If you want to secure a door better, consider installing flush mount bolt lock. A flush mount bolt lock is a three-point lock system installed evenly with the door side.

A flush bolt lock uses two locks: one on the bottom and one on the top. The lock can be automatic, semi-automatic, or manual. You don't need advanced skills to install a flush bolt lock. Here are tips to install one of these locks.

Prepare to Work

For this project, you need:

• work gloves
• safety goggles
• pencil
• flat-blade screwdriver
• five-eighth chisel or router (advanced DIY people)
• wood mallet or lightweight hammer
• power or cordless drill and a 5/8 inch drill bit and screw-tip attachment
• door jig
• flush bolt lock set

Detach the door panel from the hinge pins using the hammer and screwdriver. Set the door on a door jig with the handle lock strike facing up.

Determine the best position for the bolts. A common placement is two feet above and two feet below the center of the door. You may be able to purchase a door with flush bolt holes to save time.

Mark and Cut Bolt Holes

Use the template included in the kit to mark the holes for the first bolt. If there is no template, set the bolt on the long edge, ensuring it aligns with the top/upper door end. Trace the outline of the bolt with a pencil or utility knife.

Start drilling from the bottom of the door. Bore one-eighth inch holes using a hammer and chisel, router, or drill where the bolt slides. Proceed to chisel or drill in one-eight inch increments until the end of the bolt it fits evenly with the upper surface and door edge.

Position the second bolt on the door end. Trace the outline of the bolt, and mark the holes. Drill holes as before in one-eighth of an inch increments until the bolt end is even with the door end.

Install the Bolts and Strike Plate

Insert the bolts, and secure them to the door panel using the provided screws. Fasten the door panel back on the door casing.

Press the locking rod upward. Close the door, and mark where the bolts hit on the top of the door jamb. Set the strike plate on the door jamb, and align the locking rods with the holes.

Trace the strike plate outline, and set it aside. Attach a 5/8 inch drill bit to the drill, and cut into the outline three fourths inch deep. Ensure the bolt rods fit the holes, then fasten the strike plate to the door jamb.

Test the door for proper operation. if you don't trust your skill or the lock gets stuck, contact a locksmith. For more information, contact local professionals like Scottsdale Locksmithing.