Non-destructive entry first, always - and we re-key Schlage, Kwikset, and Baldwin locks on the spot while you watch
You get a price before we start. It does not change when we arrive. No surprises.
Deadbolt Installation in Chicago, IL
Deadbolt installation in Chicago typically costs between $95 and $250 per door, depending on the lock grade and whether we are retrofitting a new hole or replacing existing hardware. As a locally owned company, Novak Lock & Security provides upfront pricing for every project, ensuring the price quoted on the phone is the price you see on the invoice. We serve the entire Chicago area, providing our Residential Locksmith services for properties ranging from classic greystones in Lincoln Park to modern high-rises in the Loop. If you need a secure entry solution, call (331) 202-1318 to speak with a live person and schedule your service today.
A deadbolt is the primary line of defense for your home. When we arrive for an installation, we are not just turning a screwdriver. We assess the integrity of the door frame, the alignment of the door itself, and the security gap between the door and the jamb. Our team operates under The Haven Standard, a documented quality framework that ensures every lock is installed to manufacturer specifications. Whether you are upgrading to a high-security Medeco cylinder or installing a standard Schlage deadbolt, we ensure the hardware is seated correctly to prevent bypass attempts. We are part of the broader Residential Locksmith in Chicago team, and we bring that same level of care to every deadbolt we install.
When You Need Deadbolt Installation
Many homeowners call us when they realize their current hardware does not match the security needs of their neighborhood or when their existing lock has failed. We see several common scenarios across Chicago where a new deadbolt installation is the correct solution:
- Moving into a new home: If you just closed on a property in Wicker Park or Logan Square, you do not know who holds a copy of your existing keys. Installing a new deadbolt allows you to start fresh with a secure set of keys that only you possess.
- Hardware failure: Older locks, particularly those found in vintage Chicago buildings, often suffer from internal spring fatigue or cylinder wear. If your key sticks, turns hard, or fails to retract the bolt fully, the lock is compromised and requires immediate replacement.
- Upgrading security: Standard entry-grade locks are often vulnerable to bumping or picking. If you want to move to high-security hardware like Abloy or Mul-T-Lock, we can retrofit your door to accept these advanced cylinders.
- Door frame damage: A deadbolt is only as strong as the wood it is bolted into. If your door frame was damaged during a break-in or a forced entry attempt, simply replacing the lock is not enough. We often install reinforced strike plates or heavy-duty security hardware to restore the structural integrity of the entry point.
- Adding a second lock: Many homeowners choose to add a secondary deadbolt for extra peace of mind. We can drill and install a new deadbolt assembly on a door that previously only had a knob lock, provided the door material allows for it.
- Keyless entry integration: If you are tired of carrying keys, we can install electronic deadbolts that use codes or smartphone apps. We ensure these are installed correctly so the motorized bolt operates without binding against the strike plate.
Our Deadbolt Installation Process
At Novak Lock & Security, we do not believe in guessing. We follow a strict procedure on every job to ensure the work is done right the first time. Our process is designed to prevent the common installation errors, such as misaligned strikes or improper backset measurements, that lead to lock failure.
- Initial Assessment: We inspect the door, the frame, and the existing hardware. We check for proper clearance and ensure the door is square. If we find that the door frame is too weak to support a deadbolt, we will tell you before we start any work.
- Site Preparation: We clear the area and prepare the door. If this is a new installation, we use professional-grade jigs and hole saws to drill the door. We are precise with our measurements because a hole drilled slightly off-center will cause the bolt to bind, leading to premature wear.
- Security Caveat: Drilling into a door involves handling sharp tools and structural components. If you are attempting this yourself, be aware that improper installation can weaken your door or render your lock useless. If you are unsure about the wood density or the internal structure of your door, we strongly recommend hiring a trained professional to ensure the job is safe and secure.
- Installation and Alignment: We install the bolt mechanism, the cylinder, and the interior thumbturn or keyway. We then install the strike plate on the door jamb. This is the most critical step. We align the strike plate so the bolt extends fully into the framing, not just the door casing.
- Testing: We test the lock operation multiple times from both the inside and the outside. The key should turn smoothly, and the bolt should extend and retract without resistance.
- Documentation: Per The Haven Standard, we leave a documented photo record of the finished work with you. This serves as proof that the job was completed to our standards and provides a reference for any future maintenance.
We stand behind our work with our 365-Day Done Right Promise. If the lock does not function as expected within a year of installation, we make it right. Call (331) 202-1318 to get a firm price quote for your installation.
Deadbolt Installation Pricing in Chicago
We provide upfront, written pricing before we turn a single screw. We do not use bait-and-switch tactics. Our dispatcher provides a firm price based on the scope of work, and that is the price you pay. This policy has been the foundation of our business since 2002.
Pricing for deadbolt installation varies based on whether we are replacing existing hardware or creating a new opening in the door. Below are the standard ranges you can expect:
| Service Type | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|
| Standard Deadbolt Replacement (existing hole) | $95 - $160 |
| New Deadbolt Installation (drilling required) | $150 - $250 |
| High-Security Cylinder Installation | $180 - $350+ |
| Electronic/Smart Lock Installation | $140 - $220 |
The price includes the labor, the testing of the assembly, and the documented photo record we leave upon completion. If you have a quote from a competitor, bring it to us. We offer a Free Second Opinion on any written estimate. Call (331) 202-1318 for an exact quote and to book your appointment.
FAQs - Deadbolt Installation
Does the price change once the technician arrives at my home?
No, the price quoted by our dispatcher over the phone is the price on your invoice. We strictly adhere to The Haven Standard, which prohibits technicians from changing the price at your doorstep. We provide a firm, written quote before any work begins, so you never have to worry about hidden fees or upselling tactics.
How long does a deadbolt installation take?
A standard deadbolt replacement usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes, while a new installation that requires drilling a door from scratch can take up to 90 minutes. We prioritize accuracy over speed, ensuring that the alignment is perfect so the lock operates smoothly for years to come.
Can you install a deadbolt on a metal or glass door?
Yes, we install deadbolts on wood, metal, and fiberglass doors. Each material requires different tools and techniques. For metal doors common in many Chicago apartment buildings, we ensure the hole receives proper Door Reinforcement to prevent the metal from flexing. We assess the door material during our initial consultation to ensure we have the correct equipment for the job.
Is it better to replace the whole lock or just the cylinder?
If your hardware is in good condition but you want new keys, we can perform a Lock Rekey, which involves changing the pins inside the cylinder. However, if the lock is old, sticking, or you want to upgrade to a high-security lock like a Medeco or Abloy deadbolt, replacing the entire assembly is usually the better choice for long-term security. Call (331) 202-1318, and we can help you decide which option fits your security needs and your budget.
We are ready to secure your property with the same precision and documentation that we have provided to Chicago residents for over two decades. Whether you are dealing with a faulty lock or simply want to upgrade to a more secure system, you deserve a transparent, professional service. Call (331) 202-1318 today to speak with our team and get a firm estimate for your deadbolt installation.
Written by Daniel Novak, Owner at Novak Lock & Security Chicago, serving Chicago.