Home Repair and Do It Yourself Tips from the Natural Handyman

Home repair articles and do it yourself information from the Natural Handyman
Rockler Woodworking's unique collection of must-have tools and stuff for do-it-yourselfers!

FREE "Handy" Magazine                  Start your own Handyman Business!                    Do-It-Yourself  Spas and Hot Tubs!   

Search Our Website

Google

The Natural Handyman
Web
 

Advertise on this site

Be sure to scroll down... there may be more than one question on this page!

Dear NH,

I am trying to install a security chain on my front door, and don't know which side of the lock goes on the door??  Also, do you have any installation tips?

TS

TS,

The security chain is mounted on the interior door moulding and the slide catch is mounted on the door, with the opening for the chain located away from the door edge.  The slide should be mounted close to the edge of the door per the manufacturer's instructions.  Mounting the slide catch too far from the edge of the door might make it difficult to use the chain!   This type of lock comes keyed or unkeyed.  Keyed security chains (shown) allow you to lock or unlock the chain from the outside!

There are similar security devices that don't use chains, such as the "Grizzly"swing-type Door Guard (right), which is stronger than a chain, still allows the door to be slightly opened to view visitors but doesn't scratch the door or frame the way a swinging chain can!

Do they work?  Yes, if you install the lock properly.  For extra strength, you might even want to use longer screws than the ones provided with the kit.  For example, the door frame side could use screws up to 2" to firmly mount into the structural frame of the door.  For the door side, screws with a length 1/8" to1/4" shorter than the thickness of the door will give the most strength.  Also, if possible use minimum #10 screws.

Of course, pre-drill all screw holes to make installation easier!

Return to NH's Question and Answer Index

 

Was this article helpful?
Like to show your thanks?
If so, please consider supporting us with a small donation... 
Click HERE for details!

Home    Repair Articles      Subscribe to our Newsletter     Q&A with NH
 Books     Links Library     Contests     About our site      Find a Handyman
Submit an article         Tell a friend about our site      Donate to our site 
Advertise on this site             Privacy Info            Comments or  questions

Copyright 2007 G. George Ventures, Inc.     All Rights Reserved  
Linking to our site is allowed and encouraged!