A local New Hampshire business called needing a refresh: replace deadbolts and knobsets on three doors and rekey them to a single key. They’d moved into a new building with a chaotic mix of locks left by previous tenants—abused doors and frames, and mismatched hardware.
As a trade professional, I love nothing more than working on brand doors and frames. Like an artist about to paint on a blank canvas, installing hardware on smooth hollow metal with new hinges, absent any rust, mistaken drilled holes, or sharp jagged edges is my preferred scenario. This is rarely the case, unfortunately. You are often working with a dirty canvas, already used and abused by the past 3 tenants, with the 4th hoping to extend the life of it just a little bit longer before having to pump money into new doors and frames.
The single hollow metal door had been butchered: a mortise lock converted to a tubular lock with patchwork push plates, a botched deadbolt latch hole (1-1/4”, too large), and a frame scarred like it was attacked with a hatchet. The door’s edge was brittle from rust, and its internal mounting supports crumbled when touched.
The Fix
I ordered wrap plates—thin, custom-fit metal plates that hide flaws and reinforce weak spots. On install day, the old hardware came off easily, but the rusted mounting tab shattered mid-removal. Thanks to the wrap plates, I salvaged the door: filing the mortise hole, smoothing edges, and cutting a clean recess for the deadbolt with a jigsaw. The result? A door that’s structurally sound, sleek, and secure—no need to slam it to get it to shut.
Final Verdict
This door wasn’t a lost cause. With the right tools and expertise, even the most abused opening can get a second life. All it needed was some life breathed back into it
Act Now Before Summer Gets Busy!
Need a similar door or lock overhaul? Summer is peak season—and we’re booking fast. Secure your service by June 30th and get 10% off your next mobile locksmith job with code SUMMER24. Don’t let outdated locks hold you back—call (603) 205-2635 today.