Deadbolt Installation Service

When You Need Professional Deadbolt Installation

A deadbolt is your home’s primary defense against forced entry. While door handle locks can be bypassed in seconds, properly installed deadbolts resist picking, bumping, drilling, and kick-in attempts that defeat most break-ins.

You need deadbolt installation service when:

Moving into a new home - Previous owners and their contractors, real estate agents, and house cleaners may still have keys. Installing new deadbolts or rekeying existing ones eliminates unknown key holders and lets you start fresh with controlled access.

Upgrading from builder-grade locks - Most new Austin homes come with Grade 3 deadbolts that meet minimum code requirements but provide minimal security. Upgrading to Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolts dramatically improves forced entry resistance, especially important in neighborhoods experiencing property crime.

After a break-in or attempted entry - If someone forced or tried to force your door, the lock, strike, and door frame likely sustained damage that compromises security even after repair. Fresh installation with reinforced strikes and properly aligned hardware restores full protection.

Installing deadbolts on doors without them - Interior doors converted to exterior access (garage to house, new basement entry, patio door upgrades) need deadbolts for security. We’ll properly prepare the door and frame for secure, long-lasting installation.

Switching to smart locks - If you want keyless entry with codes, smartphone control, remote locking, or integration with Ring/Nest/Alexa, we’ll install smart deadbolts with full programming and setup so you’re confidently using all features from day one.

Door or frame replacement - New doors often need new deadbolts, and relocated doors might need deadbolt holes drilled in new positions. We’ll handle the complete installation to match your new door configuration.

Damaged or worn existing deadbolts - Keys turning hard, deadbolts not extending fully, loose cylinders, or visible damage all signal that replacement and fresh installation will restore smooth, reliable operation and full security.

Our Deadbolt Installation Process

We follow a systematic 7-step process that ensures proper alignment, maximum security, and smooth operation for the lifetime of your deadbolt.

1. Security Assessment & Hardware Selection

We start by examining your door, frame, and current security to recommend the right deadbolt for your specific situation.

Door evaluation: We check door material (wood, metal, fiberglass), thickness (standard 1-3/8” to 1-3/4”, or custom thickness), condition (solid core recommended, hollow core won’t hold deadbolt securely), and backset distance (2-3/8” standard, 2-3/4” for some doors).

Frame assessment: We verify frame material (wood, metal, composite), strength (solid jamb required for security), and strike area condition. Weak or damaged frames get reinforcement recommendations before installation to prevent kick-in regardless of deadbolt quality.

Security needs: We consider your neighborhood crime rates, home value, insurance requirements, and personal security concerns to recommend appropriate grade and features. High-value homes in areas with property crime benefit from Grade 1 deadbolts with hardened pins and bump-resistant cylinders.

Hardware selection: We show you available options including grade levels (1/2/3), finish options (polished brass, satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, matte black, etc.), cylinder types (single/double), and smart features (keypad, Bluetooth, WiFi). We stock major brands including Schlage, Kwikset, Yale, and Weiser for immediate installation.

2. Door Preparation & Hole Drilling

For new installations without existing deadbolt holes, we precision-drill through your door using templates that ensure perfect alignment.

Precise measurements: Using a template matched to your specific deadbolt model, we mark exact positions for the face bore (where the cylinder goes) and edge bore (where the bolt extends). Measurements account for door thickness, backset distance, and strike alignment with the frame.

Face bore drilling: We drill through the door face perpendicular to the surface, creating a clean hole (typically 2-1/8” diameter) for the lock cylinder. The hole must be perfectly perpendicular - angled drilling causes binding and premature wear.

Edge bore drilling: We drill through the door edge into the face bore, creating the channel for the deadbolt to extend and retract. This hole (typically 1” diameter) must align exactly with the face bore or the bolt will bind during operation.

Mortise cutting: We use a chisel and template to cut a shallow recess in the door edge where the latch plate sits flush with the door surface. Proper depth ensures the plate doesn’t interfere with door closing while sitting securely in the mortise.

Cleanup: We vacuum all wood shavings and metal filings from the drilling process, especially important inside the bolt channel where debris can jam the mechanism.

3. Strike Plate Installation & Frame Reinforcement

The strike plate and frame are where most forced entries succeed - a strong deadbolt is useless if the frame gives way. We reinforce this critical component.

Strike mortise cutting: In the door frame jamb, we cut a mortise for the strike plate that aligns perfectly with the deadbolt hole. The strike box (the hole the bolt enters) must be deep enough that the bolt fully extends into the frame.

Box strike installation: We install a heavy-duty strike box - a metal housing that extends 2-3” deep into the frame, surrounding the deadbolt with metal instead of just wood. This prevents the frame from splitting when the bolt is forced, distributing impact across a larger area.

Long screw reinforcement: Instead of the 3/4” screws that come with most deadbolts, we use 3” screws that penetrate through the frame jamb and into the wall studs behind. This anchors the strike to structural components instead of just the thin jamb, making kick-in dramatically more difficult.

Optional frame reinforcement: For maximum security, we can add a Door Jamb Armor or similar reinforcement plate (additional cost $40-$60). This is a steel plate that covers the strike area and distributes impact forces across 12-18” of the frame instead of just the 3” strike area.

Strike alignment verification: We test the deadbolt extension to verify the bolt enters the strike smoothly without catching, binding, or forcing. Perfect alignment ensures smooth daily operation and prevents the bolt from bending or loosening over time from friction.

4. Deadbolt Assembly & Installation

With the door and frame prepared, we assemble and install the deadbolt mechanism.

Bolt insertion: The deadbolt bolt assembly slides into the edge bore from inside the door, with the latch plate fitting into the mortise we cut. We secure this with the provided screws, making sure it sits perfectly flush and doesn’t interfere with the door edge.

Cylinder installation: The exterior cylinder (key side) and interior assembly (thumb turn or second cylinder) sandwich the door, connecting through the bolt mechanism. We ensure the cylinder sits at the correct depth - too shallow and the key won’t fully insert; too deep and it protrudes awkwardly.

Component fastening: We connect the interior and exterior components with the manufacturer’s through-bolts, torquing them to proper tightness. Over-tightening can bind the mechanism; under-tightening allows the lock to loosen over time.

Smart lock electronics: For smart deadbolts, we install the battery pack, connect the electronic motor to the manual bolt mechanism, calibrate the auto-lock feature, and verify the motor has enough power to throw the bolt reliably.

5. Smart Features Programming & Setup

If you’re installing a smart deadbolt, we configure all electronic features and teach you to use them confidently.

Pairing with your phone: We walk through the manufacturer’s app installation, account creation, and Bluetooth/WiFi pairing. We verify your phone can communicate with the lock reliably and troubleshoot any connection issues.

Access code programming: We help you create a master code (typically 4-8 digits) that you’ll use regularly, plus additional codes for family members, house cleaners, dog walkers, or guests. We explain how to create temporary codes that expire automatically and delete codes when they’re no longer needed.

Smart home integration: If you use Ring, Nest, SmartThings, Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, or Google Home, we connect your deadbolt to your smart home ecosystem so you can control it through your existing system.

Feature demonstration: We show you how to lock/unlock remotely, check lock status, view entry logs (who unlocked when), enable auto-lock after X seconds, and adjust sensitivity settings. We make sure you’re comfortable with every feature before we leave.

Backup key provision: Even with smart locks, we provide backup physical keys for emergencies when batteries die or electronics fail. We recommend keeping one hidden outside and one with a trusted neighbor or family member.

6. Operation Testing & Adjustment

We thoroughly test every aspect of the installation to ensure smooth operation and maximum security.

Key operation testing: We verify the key turns smoothly with no binding, catches, or resistance. Keys should insert and turn easily with minimal force - difficulty indicates misalignment or internal issues that will worsen over time.

Bolt extension testing: We cycle the deadbolt 15-20 times to verify the bolt extends and retracts smoothly, fully extends to the proper depth (1” minimum for security), and aligns perfectly with the strike without catching.

Door alignment check: We verify the deadbolt can be thrown while the door is closed without forcing or bending the bolt. If the deadbolt binds when engaged, the door and frame may need hinge adjustment or shim installation.

Security verification: We confirm the bolt fully extends into the strike box, the cylinder doesn’t spin freely (preventing forced rotation attack), and there’s no play or looseness in any components.

Smart function testing: For electronic deadbolts, we test code entry, Bluetooth unlocking, auto-lock timing, low battery warnings, and emergency key override to ensure all features work correctly.

Final adjustments: If we detect any binding, looseness, misalignment, or operational issues during testing, we make immediate corrections - whether that’s slight hole adjustment, strike plate repositioning, or component replacement.

7. Customer Education & Maintenance Guidance

We don’t just install and leave - we make sure you understand how to use and maintain your new deadbolt for maximum lifespan and security.

Operation demonstration: We show you (and any household members present) how to properly use the deadbolt, including key insertion angle, proper turning technique for smooth operation, and thumb turn usage.

Key copying guidance: We explain where to get keys copied (hardware stores, locksmith shops, key kiosks) and how many spares you should have (recommend 2-3 extras). For restricted keyways, we explain the copy-protection system and how to get authorized keys.

Maintenance instructions: We recommend lubricating the keyway and bolt mechanism with graphite powder or Teflon spray (never oil-based lubricants that attract dirt) every 6-12 months, checking screws periodically for tightness, and cleaning the keyway if keys start to stick.

Battery replacement: For smart deadbolts, we explain how often to replace batteries (typically every 6-12 months or when you get low battery warnings), which batteries to use (brand-name alkaline recommended), and how to change them without losing programming.

Warranty information: We provide documentation on manufacturer warranties (typically 1-5 years) and our installation workmanship guarantee. We explain what’s covered and how to get warranty service if needed.

Security best practices: We remind you to use the deadbolt every time you leave (even for short trips), keep spare keys secured (not under mats or in obvious hiding spots), change access codes after contractors or house-sitters no longer need access, and monitor smart lock entry logs periodically.

Deadbolt Types & Options We Install

Our inventory covers the full range of residential deadbolt options for every security need and budget.

Standard Single Cylinder Deadbolts

Grade 2 residential deadbolts ($95-$130 installed) - The sweet spot for most Austin homes. Excellent security meeting or exceeding most insurance requirements, durable hardware with 400,000+ cycle life, available in all popular finishes, and backed by manufacturer warranty. Brands like Schlage B60 and Kwikset 980 offer proven reliability at this grade.

Grade 1 commercial deadbolts ($130-$150 installed) - Maximum security for high-value homes or high-crime areas. Hardened steel construction resists drilling and prying, pick-resistant pins defeat lock picking, 800,000+ cycle life, and meets commercial building codes. The Schlage B660 and Mul-T-Lock Cronus are popular Grade 1 choices providing residential users with commercial-level protection.

Grade 3 basic deadbolts ($75-$95 installed) - Minimum security suitable only for low-risk applications like interior conversions, low-crime areas, or temporary installations. We generally don’t recommend Grade 3 for primary exterior doors in Austin due to increased property crime rates in many neighborhoods.

Double Cylinder Deadbolts

High-security double cylinder ($140-$160 installed) - Requires keys on both sides, eliminating thumb turn access. Use only on doors with glass panels where intruders could break glass and reach through to a thumb turn. Available in Grade 1 and Grade 2 options.

Important safety note: Double cylinder deadbolts create fire egress concerns because you need a key to exit in emergencies. Austin fire codes may restrict their use or require keeping keys accessible near the door. We recommend alternatives like window security film or high-mounted deadbolts instead of double cylinders whenever possible.

Smart Deadbolts with Keyless Entry

Schlage Encode WiFi ($250-$300 installed) - Built-in WiFi eliminates the need for separate bridge/hub. Remote access from anywhere, voice control with Alexa, encrypted communication, integrated alarm, and battery backup for power outages. Popular with homeowners who want full remote control without additional hardware.

Kwikset SmartCode ($140-$180 installed) - Best value in smart deadbolts. Simple keypad entry without smartphone required, Zigbee/Z-Wave models for SmartThings/Ring integration, SmartKey rekeyable cylinder (rekey yourself in seconds), and long battery life. Great for those who primarily want keyless entry and don’t need extensive smart features.

Yale Assure Lock ($180-$220 installed) - Sleek touchscreen design with no visible keyhole (tamper-proof), multiple connectivity options (WiFi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave, Zigbee), Auto-Lock automatically engages after X seconds, DoorSense monitors whether door is open or closed, and supports up to 25 access codes. Popular with homeowners who prioritize aesthetics and want hidden backup keyway (keyed version available).

August Smart Lock Pro ($230-$280 installed) - Unique retrofit design installs over your existing deadbolt on the interior side only, preserving your exterior hardware and keys. Remote access, auto-unlock when you approach with phone, built-in WiFi bridge, activity feed shows who came and went, and integrates with Ring, Nest, Airbnb, and most smart home platforms. Perfect for renters or those who want to keep existing exterior hardware matching.

High-Security & Specialty Deadbolts

Mul-T-Lock Cronus ($200-$250 installed) - Top-tier security with patented key control (keys can only be copied with authorization card), pick/drill/bump resistant design, hardened steel construction, and meets UL 437 high-security standards. Recommended for high-value homes, areas with significant crime, or insurance requirements for premium properties.

Medeco Maxum ($220-$275 installed) - Bank-level security with rotating pin tumbler system that’s virtually pick-proof, restricted keyway with documented key control, drill-resistant hardened inserts, and meets UL 437 specifications. Used in commercial settings and high-security residential applications.

Schlage SecureKey ($160-$200 installed) - Bump-proof rekeyable deadbolt that you can rekey yourself in seconds without removing the lock from the door. Great for landlords, homeowners who frequently change access, or those who want ultimate control over who has keys.

Pricing & Service Options

Our transparent pricing structure ensures you know exactly what to expect before we begin work.

Standard Installation Pricing

Basic replacement installation: $95-$130 - Replacing existing deadbolt with same hole size and configuration. Includes standard Grade 2 deadbolt, installation labor, testing, and 2-3 keys. Takes 15-25 minutes per door. Same-day service available.

New deadbolt installation: $120-$150 - Installing deadbolt on door without existing deadbolt holes. Includes drilling through door face and edge, cutting strike mortise, reinforced strike installation, standard Grade 2 deadbolt, and complete testing. Takes 30-45 minutes per door.

Smart deadbolt installation: $130-$175 - Installing electronic deadbolt with keyless entry features. Includes standard installation plus programming, smartphone pairing, access code setup, smart home integration, and feature training. Hardware cost additional ($140-$300 depending on model). Takes 40-60 minutes per door.

Grade 1 security deadbolt installation: $130-$150 - Installing commercial-grade maximum security deadbolt. Includes high-security hardware, reinforced strike with long screws, installation, and testing. Hardware typically $80-$120 more than Grade 2 deadbolts.

Add-On Services & Options

Keying alike (per additional lock beyond first): $15-$25 - Matching multiple deadbolts to operate with one key. Requires same-brand locks. Can rekey existing locks to match new installation or key all new locks together from the start.

High-security deadbolt upgrade: +$80-$150 - Upgrading to Mul-T-Lock, Medeco, or similar high-security deadbolt with pick/bump/drill resistance and key control. Includes restricted keyway and authorization card for controlled key copying.

Frame reinforcement installation: $40-$70 per door - Installing Door Jamb Armor or similar steel reinforcement plates that extend impact resistance beyond the standard strike area. Highly recommended for exterior doors in high-crime areas or homes with previous break-in attempts.

Double cylinder deadbolt: +$20-$30 - Upgrading to double cylinder configuration requiring key on both sides. Additional cost due to second keyed cylinder and installation complexity.

Multiple door discounts - Installing deadbolts on multiple doors during the same visit receives efficiency pricing: 2 doors (save 10%), 3 doors (save 15%), 4+ doors (save 20%). Savings apply to labor portion of installation.

Service Call & Timing

Same-day service available - Most deadbolt installations can be scheduled for same-day service or within 24 hours of your call, subject to technician availability and hardware availability.

No trip charge for scheduled appointments - Standard service calls for pre-scheduled deadbolt installations include no separate trip charge; the installation price is all-inclusive.

Emergency/after-hours service: +$50-$75 - Deadbolt installations outside normal business hours (evenings, weekends, holidays) include additional service fee for technician availability.

Free estimates - We provide free estimates for all deadbolt installation projects. For complex jobs or multiple doors, we can visit your property to assess the specific requirements and provide accurate pricing before committing to the work.

Why Professional Installation Matters

While some homeowners attempt DIY deadbolt installation, professional installation provides advantages that DIY can’t match.

Alignment precision prevents premature failure - Misaligned holes cause the bolt to bind against the strike or rub against the door, wearing the mechanism quickly. Even 1/16” misalignment leads to increased force needed to engage the deadbolt, faster wear on internal components, and eventual lock failure requiring replacement. Our templates and experience ensure perfect alignment every time.

Proper door preparation protects your investment - Incorrect hole diameter, angled drilling, or improper depth damages doors beyond simple repair. Filling and re-drilling severely weakened doors costs more than professional installation would have. We use correct bits, drilling techniques, and depth gauges to prepare doors correctly the first time.

Frame reinforcement makes security meaningful - The strongest deadbolt is useless if the frame gives way. Most DIY installations skip critical reinforcement steps like box strikes, 3” screws into studs, or jamb armor because these require understanding structural components behind the frame. We know where studs are, how to anchor to them properly, and when additional reinforcement is necessary.

Hardware selection matches your actual needs - Most homeowners don’t know the difference between Grade 1, 2, and 3 deadbolts, whether their door with glass panels needs double cylinder locks, or which smart deadbolt works with their phone and smart home system. We’ll assess your specific situation and recommend hardware that matches your security requirements, budget, and preferences.

Smart lock setup prevents frustration - Setting up smart deadbolts involves pairing Bluetooth or WiFi, creating access codes, connecting to smart home hubs, calibrating auto-lock timing, and troubleshooting connectivity issues. Many DIY attempts result in partially-working installations where remote features don’t function or codes won’t program correctly. We handle the complete setup and ensure you’re confidently using all features.

Code compliance and safety - Some deadbolt installations involve code requirements we understand from years of experience - double cylinder restrictions for fire egress, proper strike reinforcement in multi-family buildings, ADA compliance for accessible units, or insurance requirements for specific security grades. We ensure your installation meets all applicable codes and requirements.

Time savings and convenience - Most homeowners underestimate DIY installation time. What looks like a 30-minute job becomes 2-3 hours dealing with misaligned holes, searching for the right tools, making hardware store trips for forgotten items, or fixing mistakes. We bring all necessary tools, templates, hardware options, and expertise to complete installations efficiently.

Workmanship warranty - Our installations include workmanship warranty that covers any installation-related issues. If the deadbolt isn’t operating smoothly, the strike loosens, or alignment issues develop, we’ll return to correct the installation at no charge. DIY installations have no such guarantee.

Coverage Area - Greater Austin Metro

We provide professional deadbolt installation service throughout the Austin metropolitan area.

Primary service area: Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Georgetown, Leander, Lakeway, Bee Cave, West Lake Hills, Rollingwood, Sunset Valley, Jollyville, Wells Branch, and Westlake.

Extended service area: Hutto, Taylor, Manor, Elgin, Bastrop, Dripping Springs, Wimberley, Kyle, Buda, and surrounding communities.

Same-day service availability - Most locations within our primary service area qualify for same-day deadbolt installation, subject to technician availability and scheduling. Call before noon for highest likelihood of same-day service.

Travel fees may apply - Locations outside our primary service area may include modest travel fees ($20-$40) to cover extended drive time. We’ll let you know if your location includes travel fees when you call.

Common Questions About Deadbolt Installation

What makes a deadbolt secure?

Deadbolt security comes from multiple factors working together. The bolt extends 1” (minimum) into the door frame rather than the 1/2” of standard locks, making it harder to pry the door open. The bolt is solid metal (not spring-loaded like standard locks), preventing shimming or credit card bypass. Grade 1 and Grade 2 deadbolts resist drilling, picking, and bumping through hardened steel construction and anti-pick pins.

But the deadbolt is only as secure as its installation. Weak frames, short screws (standard 3/4” screws only anchor to the thin jamb), or misaligned strikes defeat even the best deadbolt. That’s why we focus on frame reinforcement and proper installation as much as hardware selection.

Can I install a deadbolt on an interior door?

Yes, though interior doors rarely need deadbolt-level security. Deadbolt installation makes sense for interior doors when: Converting interior door to exterior access (garage entry, basement exterior door), creating privacy in home office or bedroom (double cylinder with key control), securing storage rooms or safes areas within the home, or landlord securing specific areas in shared housing situations.

For general bedroom or bathroom privacy, standard privacy locks (push-button locks with emergency release) are more appropriate and code-compliant because they allow emergency access.

Do smart deadbolts work when WiFi is out?

Most smart deadbolts work locally even without internet or WiFi. Bluetooth-based models (Kwikset, Yale) pair directly with your phone via Bluetooth, working regardless of WiFi or internet status. Keypad-based models work entirely standalone - codes unlock the door without any connectivity.

What you lose without WiFi/internet: Remote access from outside Bluetooth range (can’t unlock from work or while traveling), cloud-based features like entry logs accessible from anywhere, integration with cloud-based smart home systems (Ring, Nest), notifications sent to your phone when someone unlocks, and voice control through Alexa/Google Home.

Local features that still work: Phone unlock via Bluetooth when you’re within 40 feet, access code entry on the keypad, physical key override, auto-lock after closing, and DoorSense (on Yale models).

How often should deadbolts be replaced?

Quality deadbolts last 10-20+ years with proper maintenance, but several situations warrant replacement before failure:

Keys worn or difficult to insert (worn tumblers or damaged keyway), bolt doesn’t extend smoothly or fully (internal wear or misalignment), visible damage or rust on exterior components (compromised weather sealing), after break-in or forced entry attempt (weakened components even if functional), upgrading security for home value increase or crime rate changes, or switching to smart deadbolt for keyless convenience.

Regular maintenance extends deadbolt life: lubricate keyway with graphite every 6-12 months, check and tighten mounting screws annually, clean weather seals and apply protectant, and replace smart lock batteries proactively (don’t wait for low battery warning).

Can you match deadbolts to my existing door hardware?

Yes, we can match finishes across your door hardware for consistent appearance. Popular finishes include polished brass (shiny gold, traditional look), satin nickel (brushed silver, modern look), oil-rubbed bronze (dark brown with black undertones, rustic/traditional), matte black (contemporary sleek appearance), and antique brass (aged gold appearance).

Most deadbolt manufacturers (Schlage, Kwikset, Yale) offer products in all standard finishes. We can match your existing hardware finish when installing new deadbolts, ensuring visual consistency across knobs, deadbolts, and door accessories.

For highest durability, choose physical vapor deposition (PVD) finishes that resist scratching and weather damage better than standard plated finishes. These cost $10-$20 more but maintain appearance longer, especially on high-use doors.

Will installing a deadbolt damage my door?

Proper professional installation doesn’t damage your door. We use precise templates, correct-size bits, and controlled drilling techniques that create clean holes without splintering, cracking, or damaging the door beyond the necessary openings.

DIY installations risk: Angled holes from freehand drilling without guides, oversized holes from incorrect bit sizes or wandering bits, splintered edges from drilling too fast or without backer boards, and cracked doors from excessive force or brittle materials.

If your door has special considerations (metal, fiberglass, hollow core, antique wood, custom finish), inform us when scheduling. We’ll bring specialized tools and techniques for these materials to prevent damage during installation.

The only permanent change is the holes drilled through the door. If you later want to remove the deadbolt and fill the holes, a carpenter can plug and refinish the areas to restore the door’s original appearance (additional cost for restoration work).