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Thinking about upgrading to a digital door lock but unsure if it’ll work with your current door? You’re not alone.

One of the most common questions we get at Locksmith Ninja is: can you install a digital door lock on an existing door? The good news is, yes, in most cases, you can. Whether you live in East Perth, Rivervale, Malaga, or anywhere across the metro area, it’s often quick and straightforward to retrofit a digital lock without needing to replace the entire door.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how digital locks work, what to consider before installation, and why working with a professional installer can save you time, money, and frustration.

Thinking of making the switch? Learn more about our electronic lock installation services here.

What Is a Digital Door Lock?

A digital door lock is a modern alternative to traditional keyed locks. Instead of relying on a physical key, you gain access through methods like:

• PIN code entry
• Bluetooth or Wi-Fi via smartphone
• Fingerprint scanning (biometric access)
• RFID cards or fobs

These locks offer greater convenience, enhanced security, and control over who can access your home, and when.

Is Your Door Compatible with a Digital Lock?

Good news: Most doors are compatible

Whether you have a timber, aluminium, or composite door, chances are you’ll be able to install a digital lock with minimal or no modifications. That said, there are a few things to check before installing:

Key considerations for compatibility:

• Door thickness: Most digital locks are designed for doors between 35mm and 55mm thick.
• Borehole size and position: If your door already has a standard deadbolt, it may be a simple swap.
• Material and frame: Timber doors are the easiest to modify, but aluminium and steel doors are usually fine with the right tools.
• Weather exposure: For exterior doors, especially in Perth’s coastal suburbs, it’s important to choose weather-resistant models.

If your door doesn’t perfectly match, don’t worry, our licensed locksmiths can adjust, drill, or reinforce your door as needed to suit most digital lock models.

Need your door adjusted or your old lock replaced? Check out our lock replacement services.

Can Digital Locks Be Retrofitted?

Yes, they absolutely can. Digital locks are designed with retrofitting in mind. Many models are made to fit directly into the space left by a traditional lock, meaning minimal modification is needed.

Some locks, like slimline digital deadbolts, are perfect for narrow frames or doors with unusual measurements. Retrofit kits are also available for more complex installs.

At Locksmith Ninja, we regularly retrofit smart locks onto:

• Front and back residential doors
• Internal doors for room-by-room access
• Airbnb and short-stay property entry points
• Sliding doors and security doors (with compatible models)

We offer fast, affordable digital lock installation across Perth, from Malaga to East Perth and beyond.

DIY vs Professional Installation: Which Is Best?

Can you do it yourself?

If you’re confident with tools and understand lock mechanics, it’s possible to install a digital lock yourself, especially models designed for easy retrofits.

But there are some risks to keep in mind:

• Misaligned hardware can lead to poor performance or jamming
• Incorrect installation may void the lock’s warranty
• Damaging the door or lock body can be costly to fix
• Smart functionality (e.g. app pairing, Wi-Fi setup) can be tricky

Why we recommend professional installation

Choosing a professional locksmith ensures:

• Proper alignment and secure fitting
• Firmware and app setup done correctly
• Weather sealing and durability
• Compliance with Australian standards
• Manufacturer warranty protection

We’ve handled hundreds of digital lock installs across Perth, and we’re happy to help you choose the right system for your door and lifestyle.

Best Types of Digital Locks for Existing Doors

Not all locks are created equal. When retrofitting, it helps to choose a lock that’s designed with existing doors in mind.

If you’re not sure which model will fit your door, we’re happy to assess and recommend the best fit during a site visit.

No Need for a New Door, Just a Smarter Lock

If you’ve been holding off on upgrading to a digital lock because you’re worried about your door setup, don’t be. Most doors in Perth homes are fully compatible with modern digital lock systems, and the upgrade is often faster and easier than expected.

A professional locksmith can help you choose the right lock, install it with precision, and ensure it functions flawlessly for years to come.

Upgrade to a Digital Door Lock with Locksmith Ninja

At Locksmith Ninja, we specialise in secure, reliable digital lock installation for existing doors across Perth. Whether you’re retrofitting your family home or upgrading a rental property, we’re here to make the process smooth, affordable, and stress-free.

Contact us today to get a quote or book your installation.