You’ve misplaced your deadbolt key, and you’re locked out of your house. What do you do? You could call a locksmith, but that could be expensive. Or, you could try to drill out the deadbolt yourself. It’s not as difficult as you might think, and it’s a lot cheaper than calling a locksmith. In this article, we will walk you through the steps on how to drill out a deadbolt.
Before you start, you’ll need to gather a few tools. You’ll need a drill, a drill bit, and a hammer. You’ll also need a safety glasses and gloves. Once you have your tools, you’re ready to get started. First, put on your safety glasses and gloves.
Next, you’ll need to find the center of the deadbolt. To do this, hold the drill up to the deadbolt and turn it on. Slowly move the drill around until you find the center of the deadbolt. Once you’ve found the center, mark it with a pencil. Then, turn off the drill and unplug it.
Tools and Materials Required
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials
The first step in drilling out a deadbolt is to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need:
- Drill: A variable-speed drill is ideal, as it will allow you to control the speed of the drill bit.
- Drill bits: You will need two different sized drill bits: a 1/8-inch bit and a 1/4-inch bit. The 1/8-inch bit will be used to drill the pilot hole, and the 1/4-inch bit will be used to drill the main hole.
- Safety glasses: It is important to wear safety glasses when drilling, as the drill bit can shatter or break and send pieces flying.
- Gloves: Gloves will protect your hands from the sharp edges of the drill bit and from the heat of the drill.
- Center punch: A center punch will help you to mark the center of the deadbolt, which will make it easier to drill the pilot hole.
- Hammer: A hammer will be used to strike the center punch.
- Lubricant: A lubricant, such as WD-40, will help to reduce friction and heat when drilling.
- Shop towel: A shop towel will be used to wipe away any debris or lubricant from the drill bit and the deadbolt.
- Flashlight: A flashlight will help you to see inside the door jamb when you are drilling the main hole.
Additional Materials
In addition to the tools and materials listed above, you may also want to gather the following items:
- Clamps: Clamps can be used to hold the drill in place, which can be helpful if you are drilling in an awkward position.
- Drill press: A drill press can be used to provide more precision when drilling the holes.
- Magnetic drill: A magnetic drill is a specialized tool that is designed for drilling holes in metal. If you are drilling through a metal door jamb, a magnetic drill may be the best option.
Helpful Tips
- When drilling the pilot hole, be sure to drill slowly and carefully. If you drill too quickly, you may break the drill bit.
- When drilling the main hole, be sure to use a lubricant. This will help to reduce friction and heat, which can prolong the life of the drill bit.
- If you are drilling through a metal door jamb, be sure to wear a respirator. Metal dust can be harmful if inhaled.
Safety Precautions
Wearing Safety Gear
Always don a pair of safety goggles or eyeglasses to shield your eyes from flying metal shavings and dust generated during the drilling process. Additionally, consider earplugs or protective headphones to minimize noise exposure, which can damage your hearing if prolonged.
Securing the Door
Stabilize the door to prevent it from moving while drilling. Wedge a sturdy object, such as a wooden block or piece of scrap wood, into the door frame where it meets the doorjamb to create a firm support. This will prevent the door from shifting and ensures precise drilling.
Choosing the Right Drill Bits
| Drill Bit Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| High-Speed Steel (HSS) | Suitable for drilling most metal materials, including deadbolts |
| Cobalt | More durable and lasts longer than HSS, ideal for hard or thick deadbolts |
| Carbide-Tipped | Strongest and most durable, but also more expensive; best for drilling through hardened steel |
Select a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the deadbolt to ensure it fits into the hole. This will prevent binding or jamming, making the drilling process smoother and safer.
Preparing the Lock Cylinder
1. **Assess the Lock Orientation**: Examine the lock to determine its orientation, which is typically either vertical or horizontal. If the keyhole is positioned vertically, the lock is likely vertical; if the keyhole is horizontal, the lock is likely horizontal.
2. **Remove the Strike Plate**: Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that secure the strike plate, which is the metal plate that receives the bolt when the door is locked. This will allow you to access the lock cylinder from the rear of the door.
3. **Center the Drill Bit**: Place a center punch on the center of the lock cylinder. Use a hammer to gently tap the center punch, creating a small indentation. This will help guide the drill bit and ensure a precise hole.
| **Step** | **Description** |
| 1 | Examine the lock to determine its orientation. |
| 2 | Remove the screws that secure the strike plate. |
| 3 | Place a center punch on the center of the lock cylinder and tap it with a hammer to create an indentation. |
Drilling Into the Lock Cylinder
Now that you have the correct drill bit, it’s time to start drilling. Place the drill bit into the chuck of the drill and tighten it securely. Position the drill bit over the center of the lock cylinder and begin drilling.
Drill slowly and carefully, applying light pressure. Avoid drilling too quickly, as this can damage the drill bit or the lock. Continue drilling until you have drilled through the lock cylinder and into the lock body. The depth of the hole will vary depending on the type of lock you are drilling.
Once you have drilled a hole through the lock cylinder, insert a small screwdriver or other tool into the hole and turn it to break the lock cylinder free. Once the lock cylinder is broken free, you can remove it from the lock body and replace it with a new one.
Here are some additional tips for drilling into a lock cylinder:
- Use a sharp drill bit. A dull drill bit will not cut through the metal of the lock cylinder as effectively and may cause the drill to slip.
- Drill slowly and carefully. Drilling too quickly can damage the drill bit or the lock.
- Apply light pressure. Applying too much pressure can cause the drill bit to bind and break.
- If the drill bit starts to bind, stop drilling and clear the chips from the hole. Continuing to drill with a bound drill bit can damage the bit or the lock.
- Once you have drilled a hole through the lock cylinder, insert a small screwdriver or other tool into the hole and turn it to break the lock cylinder free.
- Once the lock cylinder is broken free, you can remove it from the lock body and replace it with a new one.
Removing the Damaged Cylinder
Once the keyhole is drilled out, the next step is to remove the damaged cylinder. This can be tricky, but it can be done with patience and care.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver into the keyhole. Make sure the screwdriver is securely inserted and that the blade is facing the top of the lock.
- Gently tap the screwdriver with a hammer. This will help to break the cylinder loose from the lock body.
- Pull the screwdriver towards you. Once the cylinder is loose, you should be able to pull it out by hand.
- If the cylinder does not come out easily, you can try using a pair of pliers to grip it. Be careful not to damage the lock body when using pliers.
- Once the cylinder is removed, you can replace it with a new one. To do this, simply insert the new cylinder into the lock body and turn it until it clicks into place.
Cleaning the Lock Body
Once the plug has been drilled out, the next step is to clean the lock body. This will remove any remaining debris that could prevent the lock from working properly.
To clean the lock body, you will need the following tools:
* A small brush
* A can of compressed air
* A cotton swab
* Isopropyl alcohol
Step 1: Use a small brush to remove any loose debris from the lock body.
Step 2: Use a can of compressed air to blow out any remaining debris.
Step 3: Use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the inside of the lock body.
Step 4: Allow the lock body to dry completely before reassembling the lock.
Additional Tips for Cleaning the Lock Body:
* If the lock body is severely dirty, you may need to soak it in a solution of water and dish soap before cleaning it.
* Be careful not to use too much force when cleaning the lock body, as this could damage it.
* Once the lock body is clean, it is a good idea to lubricate it with a few drops of oil. This will help to keep the lock working smoothly.
Installing a New Lock Cylinder
Step 7: Remove the Broken Key Remnants
Once the lock cylinder is removed, you need to carefully remove the broken key remnants. This can be done using a pair of needle-nose pliers. Gently grip the broken key and pull it out in the direction it was inserted. If the key is too far inside the cylinder, you may need to use a drill bit to gently remove the remnants.
To do this, insert a small drill bit (1/16-inch or smaller) into the keyhole and slowly drill in a counterclockwise direction. Be careful not to drill too deep, as you could damage the lock cylinder. Once the remnants are removed, you can proceed to install the new lock cylinder.
Removal of Broken Key Remnants
| Broken Key Removal | Tools Required |
|---|---|
| Removal with Needle-nose Pliers | Needle-nose pliers |
| Drilling Removal | Drill with small drill bit (1/16-inch or smaller) |
Replacing the Deadbolt
Once the deadbolt has been drilled out, you can proceed to replace it with a new one. Here are the steps to do so:
- Gather your tools and materials. You will need a new deadbolt, a drill, a screwdriver, and a pair of pliers.
- Remove the old deadbolt. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding the deadbolt in place. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the deadbolt out of the door.
- Prepare the new deadbolt. If necessary, insert the latch into the hole on the edge of the door. Then, guide the deadbolt through the hole in the door frame.
- Secure the new deadbolt. Hold the deadbolt in place and insert the screws through the holes in the faceplate. Tighten the screws until the deadbolt is secure.
- Test the new deadbolt. Insert the key into the deadbolt and turn it to the locked position. Make sure that the deadbolt extends into the hole in the door frame and that the door is securely locked.
Safety Tips
When drilling out a deadbolt, it is important to follow some safety precautions to avoid injury or damage to the door. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris.
- Make sure that the drill bit is sharp and that the drill is in good working condition.
- Use a drill stop to prevent the drill bit from drilling too deeply into the door.
- Be careful not to damage the door or the door frame when drilling out the deadbolt.
Testing the Lock
Before you start drilling, it’s important to test the lock to make sure it’s actually dead. Here’s how to do it:
1. Insert the key into the lock and turn it. If the key turns easily and unlocks the door, the lock is not dead.
2. If the key won’t turn, try inserting it upside down. If the key turns upside down and unlocks the door, the lock is not dead.
3. If the key won’t turn either way, the lock is likely dead.
4. You can also try tapping the lock with a hammer. If the lock is dead, it will make a solid thud. If the lock is not dead, it will make a hollow sound.
5. If you’re still not sure if the lock is dead, you can try drilling a small hole into the lock. If the drill bit hits metal, the lock is dead.
6. If you’re drilling a hole and you don’t hit metal, the lock is not dead. You can then try to pick the lock or call a locksmith.
7. If you’re not sure if the lock is dead or not, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and assume that the lock is dead.
8. Drilling a hole into a live lock can be dangerous, so it’s important to take all necessary precautions.
9. Here are some additional tips for testing a lock:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a bright light. | This will help you see the keyhole and the lock mechanism more clearly. |
| Be patient. | It may take some time to test the lock and determine if it’s dead. |
| Don’t force the key. | If the key won’t turn, don’t try to force it. This could damage the lock or the key. |
| If you’re not sure, call a locksmith. | A locksmith can help you test the lock and determine if it’s dead. |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Encountering difficulties when drilling out a deadbolt is not uncommon. Resolving these issues effectively requires a systematic approach.
1. Insufficient or Incorrect Drill Bit
Ensure that the drill bit is sharp and of the correct size for the deadbolt cylinder. Dull or oversized bits can result in poor penetration and damage to the cylinder.
2. Misalignment of Drill Bit
Align the drill bit precisely with the center of the cylinder. Any deviation can lead to an off-center hole and hinder lock removal.
3. Obstructed Cylinder
Inspect the cylinder for any debris or obstructions. Remove any obstacles before drilling to prevent jamming and damage.
4. Hardened Cylinder
Some deadbolts feature hardened steel cylinders. Drilling through these requires a carbide-tipped bit and slow, steady drilling to avoid overheating.
5. Locked Knob
If the doorknob is locked, it can impede drilling. Apply pressure to the knob while drilling to keep it retracted.
6. Broken Drill Bit
If the drill bit breaks during the process, retrieve it using pliers or a magnet. Insert a new drill bit before continuing.
7. Seized Cylinder
Occasionally, the cylinder may become seized due to corrosion. Apply penetrating oil to loosen it and allow it to soak in before drilling.
8. Overheating Cylinder
Drilling can generate heat, which can damage the cylinder. Avoid excessive pressure and overheating by using a slow, steady drilling pace.
9. Lack of Lubrication
Lubrication reduces friction and facilitates drilling. Apply a lubricant such as WD-40 to the drill bit and cylinder during the process.
10. Restricted Workspace
Confined spaces can make drilling difficult. Utilize extensions or angled adapters to access the cylinder more easily while maintaining control and precision.
How To Drill Out A Deadbolt
Drilling out a deadbolt is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few minutes with the right tools. Here are the steps on how to drill out a deadbolt:
- Gather your tools. You will need a drill, a drill bit that is the same size as the deadbolt, and a center punch.
- Remove the door knob from the deadbolt. This will give you access to the deadbolt mechanism.
- Locate the center of the deadbolt. This is where you will drill the hole.
- Center punch the deadbolt. This will create a small dent that will help to keep the drill bit from wandering.
- Drill the hole. Be careful not to drill too deep, as you could damage the door.
- Remove the deadbolt. Once the hole is drilled, you should be able to remove the deadbolt by hand.
People Also Ask
What is the best drill bit to use for drilling out a deadbolt?
The best drill bit to use for drilling out a deadbolt is a cobalt drill bit. Cobalt drill bits are harder than regular drill bits, and they will last longer.
How can I tell if my deadbolt is broken?
There are a few signs that your deadbolt may be broken. One sign is if the deadbolt does not extend all the way into the door frame when it is locked. Another sign is if the deadbolt is loose and can be easily moved by hand.
Can I drill out a deadbolt myself?
Yes, you can drill out a deadbolt yourself. However, it is important to be careful and to use the right tools. If you are not comfortable drilling out a deadbolt yourself, you can call a locksmith to do it for you.
