Master the art of DIY home improvement by following our guide on how to install a keyless door lock on any exterior door.
Time 1 hour or less
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$75 to $200
Introduction
Say goodbye to lost keys forever with this step-by-step project on installing a keypad door lock on your exterior door.
Tired of worrying about losing your keys or being locked out? Consider swapping one of your old locks for a snazzy electronic keypad door lock. Instead of fumbling with keys, you just punch in a four-digit number of your choice. You can even change the code whenever you want. Bonus: you can set up temporary codes for guests, then delete them after they leave to keep your home secure.
If you’re thinking about a keyless entry system, you should definitely check out smart keyless locks! I chose to go with a smart keypad door lock because they are super convenient, especially when you can’t remember if you locked the front door. They are installed in the same way as a keyless lock, but you will need to have an outlet within 30-ft. of the smart lock placement for the Bluetooth smart plug to connect. With a smart keypad door lock, you can lock or unlock your front door from your smartphone, no matter where you are. How awesome is that?
Tools Required
- Chisel
- Screwdrivers
- Tape measure
Materials Required
- Keypad door lock
Project step-by-step (9)
Step 1
Remove the existing deadbolt
Remove the deadbolt lock. Use a screwdriver to take out the screws on the inside of the door.
Step 2
Check the required dimensions
Check your user manual for the required dimensions, and if necessary, use a hole saw to cut the correct-sized holes.
Step 3
Remove the old strike plate
Using a screwdriver, remove the existing strike plate if present. To ensure the new strike plate sits flush with the exterior door edge, trace the new strike plate on the edge of the door and chisel out the traced area for it to sit flush into. Chisel only as deep as the thickness of the strike plate, usually 1/8-in. or less.
Pro tip: Lock manufacturers tend to use the same shaped strike plates for most of their locks. So if you don’t want to hassle with chiseling out a lock’s strike plate, purchase a keyless door lock from the same manufacturer as the door knob or deadbolt, you are replacing it with.
Step 4
Set the latch backset
Most new door locks come pre-set with a 2-3/8-in. backset, which is the measurement from the door edge to the center of the lock hole. That said, many doors also have a 2-3/4-in. backset, so you’ll have to adjust the latch accordingly. Check the lock instructions for your specific lock to see how to adjust the backset (if needed).
Step 5
Install the latch
Insert the latch into the hole, ensuring that the “TOP” is facing up, and tighten the screws using a screwdriver. Make sure the bolt is fully retracted.
Step 6
Install the strike plate in the door jamb
Secure the strike plate into the door jamb using a screwdriver. Ensure that the bolt moves freely in the hole and that the plate is properly aligned. If necessary, use a chisel to notch out any wood that is preventing the plate from sitting in position.
Step 7
Pass the cable under the latch and secure the mounting plate
Run the cable from the front plate underneath the latch through a notch before mounting the back plate to the door. Use the bolts provided to secure the mounting plate.
Step 8
Install interior assembly
Connect the cable to the interior assembly. Keep the thumb turned in a vertical position before inserting the torque blade into the slot. Use the provided screws to secure the battery interior assembly. Then, install the batteries.
Step 9
Setup the smart plug
Review your device manual or video for instructions on programming your unique keypad door lock. If you have smart locks, download the required app to create an account and link your lock. Plug the smart plug into an outlet near the lock, no more than 30 feet away. Also, familiarize yourself with the different colors on the lock and what they indicate.
FAQ
How to change the battery on a keypad door lock
You’ll find the batteries under the faceplate on the inside of the door. Just grab a screwdriver to take out the screws holding the faceplate in place.
Do keypad locks require power?
Keyless door locks require batteries to operate, so the keypad will not be impacted if power is lost.
How to change the code on the door lock?
Follow the programming instructions for your specific lock. If you don’t have the instructions on hand, you can find them online. Generally, the process involves unlocking the door, priming the lock, entering the new code, and then testing the new code to ensure it works properly.
