Install a Door Viewer
Safety and security are important to homeowners. One quick and easy
project you can do to add security to your home is to install a door viewer.
The following instructions will show you how to install a door viewer and
doorknocker. If you want to install only the viewer, skip the instructions for
the knocker.
Preparation
01 Measure the door's thickness.
It should be between 1-3/8" and 1-3/4". The
new door viewer must fit doors of
this dimension.
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02 Select the appropriate door viewer.
Smaller entry areas can be seen using a
160˚viewer.
Larger entries and open porches need a
wider viewer of 180˚or 200˚.
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03 Refer to instructions on and in the
manufacturer's packaging, if available.
Installing The Door Viewer
01 Use a pencil to mark the best vertical location for the viewer on the inside
surface of the door.
It should be installed at a height that all
members of the household can use.
If desired, install one viewer for adults and
another at a lower height for children or
handicapped residents.
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02 Use a pencil to mark the best vertical location for the viewer on the inside
surface of the door.
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03 If you’re installing a knocker, you’ll need to mark the holes for the
mounting screws.
Measure the distance from the viewer hole to each mounting hole, then translate those measurements to your door.
WARNING: Wear safety glasses and a dust mask when using a drill and drill bits.
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04 Drill the holes for the mounting screws.
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05 Using the same bit as the previous step, drill a pilot hole for the door viewer.
06 Using the appropriate size drill bit, drill the actual hole for the door viewer.
TIP: To prevent door surfaces from splintering, drill the viewer hole halfway through
the pilot hole from one side of the door, then halfway from the other side.
07 Open the door halfway to simultaneously access both the interior and exterior sides as you continue.
08 To install the knocker, from the interior side, insert the mounting screws in the door.
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09 From the exterior side, hold the knocker next to the screws to determine the screw lengths.
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10 Cut the mounting screws to the appropriate length.
Make sure you have a wire cutter that is made to cut screws.
Just thread the mounting screws into the appropriate hole in your wire cutter,
then snip off the desired length.
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11 Insert the screws, with washers, back in the door. When you see them poke through
the front of the door, line up the knocker, then tighten the screws with your hand.
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12 Tighten both screws with a screwdriver.
13 Insert the door viewer.
Make sure you have the lens on the exterior, and the barrel on the interior.
14 Tighten the door viewer in place with your hand, then a screwdriver if needed.
Some door viewers have a notch on the barrel side for tightening with a screwdriver or
even a coin. Check your manufacturer’s instructions for securing your door viewer.
TIP: If you are inserting the door viewer without the knocker, apply a small amount of
silicone sealant around the lens to keep moisture out. This tip is particularly helpful if
you don't have a storm door or overhang.
15 Test the viewer.
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Installing a door viewer is an easy project that allows you to greet visitors safely
and securely.
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Be sure to check out the other home security projects, with instruction sheets,
at Lowes.com/Videos.