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Door Knobs, Levers & Deadlatches: How to Install a Latch the Right Way
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Quick definitions (plain‑English)
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Latch bolt (spring latch): The angled, spring‑loaded bolt that “clicks” into the strike when you shut the door.
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Auxiliary deadlatch plunger: The small pin beside the latch. When pressed by the strike lip, it locks the latch against “credit card” shimming.
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Deadbolt: A separate, solid bolt (no spring).
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Functions: Passage (no lock), Privacy (bed/bath), Entry (keyed), Dummy (pull only).
Why the deadlatch matters
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Prevents “carding” (slipping a card between the door and frame).
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Only works if the plunger stays on the strike lip while the main latch enters the hole.
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If the plunger falls into the hole, your latch isn’t secure.
Install it right: step‑by‑step check
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Orient the latch: beveled face toward the strike, plunger toward strike lip.
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Seat the latch flush in the door edge.
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Mount the knob/lever and check smooth action.
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Fit the strike so the main latch enters cleanly.
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Test the deadlatch: plunger should press against strike plate, not slip inside.
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Confirm gap/alignment: about 1/8" reveal between door & frame.
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Function test: latch clicks in, and can’t be slipped with a card.
Common mistakes
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Plunger falling into the strike opening.
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Strike too low or opening too tall.
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Latch installed upside down.
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No dust box or security strike.
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Weatherstrip preload keeping the latch from seating.
Finishes & style
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Finishes: Satin Chrome, Satin Nickel, Oil‑Rubbed Bronze, Bright Brass, Stainless.
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Levers vs Knobs: Levers are easier to use; knobs are traditional.
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Handlesets: Often paired with a separate deadbolt for exterior security.
Passage sets still provide protection
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Passage knobs/levers don’t lock, but they still hold the door to the frame.
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You can’t kick the door while also holding the handle retracted.
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Even non‑locking sets add resistance if installed properly.
Electronic locks & latch alignment
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Smart locks rely on a small motor to extend/retract the latch or deadbolt.
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If the latch binds or rubs the strike:
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The motor strains and may fail to lock/unlock.
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Batteries drain faster.
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The lock can jam, leaving you locked out.
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Always check alignment: the door should shut cleanly, the plunger should ride the strike lip, and there should be no friction on the latch.
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Action Armadillo’s Take
“Howdy, neighbors! Action Armadillo here. Deadlatches may look small, but they’re your first line of defense. Always make sure that little plunger rests on the strike plate — not dangling in the hole — or else your door’s about as tough as a screen door in a hailstorm. Whether you’re rocking a shiny passage knob, a fancy lever, or a high‑tech smart lock, it all comes down to proper alignment. Get the latch right, and you’ll get years of smooth, secure service. That’s my Ready Lock guarantee, partner.”
Summary: A correctly aligned deadlatch boosts everyday security, passage sets still add real resistance, and smart locks demand perfect latch alignment to work reliably. Finishes and styles are for looks — strike alignment is for safety.