Residential & Commercial Security - Locks, Keys & Dead Bolts - Where can I find a 3-1/2 backset lock???
Doityourself.com community forum was created to provide answers to all questions related to home improvement and home repair. Doityourself community can help you find information about how-to topics on small fixes to large remodeling projects. With comprehensive how-to content and expertly moderated community forums DoItYourself.com makes it easy to tackle even the most complex home improvement projects.View Full Version : Where can I find a 3-1/2 backset lock???
eml1217
02-06-09, 11:40 PM
We just moved into a condo built in the 80's. The front door will not take a lock that can be bought at lowes or home depot. We measured the backset at 3-1/2 in. The condo president told us it was an old Weiser lock. We emailed Weiser pictures of our lock and no luck. We tried the local locksmith who says they are not made anymore. Can we find this size anywhere or should I think about investing in a new door?Thanks!!!!
Gunguy45
02-07-09, 06:24 AM
Just to clarify...did you measure from the edge of the door to the BACK of the hole? That would be incorrect.
The backset is from the edge to the center of the hole.
JUst checking...I've seen it happen before. The Lock Pro's will probably check in this weekend.
The backset is from the edge to the center of the hole.
JUst checking...I've seen it happen before. The Lock Pro's will probably check in this weekend.
eml1217
02-07-09, 09:55 AM
No we measured from the edge of the door to the middle of the hole. This is why we are having a problem finding a new lockset, very uncommon backset.
GlobalLocky
02-07-09, 12:19 PM
Is this a rebated door?
That would explain the measurement.
Many latches require a 1/2" wide plate to be used on a standard latch. This takes up the doors "rebate".
That would explain the measurement.
Many latches require a 1/2" wide plate to be used on a standard latch. This takes up the doors "rebate".
rstripe
02-10-09, 06:48 PM
Without digging up an old Weiser catalogue, I can't remember any cylindrical lock being available in 3-1/2" backset, but several brands offer 3-3/4" and 5" backsets....these were popular in the 60's when big decorative roses (the trim ring at the base of the knob) were used....Schlage brand still offers 3-3/4" BS latches on their "A" & "D" series locks. If the hole in your door is a true 3-1/2" BS, & 2-1/8" diameter, you'll have to shave a little wood to accomodate a new lock with a
2-3/4" BS latch, and see if the rose of the new lock covers the now oversized hole. If it doesn't quite cover it, a so-called "goof-ring" is available which will increase the diameter of coverage over the hole...your local locksmith will usually have a selection of "goof rings"
If, as GlobalLocky mentioned, you have a "rabbetted" door,(the door edge is "stepped" about 1/2") see if the latch itself is also stepped...this type of latch is becoming harder to find , at least in these parts.
2-3/4" BS latch, and see if the rose of the new lock covers the now oversized hole. If it doesn't quite cover it, a so-called "goof-ring" is available which will increase the diameter of coverage over the hole...your local locksmith will usually have a selection of "goof rings"
If, as GlobalLocky mentioned, you have a "rabbetted" door,(the door edge is "stepped" about 1/2") see if the latch itself is also stepped...this type of latch is becoming harder to find , at least in these parts.
rstripe
02-12-09, 05:49 PM
Oops! I re-read my post. I meant to say try a 3-3/4" backset latch, so you'll only need to carve 1/4" to make the lock fit.