Deadbolt Installation in King of Prussia, PA

When a bolt never fully extends, it may be hitting the edge of the opening in the frame instead of reaching its locked position.

In King of Prussia, we install deadbolts on entry doors and set the strike so the bolt has a clear path into the frame. A door secured only by a knob lock relies on that one latch to hold it closed. A separate deadbolt gives you another locking point, with a piece that extends into the frame.

You can choose a single cylinder, which turns with a key from outside and a thumb turn from inside, or a double cylinder, which requires a key on either side. Near glass, the double cylinder makes it harder for someone to reach through and turn the lock, but you also need the key to get out. For homes in King of Prussia, we can also match the new lock to your existing keys when the lock designs are compatible.

We start by looking at the door, its existing knob lock, the frame, and the location of any nearby glass.

Before making an opening, we explain where the new deadbolt would sit and how the glass affects your choice of interior control. A single cylinder model has a thumb turn indoors, which is convenient to operate. If the glass breaks, though, that turn may be reachable through the opening. A double cylinder model uses a key on both sides, so there is no turn to reach, but you will need a key to unlock it from indoors.

We also check whether the new lock is compatible with your other locks, so you know if one key can operate them. Once you have chosen the hardware, we fit it to the door and set the strike in the frame. With the door closed, we check that the bolt enters the opening cleanly and extends fully without forcing it. We then operate the lock with you from both sides so you can feel how it works.

With the door open, turn the deadbolt and check whether the bolt reaches its full extension.

If it extends when open but stops short when closed, it may be hitting the frame or missing the strike opening. If it stops short in both positions, the mechanism itself may need attention. Don't force the turn or try to enlarge the opening yourself. Call us to check what is preventing full travel.

Wipe dirt from the outside of the lock with a soft cloth. For lubrication, follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid household oils that can collect dirt. If a key bends, sticks or becomes hard to turn, stop using it rather than forcing it. We can check whether the trouble comes from wear or a problem inside the mechanism. Keep spare keys in a secure place, not hidden near the entrance.