how do I patch this hole on my door from installing a new lock? We would like to keep the previous lock in the door as a decoy
Hello @alweich
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your door.
The first thing I would suggest is to make sure that the old lock at the front will not come off easily if pried or lifted off the door. Looking at its mechanism, I can see that it was screwed onto the other section of the lock preventing it from being pulled out. I understand your idea of leaving it as a decoy, but I also recommend being safe in regard to installation.
If you are certain that the lock is stuck in place, I suggest cutting a small circular piece of timber and covering hole with it. I suggest using https://www.bunnings.com.au/selleys-130g-liquid-nails-fast-grab-strong-adhesive_p0615431 to hold the timber in place. Make sure that it is flat and in level with the door surface. Once the adhesive cures, I recommend sanding the surface before priming and painting.
Another option is to place a square piece of timber in front of the hole. Then mount the screws onto it and then into the old lock at the front. This will prevent the lock at the front from being pulled out. It won't be pretty inside, but it will be safe. The only compromise is that the new lock will need to be slightly lowered from your chosen spot.
Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag, @TedBear and @Noyade for their recommendations.
I also recommend checking out the stores Door Lock Installation Service. Especially if you are looking for a professional to install your door lock.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
Hi Eric,
Thanks so much for this information.
The lock above is actually not screwed in and can easily be taken out. Should I just remove that lock all together and try to patch the whole? If so, how would I do so?
Thanks!
If you wish to patch the hole altogether, I recommend the same process and that is to trim down a larger piece of timber and glue it inside the hole. For added security you can drill a pilot hole diagonally and screw the timber plug into the timber inside the door. Once secure all you need to do is to wait for the adhesive to cure and then sand it flat followed by priming and painting.
If you feel that the gaps are too big or your timber plug is not snug enough, I suggest using https://www.bunnings.com.au/turbo-175ml-builders-bog-flexipack_p1670144 to fill the gaps at the front and back of the door.
Thanks! How would I trim down timber to be the size of this hole? Does bunnings have any service to help with this as I don't have any equipment
I'm sorry but Bunnings does not offer this type of service. It will require some basic tools; you'll need a hand saw to cut the timber, a timber chisel and a hammer to cut into the cut section and form its shape. A hand drill will be necessary in order to drill into the plug and drill bits to turn the screw and anchor the timber plug in place.
However, if you feel you are not yet prepared to tackle this undertaking. I suggest engaging the services of a trade's person. They will have the tools and experience to properly plug up your door. I suggest posting the job on either Airtasker or Hipages in order to get a quote.
Good Evening @alweich
I would follow @EricL 's suggestions as they are what I would be doing as well. If you are unsure/dont have the tools I would head straight towards a locksmith or carpenter to get what you want.
Dave
Hi @alweich
The job is fairly straight forward for any decent local handyman to handle. There is nothing complicated here just the need for some experience and a couple of non everyday tools.
Nailbag
Hi @alweich, I don't understand how you can use the original lock as a decoy because the two seem to overlap in the space.
I would look at getting a stainless steel {or even aluminium) panel (for each side) that will cover the whole area such that the old hole is covered and the new lock looks right mounted on it.
You will need to fill in the gap on the edge of the door with bog and paint it.
