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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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Materials

Drill and Drill Bits

Multi-Purpose Wire Cutter

Screwdrivers (Slotted/Standard and

Cross-head/Phillips)

Tape Measure

Pencil

Dust Mask

Safety Glasses

Ladder or Step Stool—if needed

Silicone Sealant—optional

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