How to Bore a Latch Hole for New Door Hardware

Hardware upgrades are the fastest way to modernize a home, but they hinge entirely on the precision of your holes. A latch hole that is slightly off-center or angled will cause the latch mechanism to bind, making your door feel sticky or causing it to fail to latch completely. Getting this right requires patience and the right template. Even if the door came pre-drilled, replacing hardware often requires enlarging or adjusting these holes. By following the centerlines and using the provided templates, you ensure that your new handle sets flush and operates with a smooth, satisfying click every time.

1. Measure Twice, Mark Once. Measure the backset, which is usually either 2-3/8 inches or 2-3/4 inches from the edge of the door. Use the manufacturer's template to mark the exact center point for the main bore and the latch bore on the door edge.
2. Lock Down Your Guide. Secure the plastic installation jig over the door edge at your marked points. Ensure the jig is perfectly square to the face of the door and clamped tightly so it cannot shift during drilling.
3. Drill Front, Then Back. Use a hole saw (typically 2-1/8 inches) to drill the main hole through the face of the door. Drill halfway from one side, then stop and finish from the other side to prevent splintering the wood.
4. Stay Level and Straight. Switch to a 1-inch spade bit or hole saw for the latch hole on the edge of the door. Keep the drill perfectly level and perpendicular to the edge of the door so the latch sits flat.
5. Carve It Flush. Trace the outline of the latch faceplate against the door edge. Use a sharp wood chisel to carefully remove enough wood so the faceplate sits flush with the door edge.
6. Test Your Work. Vacuum out all wood shavings from the internal cavity. Test-fit the latch mechanism to ensure it slides in easily without friction.