Replace an Exterior Door Lockset

Category: Doors · Difficulty: Beginner · Time: 1.5h · Estimated cost: $95

Tools needed

Measure backset
Open the door. Measure from the door edge to the center of the existing knob hole. Standard is 2-3/8" or 2-3/4". Buy a lockset with adjustable backset to be safe.
Duration: 5 min
Remove old hardware
Unscrew the interior trim plate, pull both halves of the knob apart. Unscrew the latch plate from the door edge and slide latch out.
Duration: 15 min
Install new latch
Slide new latch into the edge hole, tab side facing the strike. Screw plate to door edge.
Duration: 10 min
Install new knob halves
Insert exterior half through the latch. Engage interior half so the connecting tabs go through the latch slots. Screw together until snug — do not overtighten.
Duration: 15 min
Install deadbolt (same way)
Repeat the latch and body process for the deadbolt above the knob.
Duration: 20 min
Replace strike plate with security screws
Remove the old strike. Install new strike plate using the included 3" screws so they bite into the wall stud, not just the jamb.
Duration: 15 min
Test
Close door, lock and unlock both bolts with the key. Apply a small amount of dry graphite into the keyway.
Duration: 10 min

Never use grease/oil in a lock — it gums up. Use dry graphite only.
If the deadbolt sticks halfway, the strike plate is misaligned — adjust before forcing it.

If the existing holes are wrong size, or the door is metal-clad and needs new holes drilled — call a locksmith.