How to Install a Deadbolt on a Door Without a Hole: Pro Guide

Published Date: Nov 3, 2025

Want the security of a true deadbolt on a door that doesn’t have one yet? You’ll need to cut a hole for the deadbolt through the front of the door and a smaller hole in the door’s edge for the deadbolt latch. In this guide, Sure Lock & Key explains how to install a deadbolt on a door without a hole — including measurements, drill order, and alignment — for a tidy, reliable door hardware installation.

The Security Benefits of a Fresh Deadbolt Installation

Adding a new deadbolt is one of the best security upgrades for your home. Unlike a spring-latch knob, a deadbolt drives a solid steel bolt into the strike, which makes kick-ins far harder. Look for ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 or Grade 2 hardware for real stopping power. If your door is 1-3/8 in. or 1-3/4 in. thick (most residential doors are), a modern retrofit deadbolt will fit cleanly with the right bore sizes. Many homeowners DIY this project, but a professional lock installation can save the door from splintering, protect the finish, and dial in bolt throw and strike alignment. Sure Lock & Key can advise on grade, finish, and cylinder type to match your door and neighborhood needs.

Essential Tools: The Door Lock Jig and Hole Saws

To do this job cleanly, you need more than just a drill. A deadbolt installation jig clamps to the door and sets the backset so every hole lines up. It takes all the guesswork out of alignment.

Toolkit Checklist

Essential Tools: The Door Lock Jig and Hole Saws

Variable-speed power drill
Hole saw for the door lock (face bore): 2-1/8 in.
Spade bit or small hole saw (latch bore): 1 in.
Tape measure and pencil
Sharp wood chisel and hammer (or a trim router with a mortise template)
Safety glasses and a mask
Optional but smart: 3 in. strike screws (to bite into the wall stud), painter’s tape, and a scrap block as a blowout backer

Step-by-Step Guide to Cut a Hole for a Deadbolt

You’ve got your drill, deadbolt installation jig, and the right hole saw for the door lock work. Now it’s time to start. Ready? Let’s get a clean door hardware installation with these steps.

Step 1: Mark Height and Backset

First, decide on the height. A new deadbolt usually goes 6 to 12 inches above the existing doorknob. Next, you need to set the “backset.” This is the distance from the edge of the door to the center of your large hole. Most deadbolts and jigs are adjustable for the two common backsets: 2-3/8 in. or 2-3/4 in. Mark your height and backset lightly with a pencil.

Step 2: Drill the Face Hole for the Lock Body

Secure your deadbolt installation jig to the door, aligning it with your marks. The jig will have a guide for the 2-1/8 in. hole saw for the door lock. Drill until the pilot bit just peeks through. Stop, move to the other side, and finish the cut to prevent blowout. Use painter’s tape or a scrap backer board to protect the finish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cut a Hole for a Deadbolt

Step 3: Drill the Latch Hole on the Door’s Edge

Now, move to the edge of the door. Using the guide on your jig, drill the 1 in. hole for the latch bolt. This hole must run straight and level until it connects perfectly with the large 2-1/8 in. hole you just drilled.

Step 4: Mortise for the Latch Plate

Slip the latch in and trace the plate. Chisel a shallow mortise so the plate sits flush (no proud edges). Many latches come as drive-in or rectangular plates. Pick the style that matches your door prep. Clean, flat fits are a hallmark of good door hardware installation.

Step 5: Install the Deadbolt and Strike Plate

Fit the exterior and interior cylinders, keeping the tailpiece centered through the latch. Snug the through-bolts evenly — don’t overtighten. Close the door, extend the bolt, and mark the frame. Drill the strike pocket and install the strike box with 3 in. screws into the stud. This strengthens the frame and resists kick-ins. If your frame is out of square, shim behind the strike for perfect alignment.

This process works for wood doors, but if you need to know how to install a deadbolt lock on a metal door, the steps are a bit different.

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Your Guide to a Secure Deadbolt Installation

While it’s a project you can tackle, knowing how to install a deadbolt on a door without a hole properly starts with the right layout and a quality deadbolt installation jig. Take your time, mark centers carefully, and drill from both sides for a clean face bore.

Feeling a little nervous about drilling that 2-inch hole in your front door? If you’re not 100% confident, don’t risk your door’s security or the door itself. Sure Lock & Key’s residential locksmith team handles fresh fits, rekeys, and strike reinforcements every day. We have the tools and experience to add a deadbolt to a door quickly and perfectly, so it’s not just installed, but installed securely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you really install a deadbolt without drilling?

Not a traditional, secure deadbolt. Those require drilling. You might be thinking of a surface-mounted night latch or rim lock, which attaches to the inside face of the door. To add a deadbolt to a door for high security, drilling is necessary.

What is a deadbolt installation jig?

A deadbolt installation jig is a template that clamps to your door to guide your drill bits. It helps the face and latch holes line up perfectly. It’s the most important tool for this door hardware installation.

What happens if I mess up drilling the hole?

A badly drilled hole can be hard to fix, often requiring wood filler, a “door wrap” plate, or even a new door. This is why many people choose a professional lock installation from a residential locksmith.

What if I’m locked out of my new deadbolt?

Being locked out is stressful. Instead of trying to force the lock (which can damage it), your best bet is to call a professional. You can read about the methods pros use in our guide on how to unlock a deadbolt lock without a key.

When you’re locked out and there’s no other way in, drilling a deadbolt lock can be a last resort. It’s not ideal — it damages the lock and should only be used as a last resort. Before picking up a drill, it’s important to understand the right technique to avoid unnecessary damage to your door. This guide from Sure Lock & Key walks you through how to drill out a deadbolt lock safely. We’ll cover the tools you’ll need, the steps to follow, and when it’s better to leave the job to a professional home locksmith to ensure a clean, more controlled result.

How to Change a Deadbolt Like a Pro: A Complete DIY Guide

A new deadbolt is a great way to boost your home’s security, whether you’ve just moved in or are ready for an upgrade. This guide from Sure Lock & Key provides simple instructions on how to change a deadbolt lock, making it a straightforward project for most homeowners. A proper deadbolt installation is one of the most effective DIY security improvements you can make. We’ll cover everything from removing the old lock to installing the new one, helping you get the job done right.

How to Unlock a Deadbolt Lock Without a Key: The Pro Solution

Deadbolts are built to hold. They’re great for security, but they can still leave you locked out. If you’re searching for how to open a deadbolt lock without a key, the real question isn’t just how to get inside but how to do it without damaging your property. This guide lays out safe, legal options to try and the methods to avoid. Drawing on years in the field, Sure Lock & Key outlines professional methods used for owner-authorized lockouts. Our goal is simple: help you get back inside quickly without a bigger repair bill. Ready to see what actually works? Let’s look at what you need to know to get back inside without damage.