How to Disassemble a Deadbolt Lock

A deadbolt lock is a common item used to keep a home or valuables locked up and safe. They are hard for an intruder to pick and can be a very useful lock to have if you need extra peace of mind. Should you lose the key to your deadbolt you may need to replace the deadbolt lock. This article will guide you through the steps and show you how to remove a deadbolt lock for replacement.  First, you are going to need a few things from your toolbox.

Materials Needed:

• Protective gloves
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Flat head screwdriver

You will need to wear the gloves as a simple safety precaution, after all if you get hurt while disassembling a deadbolt lock you will not be able to finish the job.

Step 1: Evaluation

Not all deadbolt locks are the same look at the door lock from both sides and determine your first move.  Check the location of the screws holding the deadbolt lock in place. In most cases they will be located inside the home.

Step 2: Unscrew

You will need your screwdrivers during this step. Locate the screws and make sure that the deadbolt lock is in the unlocked position. Unscrew the deadbolt and place the screws to the side.  

Step 3: Excess Pieces

It is very likely that you will find more pieces that need to be unscrewed once you have opened up your deadbolt lock during step 1. Unscrew them, place them to the side and remove any adapters or cylinders that are holding the deadbolt lock in place.  

Step 4: Final Removal

Gently pull apart the deadbolt lock while holding on to both sides. Watch for any falling pieces that you may have neglected in the first 3 steps. Place the pieces to the side and you are done.

Now you are ready to place a new deadbolt lock into your door or cover the hole if you do not wish to replace it.

Tips:

Some deadbolt locks will have metal plates over the top of the inside screws. Use your gloves and a flat head screwdriver to remove the plates and then unscrew the screw underneath.

Most deadbolt locks will have oil or grease on the inside of the deadbolt, use gloves that you do not mind getting a little soiled.

Disassembling a deadbolt lock is a simple project. The most important part of the job it to watch that you are not letting any small pieces fall to the floor that would cause a choking hazard for small children and animals. Keep in mind that deadbolt locks vary in style and model and that the above steps may need to altered depending on the deadbolt lock itself. Congratulations, you are now a do-it-yourself kind of person. Follow these steps and it will be as easy as calling the handy man.