Can you install a deadbolt in a hollow core door?

• <div><p>Yes, as long as it’s thick enough for the deadbolt. Most interior hollow core doors are at least 1 1/2-inches thick, which is usually the minimum requirement for a deadbolt. You’ll want to find the lock block first before installing. Also, most hollow doors require additional reinforcement for locks, such as a reinforcement plate or plywood block.</p></div>

Are deadbolts worth it?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-are-benefits-deadbolt-lock.htm">benefit of deadbolt locks</a> is that they're much harder to force open than simple locks with pin tumbler mechanisms, so they may offer added security. This feature is why <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/locksmiths-say-deadbolt-key-home-security.htm">many locksmiths recommend deadbolts for home security</a>. For many households, this added protection and peace of mind is well worth the cost of installing a deadbolt.</p></div>

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Q: What factors affect locksmith pricing?

• <div><p>Costs depend on lock type, service complexity, labor, emergency availability, and whether security system integration is needed.</p></div>

Q: Can you install a deadbolt in a hollow core door?

• <div><p>Yes, as long as it&rsquo;s thick enough for the deadbolt. Most interior hollow core doors are at least 1 1/2-inches thick, which is usually the minimum requirement for a deadbolt. You&rsquo;ll want to find the lock block first before installing. Also, most hollow doors require additional reinforcement for locks, such as a reinforcement plate or plywood block.</p></div>

Q: What is the difference between a deadbolt and a regular lock?

• <div><p>A deadbolt has a different design, construction, and security level than a regular lock. Regular locks are mostly used for interior doors around the home, like bedrooms and bathrooms, and they usually include a locking mechanism on the inside. While regular locks are easy to use and install, they provide little security. </p><p>A deadbolt adds a layer of security and is most commonly used on exterior doors. The installation is typically more complicated, but they hold up to wear and tear.</p></div>

Q: Can you use oil to lubricate a lock?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s best to avoid using oil-based lubricants within a lock because they attract larger amounts of dust and debris. When this occurs, it can make it harder for you to operate the lock, or it can even cause damage to the internal locking mechanism. A dry lubricant is the ideal solution instead.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Locksmith Service pros in Houston, AK

*The Angi rating for Locksmith Service companies in Houston, AK is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Locksmith Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Locksmith Service companies in Houston, AK is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Locksmith Service needs.

Last update on January 17, 2026

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Locksmiths questions, answered by experts

Costs depend on lock type, service complexity, labor, emergency availability, and whether security system integration is needed.

Yes, as long as it’s thick enough for the deadbolt. Most interior hollow core doors are at least 1 1/2-inches thick, which is usually the minimum requirement for a deadbolt. You’ll want to find the lock block first before installing. Also, most hollow doors require additional reinforcement for locks, such as a reinforcement plate or plywood block.

A deadbolt has a different design, construction, and security level than a regular lock. Regular locks are mostly used for interior doors around the home, like bedrooms and bathrooms, and they usually include a locking mechanism on the inside. While regular locks are easy to use and install, they provide little security.

A deadbolt adds a layer of security and is most commonly used on exterior doors. The installation is typically more complicated, but they hold up to wear and tear.

The benefit of deadbolt locks is that they're much harder to force open than simple locks with pin tumbler mechanisms, so they may offer added security. This feature is why many locksmiths recommend deadbolts for home security. For many households, this added protection and peace of mind is well worth the cost of installing a deadbolt.

It’s best to avoid using oil-based lubricants within a lock because they attract larger amounts of dust and debris. When this occurs, it can make it harder for you to operate the lock, or it can even cause damage to the internal locking mechanism. A dry lubricant is the ideal solution instead.

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