Finding the Perfect Locks for Your PINKYS Entry Door
Sometimes when installing a new door, it’s easy to forget the hardware—especially locks. One homeowner reached out to PINKYS after realizing she had an Air 4 Double Flat entry door but hadn’t purchased locks yet. She wanted guidance on what to look for locally to ensure a smooth installation.
Customer: I just realized I forgot to get locks for my front door. I want to pick them up locally—what do I need to know to make sure they fit?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: No worries! Since you have the Air 4 Double Flat door, you’ll need one active lockset and one dummy lockset because both door leaves are bored out. Let’s go over the measurements so you can pick the right locks locally.
Customer: Okay, what measurements should I pay attention to?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: The key specs are:
- Bore hole: 2 1/8”
- Backset: 2 3/4”
- Door thickness: 2”
- Center-to-center (for handles): 5 1/2”
Most locks are made for 1 3/4" doors, so for your 2” door, you may need an extension kit to make the lock fit properly.
Customer: Ah, good to know. So I just need to make sure the lock has a 2 1/8” bore and a 2 3/4” backset, and check for a 2” door compatibility?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: Exactly. The bore size ensures the lock cylinder fits, and the backset positions the latch correctly inside the door. Make sure the lock mentions it can work with a 2” door, or get an extension kit. That way everything lines up perfectly.
Customer: And for the dummy lockset, that’s just for the inactive leaf, right?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: Yes, the dummy lockset doesn’t have a latch—it’s purely for aesthetics and to match the active leaf. It keeps the doors looking uniform and operating smoothly together.
Customer: I want to make sure the handles line up properly, too. Does the 5 1/2” center-to-center refer to the spacing between the handle and the lock?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: Correct. The center-to-center measurement tells you how far apart the lever or knob and the lock cylinder are. Using a lockset that matches this will prevent misalignment and make installation straightforward.
Customer: Are there any tips for picking something locally so I don’t run into issues?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: Bring your measurements and specify your active and dummy lock configuration. Ask if the lock is compatible with a 2” door—if not, see if an extension kit is available. Most big-box hardware stores and locksmiths can handle this.
Customer: One more thing—I’m not sure about door handing. Do I need to worry about picking a lock for a left-hand or right-hand door?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: Good point! Most cylindrical locks are reversible for left or right doors, but it’s always smart to confirm. Just check the instructions or ask the store associate to make sure it can be installed on your door’s handing.
Customer: And what about the finish? I want it to look nice with the black door.
PINKYS Sales Specialist: It may not match exactly, and that’s okay! A little contrast can actually look good. Some homeowners even choose a brass or satin finish on a black door to make the hardware stand out. Just make sure the lock style coordinates with your door design.
Customer: Perfect. That gives me confidence I can get them today and not have to wait for a special order.
PINKYS Sales Specialist: Exactly! With your measurements, active/dummy configuration, attention to door thickness, and finish, you’ll be able to complete your installation smoothly.
Recap
- You’ll need one active and one dummy lockset
- Bore hole: 2 1/8”
- Backset: 2 3/4”
- Door thickness: 2” (check for compatibility; most locks are for 1 3/4” doors, may require an extension kit)
- Center-to-center spacing: 5 1/2”
- Verify door handing—left or right
- Finish may not match exactly; a little contrast can look great, some homeowners choose brass or satin finishes to make hardware pop
- Bring these specs when buying locally to ensure a smooth installation
- Confirm that the dummy lockset matches the active lockset for a cohesive appearance
With these details, homeowners can confidently pick locks locally and complete their door installation without hassle.
