Workshop
Ask a question

The Bunnings Workshop community can help with your home improvement projects.

How can I drill through a metal door frame?

pauloguanaes
Getting Established

How can I drill through a metal door frame?

Hello guys, I'm new at DIY and I'm installing a deadbolt to the door from my garage. I used the Ryobi wood and metal door lock installation kit and the wooden door part is done. However, I didn't notice before that the door frame I'm supposed to drill to install the Strike, is metal with cement (I think) filling it. 

I'm attaching a picture of the tools I have for the job (apart from hammer etc), from the door, door frame...

I have no idea on how to get this done, so I'm currently with a deadbolt that can't lock. 

Thank you for your help

Paulo

1000077650.jpg

1000077651.jpg

1000077653.jpg

1000077654.jpg

  

JacobZ
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Re: How can I drill through a metal door frame?

Hi @pauloguanaes,

 

The metal enclosure is called a rebate kit, like this Gainsborough Rebate Kit. There is a variety available for different locks and finishes.

 

If you can let me know which deadbolt you are looking to use, I would be happy to see what is compatible.

 

To cut out the rebate, a locksmith or carpenter would use a sharp chisel or a multitool. You would mark the location of the lock using a pencil, then cut away the material so the striker plate or rebate kit sits correctly in the door. It is reasonably easy to do, you just have to mark it carefully and take care not to cut outside of the markings.

 

Let me know what you think.

 

Jacob

 

Nailbag
Home Improvement Guru

Re: How can I drill through a metal door frame?

Hi @pauloguanaes 

 

That rebate kit @JacobZ has linked in is perfect. In fact I'm glad its been mentioned as I didn't even know they were available and always made my own.

 

The only point I can add is to ensure when measuring the 60mm backset for the deadlock, is that its measured from the furthest edge of the door.

 

Nailbag

 

Screenshot 2025-06-08 at 3.10.08 pm.png

Re: How can I drill through a metal door frame?

Hello @JacobZ ,

Thank you for your tips. 

Originally, I was trying to find a smart lock with handle to replace the Gainsborough but I couldn't find anything that would fit its original setup.

There's a Gainsborough smart lock that would fit, but it's too expensive. 

The Deadbolt I will install is a ultraloq u-bolt pro wifi (image below). Would that Rebate you posted the link work with it? Thanks.

Ultraloq.png

EricL
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Re: How can I drill through a metal door frame?

Hello @pauloguanaes 

 

There is a very good chance that the rebate kit will fit, but before you purchase anything, I suggest using the existing rebate set that is attached to your door already as it might fit as well. 

 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

 

Eric

 

See something interesting? Give it the thumbs up!

Re: How can I drill through a metal door frame?

Hello @EricL ,

I'll keep the current door handle as it is and I'll add the deadbolt above it, so I'll have to buy a new rebate.

So, what would be the steps here, after I buy the rebate?

  • Marking where the bore hole and latch hole will be drilled using the Ryobi Wood And Metal Door Lock Kit
  • Then, should I drill the bore and latch hole and then use the chisel to make room for the rebate? Or rebate first and then the holes where I marked previously?
  • On the other door, same question. Drill the strike hole first or chisel the door for the strike plate?

Thank you,

 

EricL
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Re: How can I drill through a metal door frame?

Hello @pauloguanaes 

 

I agree with your first and second steps, mark the bore hole where the latch hole will be drilled. Once the bore hole and latch hole have been drilled you can now position the rebate and mark it with a pencil before you use your chisel. 

 

For the third step once the rebate is installed close the door and spot the position where the rebate will be sitting in relative to the other door. Mark the position with your pencil then chisel out the spot before you drill the strike hole. My best advice is to make sure that the latch and rebate are in alignment and the same goes for the other door. In this manner the doors deadbolt latch will line up with the hole on the other door.

 

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

     

Eric

 

See something interesting? Give it the thumbs up!
Nailbag
Home Improvement Guru

Re: How can I drill through a metal door frame?

Hi @pauloguanaes 

 

remember your not rebating into your twin door setup thats why @JacobZ recommended the rebate kit that has the rider plate.

 

Nailbag

Why join the Bunnings Workshop community?

Workshop is a friendly place to learn, get ideas and find inspiration for your home improvement projects