Installing a Cylindrical Lock is one of the fastest ways to standardise door security across residential projects, multi-unit buildings, and light commercial spaces. The hardware is compact, serviceable, and widely supported by common door preparations, which makes it ideal when you need consistent fit, repeatable installation, and predictable maintenance.

YAKO supplies Cylindrical Lock solutions with multiple materials and finish options, supporting stable production capacity, consistent specs, and project-oriented matching across doors and rooms.

Understand The Cylindrical Lock Structure

Most cylindrical locks are bored locks built around a latch, a chassis, and two trim assemblies. The exterior side usually carries the keyed Cylinder for entry functions, while the interior side uses a turn button or push button for privacy functions. This modular structure is why cylindrical locks are commonly selected when installers need reliable interchangeability.

YAKO’s cylindrical lock range is designed for practical door compatibility and configurable finishes for different project requirements.

Tools And Pre-Checks Before You Drill

Prepare a drill, hole saw set, measuring tape, pencil, screwdriver, and a chisel for the latch faceplate. Before installation, confirm:

• Door handing and function: passage, privacy, or keyed entry

• Door thickness compatibility

• Backset: common values include 60 mm or 70 mm

• Latch direction: the bevel of the latch should face the strike side so it closes smoothly

A practical reference height for the lock centreline is about 36 inches or about 91 cm from the floor, often used for consistency in new builds and replacements.

Door Preparation Checklist

Cylindrical locks typically require two intersecting bores:

• Cross bore through the door face for the lock body

• Edge bore into the door edge for the latch

If you are replacing an existing cylindrical lock, verify that the old holes are clean and not ovalled. If the door prep is new, mark carefully and drill slowly to avoid tear-out. Clean debris after drilling so the chassis seats flat and screws torque evenly.

Step-By-Step Installation

1. Mark The Centreline

Mark the lock height and transfer the centre point to both sides of the door. Mark the latch centre on the door edge at the same height.

2. Drill The Cross Bore And Edge Bore

Use the correct hole saw sizes for your lock set. Drill halfway from one side, then finish from the other side to reduce splintering. Drill the edge bore square to the door edge so the latch aligns with the chassis.

3. Install The Latch

Insert the latch into the door edge. Ensure the bevel faces the strike side. If there is a faceplate, trace and chisel a shallow mortise so the plate sits flush, then screw it down.

4. Fit The Exterior Assembly

Insert the exterior side through the cross bore, guiding the spindle and tailpiece through the latch mechanism. Keep the trim level so it does not bind.

5. Attach The Interior Assembly

Align the interior chassis with the mounting posts and tighten screws evenly. Avoid over-tightening, since excessive torque can distort the chassis and cause a stiff knob or lever feel.

6. Install The Strike Plate

Close the door to locate latch contact. Install the strike on the frame so the latch enters cleanly without scraping. A well-aligned strike reduces wear and improves perceived quality in daily use.

7. Function Test

Test with the door open first, then closed:

• Latch retracts and springs back smoothly

• Key operation is smooth for keyed entry

• Privacy button or turn function engages and releases correctly

• Door closes without forcing

This final check is essential for handover quality and reduces post-install service calls.

Common Issues And Fast Fixes

Spec And Finish Considerations For Consistent Results

For multi-door projects, specifying consistent materials and finishes reduces variation across batches and simplifies replacements. YAKO supports multiple material options such as stainless steel, aluminium alloy, brass, and zinc alloy, plus a broad set of finishes including SSS, PSS, PVD and other common architectural options.

If your application needs a knob-style cylindrical option, you can reference YAKO’s Cylindrical Knob Lock within your door hardware selection to keep the look consistent across rooms and doors.

Quality And Compliance Signals Buyers Look For

When selecting cylindrical locks for repeat installations, performance expectations often map to recognised durability and operational testing frameworks. ANSI and BHMA standards define performance requirements and test methods for cylinders and input devices, including cycle and operational testing.
Using products that are manufactured with stable processes and consistent dimensional control is one of the simplest ways to reduce installation variability and long-term maintenance.

YAKO has been producing architectural hardware for doors and related applications for years, and supports project-oriented supply with scalable production and consistent product categories across door hardware needs.

Conclusion

A cylindrical lock installation succeeds when door prep, backset selection, chassis alignment, and strike positioning are treated as one system. With careful marking, clean drilling, even screw torque, and a structured function test, you can deliver smooth operation and reliable latching across single doors or full projects. YAKO can support consistent specs, configurable materials and finishes, and stable supply planning to match your installation standards and project timelines.