DIY Armored Door Lock Buying Guide
How to choose an armored door lock.
In this article, we will help you correctly measure the necessary dimensions of an armored door lock so you can choose a new one with upgraded features or replace your existing lock.
*For more accurate measurements, remove the lock from your door.
STEP 1: Identify the lock brand.
- If your lock uses a double-bit (safe type) key, the lock brand will usually be printed on the key itself. If your key is not the original one, or if your lock uses a cylinder instead of a double-bit key, you will need to inspect the lock carefully. The brand may be written on the decorative escutcheons inside or outside the door, or possibly on one of the bolts (see image below).
You should also know how many turns are required to lock the door (usually 2 or 4 turns).
*If you cannot identify the lock brand anywhere, please contact us and we will be happy to assist you.
STEP 2: Measure the lock center dimension (A).
- The correct measurement for this dimension is from the center of the keyhole (for double-bit locks) or from the center of the cylinder (for cylinder locks) to the point where the bolts come out (with the bolts in the closed position), as shown in the image below.
STEP 3: Measure the handle center dimension (B).
- The correct measurement for this dimension is from the center of the keyhole (for double-bit locks) or from the center of the cylinder (for cylinder locks) to the center point where the handle spindle fits, as shown in the image below.
STEP 4: Check how many bolts (C) the lock has and their position.
- At this stage, you need to observe how many bolts your lock has and where the latch is positioned — above or below the fixed bolts. For example, a lock with 4 bolts and the latch above them, as shown in the image below.
Also check whether the spacing between the bolts is equal. In most cases, the bolts are evenly spaced, but some locks may have different distances between bolts.
The number of bolts on the new lock must match the old one, as well as the latch position!
STEP 5: Determine whether your lock is left-handed or right-handed.
- Identify the opening direction of the door so you know whether you need a left-handed or right-handed lock.
- From the outside of the house, check whether the hinges are on the left or right side while facing the door. The hinge position determines the door handing and therefore the lock handing. For example, if the hinges are on the right side when viewed from outside, then the door is right-handed and you need a right-handed lock.
- Another simple way to confirm the handing of the door and lock is to check which hand you use to open the door from the outside. For example, if you open the door with your right hand, then the door handing is right-handed, and you therefore need a right-handed lock as well.
