subject: List of Door Latch Installation Tools and Their Usages [print this page] List of Door Latch Installation Tools and Their Usages
The top portion of a door latch is suspendable which enables to fit into the indent of the door frame. This keeps the door shut. The door latches are available in varying size and shapes however, most of the are attached to the interlock plate. Either for the installation of new latch or replacement of the damaged latch; you should always go for the right tools to get the job done. Below are the list of the tools required, the steps to fix and the usages of the tools.
Measuring tools:
The first and the foremost thing you should be doing is measuring the portion of the wood to be removed from the mortise panel of the door frame. Depending on the measurement; remove the required wood from the panel. The measurement should to of exact because, too much of exposure of the panel will be a hindrance in proper function of the door or cannot close the door properly. A measuring tape is required to measure the exact thickness of the plate. After you measure, put the plate over the door. Using a pencil, mark around the edge of the plate and repeat for the door frame as well.
Hammer/Chisel:
The second step requires hammer and chisel. A chisel is a shaping tool with cutting edge. Once the measurement and marking is done, the measure portion of the door has be cut off. Place the top of the chisel over the pencil mark and with the help of hammer, fix the chisel into the door wood. The chiseling has to be inside and downward. For smoothening the uneven surface over the wood, scrub the surface with a sandpaper.
Drill:
A drill is a hand tool use for making hole. There are different varieties of drills available in market. Go for the one which is handy; the cordless electric that runs on battery is ideal. The corded drill might be a bit complex to handle. The drill helps you perform many task.
Bits:
You may need two different types of drill bits, a twist and screwdriver. Use the twist drill and make a hole in the wood. Now you can drive in the screws on the mortise plate. The size of the hole should be made depending on the size of the screws. Now use the twist bit less thicker than the screw. After the hole is being made, now you can drill in the screws using the screwdriver. Look out for a good brand screwdriver for better performance. Now your door latch has been fixed!
