Installing Locks: When Not to Do It Yourself

Installing locks can be a tricky process at best. Security is critical, whether speaking of your home or your business. Incorrect lock installation can result in a security breach. Worse, it may even lead to home invasion (break-and-enter while residents are at home.) Lives, possessions and livelihood may be threatened. Installing locks must be done with precision, and should be done right the first time. How do you know when NOT to do-it-yourself?

The most important rule of thumb when it comes to any do-it-yourself project: if you have any doubts at all about your ability to see the project through from start to finish, don’t start at all. You can’t afford to make mistakes when your life and property is at stake. You also can’t afford to start installing locks, only to discover halfway through that you’re in over your head. Calling in a professional partway through a job may take time, leaving life and possessions vulnerable until such a time that a professional is available. It probably isn’t worth the risk.

Another consideration you should make when it comes to installing locks is the type of lock you are using. Some types of locks, such as cylindrical locks, are easier and more straightforward to install than a mortise lock. Cylindrical lock installation requires less cutting and drilling than mortise lock installation. Mortise locks necessitate the cutting of a cavity inside the doorframe. This requires at least a basic knowledge of woodworking, something the average do-it-yourselfer doesn’t necessarily have.

If you think you’re up to installing locks yourself, consider this checklist BEFORE you begin:

1) Read the installation instructions carefully. Read them before you purchase the product, if possible. Make sure you know ahead of time what materials and tools will be required. This includes which materials are included in the lock set, and which ones you may have to purchase separately. If any part of the directions is unclear to you, ask for help from a sales associate, see if you can find an online tutorial, or call the customer service hotline of the manufacturer. It’s critical that you understand the directions before determining whether you’re up to the job or not.

2) Read and understand the warranty/guarantee. Most lock products come with some type of a warranty. However, the warranty may become invalid if the lock has broken or has malfunctioned because of incorrect lock installation. Don’t inadvertently void your own product warranty.

3) Consult with an expert, or at least a more experienced do-it-yourselfer. If you know someone in the lock installation business that is willing to give free advice, talk over your project with him/her first. Or do the same with another do-it-yourselfer who has undertaken a similar project before. Chances are that he or she will have some excellent insights and pointers about your project that might make it easier and more successful.

4) Check your insurance. Make sure your renters/homeowner’s or business insurance will still cover a break-in even if you install locks yourself. This is particularly important with commercial lock installation. Few things are more heartbreaking than being denied coverage for a break-in because you didn’t read the fine print on your insurance contract.

Remember, once you’ve cut that mortise cavity or drilled those screw holes there’s no turning back. Make sure you’re adequately prepared and fully armed with information before installing locks on your home or business.