Can you install a lock without drilling?

May 9, 2025

Installing a lock without drilling sounds like a dream—no power tools, no dust, no damage to your door. But is it really possible? The short answer is yes, but there’s more to it than just buying a “no-drill” lock and sticking it on. You have to consider your door type, the level of security you need, and how the lock will be used day-to-day.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of no-drill lock installations, explain the real-world limitations, cover the risks, and show you how to do it the right way. And yes, we’ll call out the nonsense and tell you where a drill might actually save you in the long run.

Let’s get into it.

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Why Would Someone Want to Install a Lock Without Drilling?

Not everyone wants to make permanent changes to their door—especially if you’re renting, dealing with a custom door, or simply not into DIY. Drilling can be intimidating, and for good reason. If you mess it up, you’re looking at damage that can cost more than the lock itself.

That’s why no-drill lock solutions have become more popular, especially with the rise of smart locks, adhesive lock systems, and portable locking devices.

People turn to no-drill installations when they:

Live in rental properties with restrictions.

Want to preserve vintage or high-end doors.

Need a temporary lock solution (for events, shared spaces, or travel).

Aren’t confident in their ability to drill accurately or safely.

But just because it’s more convenient doesn’t always mean it’s more secure. That brings us to the next big question.

What Types of Locks Can Be Installed Without Drilling?

There are a few main types of locks that are designed to be installed without drilling. Each has its strengths and limitations.

1. Adhesive-Based Locks

These use strong industrial adhesive strips to attach directly to the surface of the door. You’ll often find these in child safety locks, basic slide locks, or lightweight interior privacy locks. They're easy to install—but also easy to bypass if someone really wants in.

2. Over-the-Door Hook Locks

These sit on top of the door frame and clamp around the door. Some hotel locks and travel locks work this way. They’re handy, non-invasive, and don’t damage the door, but they’re not meant for primary home security.

3. Magnetic Locks (Electromagnetic)

Used mostly in commercial settings, these powerful magnets hold doors shut using electric current. While some versions can be installed without traditional drilling, they often need special mounting brackets or adhesives that require careful alignment.

4. Retrofit Smart Locks

These are installed over existing deadbolts and don’t require you to drill new holes. If your door already has a deadbolt, you can simply upgrade it with a smart retrofit lock like August or Level Lock.

Step-by-Step: How to Install a Lock Without Drilling

Let’s say you’ve chosen a no-drill lock that fits your needs. Here’s how to get it done without wrecking your door or your patience.

Step 1: Assess Your Door

Start by checking the thickness of your door, the material, and whether it’s hollow or solid. Some adhesive locks won’t stick well to textured or dusty surfaces. Metal doors can also be tricky due to poor adhesive bonding or magnet interference.

Step 2: Choose the Right Lock Type

Pick a lock designed for your specific need—don’t install a child lock expecting it to stop a burglar. For front doors, go with a retrofit smart lock or a clamp-on security device. For bedroom or bathroom doors, adhesive or hook locks may suffice.

Step 3: Clean the Surface

This is the most overlooked part. If you’re using adhesive, any dust, grease, or moisture will weaken the bond. Clean the area thoroughly and let it dry before sticking anything.

Step 4: Position the Lock

Measure twice, install once. Whether it’s adhesive or magnetic, make sure the lock lines up properly with its catch or receiver. Misalignment can cause the lock to fail under pressure.

Step 5: Apply and Wait

If adhesive is involved, follow the product’s cure time. Most adhesives need at least 24 hours before reaching full strength. Don’t rush this step—your safety depends on it.

Step 6: Test the Lock

Once installed, push, pull, and slam the door gently to see how the lock holds up. You don’t want to find out it’s weak when it really matters.

The Risks of No-Drill Lock Installations

Now for the blunt truth—locks installed without drilling aren’t always secure.

The biggest issue is strength. Adhesives and clamps simply don’t offer the same level of resistance as a properly installed deadbolt. If someone wants to force the door open, most no-drill locks won’t stop them. Some can even be peeled off with a screwdriver.

Another concern is wear and tear. Over time, adhesive locks can start to loosen, especially in humid or dusty environments. Magnetic locks can fail during power outages unless they have battery backups.

And of course, if you’re relying on a smart lock retrofit, you’re still depending on the security of your original deadbolt—which may be outdated or flimsy.

So while no-drill locks are great for temporary setups or added privacy, they should never replace a real, secure locking mechanism on external doors.

Challenges You Might Face

Let’s not sugarcoat it—no-drill installations come with their own set of headaches.

First off, adhesive strength varies wildly between brands. Some locks come with strong 3M tape, while others use off-brand glue that gives up after a few weeks.

Alignment issues are another pain. A lock that’s even slightly crooked might not latch properly, which defeats the whole purpose.

Then there’s the false sense of security. Just because a lock is marketed as “secure” doesn’t mean it actually is. We’ve seen too many people trust $15 adhesive locks only to be shocked when someone bypasses them with ease.

If you’re unsure whether your door is suitable for a no-drill setup—or you just want peace of mind—Brothers Locksmith can evaluate your door and recommend a proper solution. We’ve seen what works (and what definitely doesn’t).

Can You Install a Strong Lock Without Drilling? Yes—But It’s Rare

Most no-drill locks are designed for convenience, not security. That said, there are exceptions.

If you already have a traditional deadbolt, retrofitting it with a smart lock can give you serious functionality without drilling a single hole. Some high-end lock models also offer adjustable mounting brackets that don’t require extra hardware.

But if your door has no existing lock—or if you’re installing something from scratch—then you’ll almost always get a stronger, safer setup by drilling. And honestly, when it comes to protecting your home and loved ones, that small effort is usually worth it.

Preventive Measures for Better Security (Even Without Drilling)

If you decide to go with a no-drill lock, here’s how to make the most of it.

Reinforce your door frame. Even the strongest lock won’t help if the door can be kicked in.

Use additional locks. Layering a no-drill lock with a door wedge, chain lock, or floor bolt adds real strength.

Keep your lock clean and dry. Adhesives fail fast in bad conditions—maintain them like you would a real lock.

Don’t skip testing. Always test your setup after installation. Don't wait for a break-in to find out it’s weak.

Talk to a professional. If your lock feels flimsy or confusing to install, reach out to a pro. Brothers Locksmith is always available to help you secure your space properly.

Final Thoughts: When No-Drill Locks Make Sense—and When They Don’t

Yes, it’s absolutely possible to install a lock without drilling—but you need to go in with your eyes open.

For renters, travelers, or anyone needing a short-term or low-impact solution, no-drill locks are a great option. They’re easy, affordable, and don’t leave permanent marks. But they’re not miracle devices. They work best with other security measures, not as your only line of defense.

If your goal is real, dependable home security—especially on entry doors—then traditional drilled locks are still the gold standard. And if you’re not ready to handle the tools or make permanent changes, that’s okay. That’s what professionals like Brothers Locksmith are here for.

We can assess your situation and offer you the smartest, safest lock—drill or no drill. Because peace of mind should never come with guesswork.

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How to Avoid Getting Locked Out Again: Expert Prevention Tips

By Youmna Rehman • June 25, 2025

It happens to the best of us. You're running late, juggling groceries or half-awake on your way to work, and before you realize it—the door clicks shut, and your keys are inside. Getting locked out isn’t just inconvenient—it’s stressful, time-consuming, and sometimes downright expensive. The good news? It’s also highly preventable. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through smart, real-world strategies to avoid getting locked out again—whether it’s your home, office, or car. These expert prevention tips come straight from the locksmith trenches, and they’re easy to apply, whether you’re forgetful, busy, or just tired of relying on emergency locksmiths. Understand Why Lockouts Happen in the First Place Before solving the problem, we need to understand it. Lockouts typically happen due to: Forgetting or misplacing keys Keys getting locked inside a car or home Doors that auto-lock Broken or worn-out keys Malfunctioning locks or key fobs Most of these are preventable with simple habits, upgrades, or tools. Let’s break them down one by one. Step 1: Create a Key Routine That You Can Stick To One of the most powerful prevention tools? Muscle memory. Create a ritual around your keys—something small and repeatable every time you leave your home, office, or car. For example: Always touch your keys before shutting the door Say “Phone, Wallet, Keys” as a mental checklist Place a reminder near the door (“Do you have your keys?” sign) These tiny behaviors train your brain to check for keys automatically—no effort required after a while. Step 2: Store a Spare Key (But Not Under the Mat!) A spare key is your best backup—but only if it’s stored smartly. Avoid outdated hiding spots like under the doormat, flowerpot, or inside the mailbox. These are the first places burglars check. Instead: Leave a spare with a trusted neighbor or friend Install a secure, weatherproof key lock box with a code Store it in your wallet or bag if it doesn’t interfere with routine And whatever you do, never label your key with your name or address. If it’s lost, your home could be at risk. More on this in our guide: Why You Should Never Hide a Spare Key Under the Mat Step 3: Duplicate and Distribute—Strategically Don’t rely on one key to rule your world. Instead, get professional duplicates made and keep them where you’re most likely to need them. Some smart storage ideas include: One in your car (but hidden securely) One in your gym bag or laptop case One at your workplace One with your dog walker, babysitter, or close family member Just make sure you trust whoever has access—and always update your key plan after roommates or tenants move out. Step 4: Go Keyless With Smart Locks If lockouts are a recurring issue, it might be time to ditch the keys altogether. Smart locks allow you to unlock doors using: Keypads (PIN codes) Smartphones Fingerprint access Bluetooth or Wi-Fi apps Some models even let you generate temporary codes for guests or service workers—so you don’t have to hide a key or hand out spares. Check out How to Upgrade to a Smart Lock Without Changing Your Door for a step-by-step breakdown of modern options that don’t require full door replacements. Step 5: Regularly Inspect Your Locks and Keys Sometimes, it’s not forgetfulness—it’s a failing lock or worn-out key that locks you out. Signs your key or lock may be due for a replacement: Your key feels loose or stiff in the lock You have to jiggle it to get it to work Your key is cracked, bent, or visibly worn You hear clicking, scraping, or feel resistance when turning A quick inspection once a month can catch small issues before they leave you stranded on the porch. Need help deciding if your hardware is still secure? Read: When Should You Change Your Door Hinges for Better Security? Step 6: Have a Go-To Locksmith on Speed Dial In case prevention fails (because life happens), don’t waste time Googling at 2AM when you're locked out. Instead: Research a local, licensed locksmith now Save their number in your phone as “Emergency Locksmith” Confirm they offer 24/7 lockout assistance Check their reviews, verify their licensing, and build a relationship with them before you need them. Our guide on How to Find a Licensed and Trustworthy Locksmith Near You walks you through exactly how. Step 7: Use a Smart Reminder or Tracker If you’re forgetful (hey, we’ve all been there), tech can help: Use a Tile or Apple AirTag on your keychain to track misplaced keys Set location-based reminders on your phone to check for keys before leaving Use apps like “Alarmy” to set a custom checklist for leaving the house These small hacks go a long way in building dependable habits. Bonus Tip: Re-Key After a Lockout (If Needed) If your lockout was caused by lost keys, it’s safer to rekey or replace the locks afterward. Why? Because if someone finds your keys and knows where you live, your home is no longer secure. Not sure what’s best? We break it down in Rekey vs Replace Locks: Which Is Better for New Homeowners? Final Thoughts: Lockouts Are Avoidable With the Right Systems A lockout doesn’t have to be part of your weekly routine. With a few simple changes—like key duplication, smart storage, tech upgrades, and routine maintenance—you can make sure that panic moment at the front door never happens again. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being prepared. If you ever do get locked out again, don’t panic. Just call your trusted locksmith and take it as a reminder to refine your prevention system. You’ve got this—and your keys.