Adding a lock to a bathroom door is a manageable DIY project. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Prepare and Measure
- Determine the Lock Type: Choose a suitable bathroom lock, commonly a privacy bolt or a mortise lock. Privacy bolts are easier to install, while mortise locks offer enhanced security.
- Gather Tools: You'll need a measuring tape, pencil, drill with various drill bits, chisel, hammer, screwdriver, and possibly a hole saw.
- Mark Lock Position: Measure and mark the desired location for the lock on the door's edge. The standard height is usually between 36 and 40 inches from the floor.
2. Create Openings for the Lock Mechanism
- Drill for the Lock Body (if applicable): If installing a mortise lock, use a drill and potentially a chisel to create a recess in the door's edge that accommodates the lock body. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for precise dimensions. For a privacy bolt, you'll mainly need to drill a hole for the bolt to extend into.
- Drill for the Latch Bolt: Drill a hole through the door's edge, centered on your marked position, to house the latch bolt mechanism. Choose a drill bit size appropriate for the bolt's diameter.
3. Prepare for the Latch Plate
- Outline the Latch Plate: Place the latch plate on the door edge, aligning it with the drilled hole. Trace the outline of the plate with a pencil.
- Chisel the Mortise: Carefully chisel out the wood within the traced outline to create a recess that allows the latch plate to sit flush with the door's edge.
4. Drill Handle and Thumbturn Holes
- Mark Hole Locations: Based on the lock's instructions, mark the positions for the handle and thumbturn (or emergency release) on both sides of the door.
- Drill Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes through the door at the marked locations.
- Drill Main Holes: Use a hole saw or appropriately sized drill bit to create the larger holes for the handle and thumbturn. Be careful to drill straight to avoid misalignment.
5. Install the Lock
- Insert the Latch Bolt: Slide the latch bolt mechanism into the hole on the door's edge. Secure it with screws using the prepared latch plate.
- Attach the Handle and Thumbturn: Insert the handle and thumbturn through the holes and connect them to the latch bolt mechanism according to the manufacturer's instructions. Tighten any necessary screws.
- Test the Mechanism: Ensure the lock functions smoothly, with the latch bolt extending and retracting properly.
6. Install the Strike Plate
- Mark the Strike Plate Position: Close the door and mark the location on the door frame where the latch bolt hits. Extend the latch bolt to ensure it aligns correctly with your mark.
- Outline the Strike Plate: Position the strike plate on the door frame, aligning it with the marked location. Trace the outline of the plate.
- Chisel the Mortise: Chisel out the wood within the traced outline to create a recess for the strike plate to sit flush with the door frame.
- Drill a Hole for the Bolt: Drill a hole in the center of the strike plate recess deep enough to accommodate the fully extended latch bolt.
- Secure the Strike Plate: Screw the strike plate into the door frame.
- Test the Lock: Close the door and test the lock thoroughly to ensure it engages smoothly with the strike plate and that the door closes securely.
