackled last weekend!

First thing, let's rattle off what you'll need: a new lock (obviously), a pair of screwdrivers - one flathead, one Phillips head, a chisel and hammer, a drill, some super-sticky masking tape, and lots and lots of patience. Got everything? Great! Let’s bring out the inner locksmith in you!

The Great Unveiling: Removing the Old Lock

To start with, let’s evict the old tenant. Yes, we’re referring to your old lock! Use your Phillips head screwdriver to extract the screws on the inside of the door. Keep them safely aside, you’re going to need them later. Essentially, all you have to do is break down the lock structure into smaller parts and remove them one by one.

Once all the pieces are out, your door should look like a yummy doughnut with two big holes in it. Pat yourself on the back, the easy part is done!

Measure Twice, Cut Once: Preparing the Door

There's an old carpenter's saying, "measure twice, cut once." Take this to heart, fellow DIY'er.

Grab your new lock package and check the instructions to know the size of holes you need. Remember, the places where the handle and the actual bolt are placed are called boreholes. Make sure the existing boreholes align correctly with your new lock piece.

Too small? We'll enlarge it with our drill. Go slow and steady, keeping the hole as round and neat as possible. In the words of William Morris, "Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful,” and that, my friends, applies to door holes too.

Too big? You’ll need to cover the old hole using a filler plate before drilling a new one.

Slide and Secure: Inviting the New Tenant

Now that you have your hole prepared, let's install your new lock. Start with the latch or deadbolt, fitting it into the edge hole. With a hammer and wooden block, gently tap the latch into place until it’s flush with the door. Okay, just kidding - feel free to knock it like you’re testing a ripe watermelon.

Fit the exterior part of the lock through the latch assembly. You want to make sure that the connecting mechanisms line up. Once you've got 'em cozy, attach the corresponding inside piece to the lock, securing it with screws.

Double-check Your Work: The Lock Test

Just like your turn for karaoke, here comes the moment of truth. Lock and unlock your door several times to ensure that there's no friction, and that the bolt extends and retracts smoothly. If it doesn't, no need to panic. Just go back and retrace your steps to see if something was installed improperly.

Last Hurrah: Installing the Strike Plate

Now, for the final stroke. No, this isn’t a game of billiards, we’re talking about installing the strike plate. Position it so the bolt goes into the hole in the plate. Mark the edge with your trusty masking tape, then remove the plate and chisel out an indentation for it to sit in.

Now, secure your strike plate with screws, and voila! You’ve just installed a new door lock!

Locking Things Up:

Well, now you can add “door locksmith” to your growing list of DIY skills right under “escape artist” and “dinosaur cupcake maker”. Remember the keys to any DIY project are patience, correct tools and detailed instructions – the rest is a piece of cake (or a bite of that dinosaur cupcake). Next time you're faced with an inconvenient lock, you can tackle it like a pro! Happy DIYing, folks!