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 Atlanta, GA
Deadbolt installation in Atlanta typically costs between $95 and $240 per door, depending on the lock grade and existing door preparation, and we can usually perform this service the same day you call. At Novak Lock & Security, we provide firm, written price quotes before our technician touches a single screw. Whether you are upgrading your home security in Buckhead, replacing a damaged lock in Old Fourth Ward, or securing a new property in Smyrna, our Residential Locksmith services team handles the installation according to The Haven Standard.
A deadbolt is the primary line of defense for your home. When we install a new deadbolt, we aren’t just putting hardware on a door; we are ensuring the strike plate is properly reinforced and the cylinder is aligned to prevent bypass methods like bumping or picking. As part of our Residential Locksmith services, we work with premium brands including Schlage, Medeco, and Abloy to provide security levels that match your specific neighborhood requirements. If you need a deadbolt installed or replaced, call (470) 944-6813 for an exact, written quote.
When You Need Deadbolt Installation
Many homeowners in Atlanta wait until a failure occurs before considering a deadbolt upgrade. We recommend proactive installation when you notice specific signs of wear or security gaps. Here are the most common scenarios where our technicians are called for installation:
- Moving into a new home: If you recently purchased a property in neighborhoods like Inman Park or Virginia-Highland, you cannot know who possesses the old keys. We replace existing deadbolts to ensure you are the only one with access.
- Hardware failure: If your key is sticking, the thumb-turn feels loose, or the bolt does not extend fully into the jamb, the internal mechanism is likely compromised and requires replacement to prevent a lockout.
- Upgrading security levels: Older doors often feature entry-grade hardware that is susceptible to picking. We install high-security cylinders (locks that cannot be picked or bumped by standard tools) for homeowners looking for maximum protection.
- After a break-in attempt: If you find pry marks around your door frame or the strike plate is loose, the integrity of your current lock is gone. We assess the damage to the door and install a reinforced deadbolt that can withstand physical force.
- Adding a second lock: Many older homes in Atlanta feature only a knob lock. We install a separate deadbolt above the handle to provide the necessary security layer that a spring-latch knob cannot offer.
Our Deadbolt Installation Process
At Novak Lock & Security, we follow a strict procedure for every installation. We do not believe in guesswork. Our technicians follow these steps to ensure the lock functions correctly for years to come.
- Site Assessment: We inspect the door, the frame, and the existing bore hole. If the current hole is improperly sized or the wood is split, we address the structural integrity before installing the new hardware.
- Written Price Agreement: Per Haven Standard Clause 1, we provide a firm, written price before we begin. The price we quote on the phone is the price on the invoice. There are no surprises at the door.
- Precision Installation: We install the bolt and the strike plate. For high-security locks like Medeco or Abloy, we ensure the tolerance between the bolt and the strike is exact to prevent “play” in the door.
- Testing and Alignment: We test the lock multiple times to ensure smooth operation. The key should turn without resistance, and the deadbolt should extend fully into the frame without binding.
- Documented Photo Record: Upon completion, we provide you with a documented photo record of the finished installation. This serves as proof of the work performed and confirms the new hardware is installed to specification.
Deadbolt Installation Pricing in Atlanta
We believe in upfront, honest pricing. We do not use “starting at” pricing that leads to inflated bills once the technician is on-site. Our costs are based on the hardware required and the labor involved for the specific door setup.
| Service Type | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Standard Deadbolt Installation (Labor Only) | $95 – $130 |
| Deadbolt + High-Security Cylinder Install | $160 – $240 |
| Door Frame Reinforcement (Add-on) | $40 – $80 |
These figures cover the labor and standard installation requirements. If your door requires significant modification-such as drilling a new hole in a metal door or Door Reinforcement for a splintered wooden frame-we will discuss the exact cost with you before we begin. We offer free estimates over the phone, and we are happy to review any competitor’s quote you have already received. Call (470) 944-6813 to get your firm price today.
FAQs - Deadbolt Installation
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a deadbolt?
In most cases, replacing a deadbolt is more cost-effective than repairing one. Because deadbolts contain small, precision-engineered springs and pins, internal failures often indicate that the metal has fatigued. Repairing these components often costs nearly as much as a new unit, but without the security of new hardware. If your lock is failing, we recommend a full Lock Change to ensure reliability. Call (470) 944-6813 for a quote on a new installation.
Can you install a deadbolt on any type of door?
We can install deadbolts on almost any residential door, including wood, metal, and fiberglass. However, the installation method changes depending on the material. For example, a heavy-duty steel door requires different tools and strike plates than a standard wooden door in an older Atlanta bungalow. When you call us, tell us what your door is made of so we can prepare the correct equipment.
How long does a professional deadbolt installation take?
A standard deadbolt installation usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes. If we are replacing an existing lock with a similar model, the process is faster. If we are drilling a new hole or performing a Lock Rekey, it takes slightly longer. We prioritize efficiency, but we never rush a job if it compromises the security of your home. Everything we do is covered by our 365-Day Done Right Promise.
Do I need to buy the lock before you arrive?
You do not need to buy the lock beforehand. We carry a variety of high-quality hardware on our service vehicles, ranging from standard Schlage models to high-security options. If you have already purchased a specific lock you want installed, we are happy to perform the labor only. Just let us know when you call (470) 944-6813 so we can give you an accurate price for the labor portion of the job.
Safety Note: We advise against DIY deadbolt installation if you are not experienced with carpentry or lock mechanics. A misaligned deadbolt can be bypassed by an intruder or become jammed, effectively locking you inside your home during an emergency. If you are drilling into your door for the first time, please contact a professional to ensure the structural integrity of your entry point remains intact.
Written by Daniel Novak, Owner at Novak Lock & Security Atlanta, serving Atlanta since 2002.