Doors and Windows - Deadbolt replacement- not part of my 'simple life' plan
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 : Deadbolt replacement- not part of my 'simple life' plan
06-11-01, 02:08 PM
Hi,
Please instruct me on how to replace a double-keyed (as in both sides) deadbolt with a standard one on my front door (steel). The trouble is with removing the original deadbolt. It does not have any screws, just what looks like headless pins. Do I have to drill these out to remove the deadbolt? I tried prying at them and now that I feel like a twit, I don't see how else it can be done short of dynamite. Let's not go there as I wouldn't want my next query to read "how do I replace the facade of my house?"! :)
Thanks so much!
Deborah Pouliot
(PS- that's simple life, not simple mind, but then again that really depends on who's mind I'm comparing mine to)
Please instruct me on how to replace a double-keyed (as in both sides) deadbolt with a standard one on my front door (steel). The trouble is with removing the original deadbolt. It does not have any screws, just what looks like headless pins. Do I have to drill these out to remove the deadbolt? I tried prying at them and now that I feel like a twit, I don't see how else it can be done short of dynamite. Let's not go there as I wouldn't want my next query to read "how do I replace the facade of my house?"! :)
Thanks so much!
Deborah Pouliot
(PS- that's simple life, not simple mind, but then again that really depends on who's mind I'm comparing mine to)
Trying2Help
06-11-01, 02:38 PM
The ones I have worked on either have a cover that pops off or twists off, the inside portion.
I would have to ask, why are you replacing it. Some states require you to have that type of deadbolt if there is a window within so many feet of the door. Reason being, if someone were to break the window they would than be able to reach around and unlock the door without a key.?!.?!
To keep in line with the code, we just had a extra key made and leave it in the lock. It's just like having the other type without the hassle of changing it out.
If you decide to change the dead bolt out, you may want to take the new one to a locksmith and have him rekey it to match the door lock. This prevents fumbling with two keys trying to get in the door.
Good luck....
I would have to ask, why are you replacing it. Some states require you to have that type of deadbolt if there is a window within so many feet of the door. Reason being, if someone were to break the window they would than be able to reach around and unlock the door without a key.?!.?!
To keep in line with the code, we just had a extra key made and leave it in the lock. It's just like having the other type without the hassle of changing it out.
If you decide to change the dead bolt out, you may want to take the new one to a locksmith and have him rekey it to match the door lock. This prevents fumbling with two keys trying to get in the door.
Good luck....
06-12-01, 05:04 AM
I suppose you're right. The main reasons are because it looks old with the lacquer over the brass finish chipping off. Also, we were afraid we'd get locked in the house during an emergency situation with the key missing. There are no windows close to the door, above or on the sides. (Plus we have an alarm). But now that I think about it, if we change it, we'll have to change the door handle below it and that creates a domino effect of repairs and replacements to keep the 'new look' consistent. Thanks for your prompt reply! ;)
Deborah
Deborah
lefty
06-13-01, 12:49 AM
Not sure where you live, but the Uniform Fire Code doesn't allow double-keyed deadbolts like yours in a residence, just for the reason you mentioned -- you can't get out if there is an emergency! For about $40 you can get a lockset and deadbolt that are keyed alike (check Home Depot, or any big box store). Even if you have to resort to having a locksmith come out and change out the deadbolt, it may be the best $100 you ever spent. Insurance will replace a house if it burns, but a child or spouse??