When installing a Schlage lever lock, paying attention to the smaller details can save you a lot of trouble down the line. Here, we’ll walk you through some common mistakes made during installation and how to avoid them for a seamless lock installation experience.

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When it comes to installing Schlage lever locks—whether you’re a seasoned locksmith or a DIY enthusiast—there’s one common mistake we see all the time.

❌ The Most Common Schlage Lever Lock Installation Mistake

When inserting the lock, many people fail to properly engage the side tabs on the chassis. These tabs are critical because they allow the interior and exterior handles to operate the latch. If the tabs aren’t fully engaged, the latch won’t retract properly—even if everything else seems aligned.

What happens if the tabs aren’t engaged?
People insert the lock and think it’s good to go because it fits and screws in. But what they’ve actually done is engage the bottom of the lock—not the side tabs that are supposed to engage with the latch mechanism. So everything looks fine… until the door won’t open.

And that’s when we get the call:
“Help! My key turns, but the door won’t open!”

⚠️ Another Common Issue: Misalignment

Another mistake we frequently see is misaligned door prep, especially on hollow metal doors. Installers may overtighten the screws or mount the lock too close to the edge of the door. This misalignment causes the chassis to shift or disengage over time. Then when someone turns the handle or key, the internal parts move—but the latch doesn’t retract.

We see this a lot in commercial buildings where doors are slammed shut constantly. Over time, the misaligned lock works loose or fails entirely, leading to a serious lockout.

✅ Mr. Locksmith Pro Tip:

• Always double-check that the tabs on your Schlage lever lock are fully seated into the latch mechanism before tightening any screws.

• Be cautious not to overtighten screws, especially on thin or hollow metal doors.

• If you’re not sure, take a few extra minutes to test the operation before finishing the install.

🎥 Watch the Full Video:

See exactly what to look out for in our hands-on video demonstration on the Mr. Locksmith YouTube Channel.

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In summary, ensuring that the tabs are fully engaged and that the door is aligned correctly are simple yet critical steps in installing a Schlage lever lock. Avoiding these common mistakes will lead to a stress-free lock installation and lessen the chances of future lockouts.

Thank you for reading this guide. If you found this information helpful, please subscribe to my channel for more locksmith tips and techniques. You can also visit my website for locksmith training suitable for beginners, intermediate, and advanced learners. Explore my courses on covert and non-destructive methods of entry to expand your skills. Have a great day! Source: Terry Whin-Yates Mr. Locksmith Linkedin