How to Install a Peephole in a Door

Better home security in 15 minutes or less

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How to Install a Peephole in a Door

Lo-tech but extremely effective, a peephole let's you see who's on the other side of the door – before you open it. Installation is simple. Here's how to do it, no matter what type of entry door you have.

By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine

A peephole let's you see who's knocking

As sturdy deadbolts and reliable window locks have become more common, some crooks have learned that the easiest way to get into a house is to ring the doorbell. So never open the door unless you know who's on the other side. If you don't have windows that let you see who's knocking, install a peephole. Standard peepholes are inexpensive, and are sold at home centers and hardware stores. Installation takes less than 15 minutes, whether your door is wood, steel, fiberglass or a composite material. For a splinter-free hole through a wood door, use a brad point bit. With metal, fiberglass or composite doors, use a standard bit. Run the drill at full speed and press lightly—that creates a clean hole through the outer skin and inner foam core. Most peepholes require a 1/2-in. hole.

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Required Tools for this Project

Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.

    • Cordless drill
    • Tape measure

You'll also need a 1/2-in. brad point drill (for wood doors) or a standard 1/2-in. high-speed steel bit (for metal, fiberglass or composite doors).

Required Materials for this Project

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here's a list.

    • Peephole (available from home centers and hardware stores)

Shopping List

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Comments from DIY Community Members

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embeach

May 03, 4:12 PM [GMT -5]

A better peephole is the Doorscope wide-angle door viewer. It can be viewed from up to 7 feet away. No squinting through a tiny peephole. You can buy them at www.SecurityProductsInc.com

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How to Install a Peephole in a Door

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