Deadbolt Installation Done Right
We add a deadbolt to doors that only have a knob lock for real security.
- Insured & Vetted
- Mon-Thu & Sun 7:00AM-10:00PM, Fri 7:00AM-4:30PM
- Delaware + nearby PA
Your knob lock isn't enough - here's why
If any of these describe what you're dealing with right now, this is the service you need. Call with your situation and location - we'll confirm we can help before sending anyone out.
Your Door Only Has a Knob Lock
Knob locks are designed for privacy, not security. They can be shimmed with a credit card, kicked in with one good hit, or bypassed with basic tools. A deadbolt throws a solid steel bolt into the frame that actually resists force.
The Strike Plate Has Tiny Screws
Most doors come with strike plates held by half-inch screws that only grip the door trim - not the wall structure. One kick and they rip right out. We use 3-inch screws that anchor into the wall studs behind the trim.
You Have a Sliding Glass Door Nearby
Doors near glass panels are vulnerable because someone can break the glass and reach the thumb-turn. For these doors, we install double-cylinder deadbolts that require a key from both sides.
Your Neighborhood Has Had Break-Ins
When break-ins happen nearby, a deadbolt is the single most effective upgrade you can make. Most burglars move on when they see a door with a deadbolt because it takes too long to force.
Describe your situation - we'll confirm the right service and come prepared.
Call (302) 551-2550Dealing with this right now? We can usually get someone to you today.
(302) 551-2550How we add a deadbolt to your door
- 1
Tell Us About Your Door
What material is it - wood, metal, or fiberglass? Does it already have a deadbolt hole or do we need to drill fresh? What finish matches your existing hardware?
- 2
We Measure and Plan the Placement
On site, we check your door thickness, find the right height (usually 6-8 inches above the knob), and make sure the frame behind the strike area has solid wood or studs to anchor into.
- 3
You Pick Your Hardware
We show you options - Grade 1 or Grade 2, single or double cylinder, matching finishes. You choose what fits your door and security needs, then we handle the installation.
- 4
We Drill and Install
Using professional templates, we bore a clean hole through the door and cut the strike pocket in the frame. The deadbolt is mounted, the strike plate is anchored with long screws, and everything sits flush.
Tested before handoff What a deadbolt actually does for your security
A Knob Lock Takes Seconds to Bypass
Credit cards, shims, and a single kick can defeat a knob lock. A deadbolt throws a 1-inch solid steel bolt into the frame - it can't be shimmed and it takes serious force to break through.
3-Inch Screws Change Everything
The factory screws in most strike plates are a joke - they only grip the trim. Our 3-inch screws reach the wall studs, which means the failure point moves from flimsy trim to your house's actual structure.
Smooth Operation - No Forcing Required
A properly installed deadbolt turns with one finger. If you have to lift the door or slam it to get the bolt in, the installation is wrong. We align everything so it glides.
Matches Your Existing Hardware
We carry deadbolts in all common finishes - satin nickel, matte black, aged bronze, polished brass. Your new deadbolt looks like it was always part of the door, not an afterthought.
Your Door Only Has a Knob Lock? That's Not Enough
A knob lock provides privacy, not security. It can be bypassed with a credit card, shimmed with a simple tool, or kicked in with one solid hit. Kwikey Locksmith adds deadbolts to doors across Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania - drilling a clean hole, installing quality hardware, and anchoring the strike plate into your wall studs so your door actually resists force.
Why the Strike Plate Matters More Than the Lock
Most break-ins don't defeat the lock - they rip the strike plate out of the frame. Factory-installed plates use tiny screws that only grip the decorative trim. We replace them with heavy-duty plates and 3-inch screws that reach the structural studs behind the trim. This single upgrade dramatically increases your door's resistance to being kicked in.
Professional Drilling for a Clean, Lasting Install
Adding a deadbolt means drilling a 2-1/8 inch hole through your door and cutting a strike pocket in the frame. Done wrong, you get a cracked door, a misaligned bolt, and a lock you have to force every time. We use professional templates and sharp bits to get clean, centered holes that result in smooth operation for years to come.
Deadbolt Installation service area
We provide deadbolt installation across Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania. Find your city or call with your address.
Deadbolt Installation FAQ
These are the questions people ask most before booking this service. If yours isn't here, call us - we'll answer it directly.
What's the difference between Grade 1 and Grade 2?
Grade 1 is commercial-strength - maximum force resistance and built for heavy daily use. Grade 2 is high-quality residential. For most homes, Grade 2 provides excellent security. We'll recommend based on your situation.
Can you add a deadbolt to a metal door?
Yes. Metal doors require different drill bits and sometimes reinforcement sleeves, but we have the tools for it. The end result is just as secure as on a wood door.
Single-cylinder or double-cylinder - which should I get?
Single-cylinder (thumb-turn inside) is best for most doors - easy to exit in an emergency. Double-cylinder (key both sides) is for doors near glass where someone could break the glass and reach the thumb-turn.
Do I need to replace my knob lock too?
No. The deadbolt installs above your existing knob - usually 6-8 inches higher. Your knob stays in place and the deadbolt adds the security layer it was missing.
Can the new deadbolt use the same key as my knob lock?
In many cases, yes. If your knob is the same brand, we can often key the deadbolt to match so you only carry one key. We'll let you know if it's possible with your specific hardware.
Want a deadbolt added to your door?
Tell us what kind of door you have (wood, metal, or fiberglass) and whether it currently has any deadbolt hole. We'll confirm availability and show you hardware options that fit your door and security needs.