Deadbolt Installation Washington DC

Need a deadbolt installed in Washington, DC? Mr. Locksmith DC installs deadbolts and door locks on doors that have never had one, including drilling the door, cutting the frame and fitting a reinforced strike. Lock installation starts at $75. Open every day, 6:30 a.m.–11:30 p.m. Call (202) 630-4979.

A knob lock on its own is not much security. The latch is short, spring-loaded and easy to force. A deadbolt is what actually holds an exterior door shut.

Plenty of DC doors still do not have one: back doors, basement entrances, side gates, and apartment doors that came with only a handle. Mr. Locksmith DC installs deadbolts and other locks from scratch, with the door and frame prepared properly.

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What a fresh installation involves

Installing a lock where there was none is more than screwing on hardware. A proper install has four parts:

Marking and drilling the door. A cross bore through the face and an edge bore for the bolt, at the correct backset and height.
Mortising the edge. The bolt faceplate is set flush so the door closes cleanly.
Preparing the frame. A hole deep enough for the bolt to extend fully, which is what makes it a dead bolt.
Fitting a reinforced strike. Long screws go through the jamb into the wall stud, not just the trim.

The last step matters most. In a kick-in, it is usually the frame that splits, not the lock that breaks.

Choosing a deadbolt

Single cylinder

Key outside, thumb-turn inside. This is the standard choice for homes and the one we fit most often.

Double cylinder

Key on both sides. People ask for these on doors with glass beside the lock. They can slow your exit in a fire, so we talk through safer alternatives first.

Security grade

Deadbolts are graded for strength and durability. A higher grade costs a little more and is worth it on a street-facing door.

High-security and keyless options

For restricted keys and pick resistance, see our guide to high-security locks. For a keypad or app-controlled deadbolt, see smart lock installation.

Other locks we install

Entry knobs, levers and handlesets on new or undrilled doors
Locks on back, basement and side doors that were never secured properly
Sliding door and patio door locks
Gate locks for rear yards and alley entrances
Interior privacy and keyed locks for bedrooms, home offices and storage rooms

New locks can be keyed to match your existing key, so you do not add another to the ring.

DC doors need a second look

Older rowhouse doors in Capitol Hill, Shaw and Petworth are often thinner than modern doors, slightly warped, or already fitted with a mortise lock that leaves little solid wood. Metal apartment doors need different tooling again.

We check the door and frame before recommending a lock. Sometimes the right answer is a wrap-around reinforcement plate, or a different position on the door.

Renters and condo owners: check your lease or building rules before adding a lock to a door.

New install or replacement?

This page is about adding a lock where there is none. If you already have a deadbolt and want a better or newer one, that is a simpler and cheaper job. See lock change and replacement.

If the existing lock is fine and you only want old keys to stop working, see lock rekey.

What deadbolt installation costs

Lock installation starts at $75, plus the lock itself if we supply it. A fresh install on a wood door sits near the bottom of the range. Metal doors, frame repairs and high-security hardware cost more.

You get a firm price before we drill anything. See all starting prices on our price list.

Deadbolt installation FAQs

How long does it take to install a deadbolt?

A fresh install on a wood door usually takes 45 minutes to an hour. Metal doors and doors that need frame work take longer.

Can you install a deadbolt I already bought?

Yes. Tell us the brand and model and we will confirm it suits your door.

Can the new deadbolt use my existing key?

Usually, if it is the same brand or keyway as your current lock. We key it to match during the install.

Is a deadbolt really necessary if I have a locking knob?

Yes, on any exterior door. A knob latch is short and spring-loaded. A deadbolt extends a solid bolt deep into the frame and cannot be slipped.

Can you install a deadbolt on a metal or fiberglass door?

Yes. They need different drill bits and care with the door skin, and we carry the tooling for both.

Do I need my landlord’s permission?

In most leases, yes, because it means drilling the door. Ask first, and expect to give the landlord a key.

Book a deadbolt installation

Mr. Locksmith DC installs deadbolts and door locks across Washington, DC every day from 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Call with your door type, or book a visit online.