How To Lock A Door Without A Lock In Only 5 Easy Steps - Revolar

Skip to content

Revolar is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

how to lock a door without a lock

Want to know how to lock a door without a lock? Make a DIY door lock using a fork. After making the makeshift door lock, insert the prongs in the latch slot then keep the door closed. Place the handle into the prong to secure the lockless door.

Not all doors have a home security system, so portable locks are needed. It is not impossible to secure a door without a lock, whether it is for single doors, double doors, inward opening doors, or inswing doors. Know the ways to lock a door without a lock.

Table of Contents

  • What You Need
    • Fork
    • Vise & Face Shield/Goggles
    • Hammer
    • Metal Saw
    • Marker
  • How to Lock a Door without a Lock
    • Step 1: Make a line to the latch hole and mark the prongs.
    • Step 2: Position the prongs inside the vise.
    • Step 3: Bend the prongs of the fork
    • Step 4: Cut the handle of the fork using a metal saw
    • Step 5: Put the DIY lock into the latch
  • Conclusion

What You Need

diy-locks

In order to lock a door with no lock, there are materials that you are required to have. There won’t be too much fuss since you may find them in your toolbox. Rubber band, a sturdy chair, and office chair can also be options for a door wedge, door bull, door stop, door barricade, door jam or security bar, but we will be using a fork.

Fork

makeshift-door-lock

You need a metal fork as a door lock that will suit any kind of door such as inward opening door and outward opening door. A dinner fork can also work as a lock for an interior door, front door, bathroom door or toilet door. Choose a fork that will fit into the latch hole.

Ideally, the prongs must be at least two inches long so that they will fit perfectly. Also, the handle must be thin enough so it can be easily slid between the prongs. Such a feature is ideal for door hinges. It will serve as the locking mechanism to prevent leaving the door open.

Vise & Face Shield/Goggles

lock-door-without-locks

Since you will be using a metal fork, it is advisable to use a metalwork vise, also known as engineer’s vise. It helps in holding metal pieces to make cutting and bending easier. However, make sure that the vise you will use has a bench or firm support so that it can function properly.

As you use the vise, wear a face shield or goggles to protect your eyes, especially when you are striking the metal with a power tool. Also, check if the vise has any cracks or damages. Look for another vise if it is damaged.

Hammer

lock-a-door-with-no-lock

A large hammer is required for bending the fork. Since you will be dealing with metalwork, the ideal hammer that will fit this kind of material is a ball-peen hammer. This type of hammer is used for bending a metal piece that is clamped in a bench vise. When it comes to metal fabrication, it is ideal in forming the material.

If you don’t have a ball-peen hammer, you can also use a rubber hammer as an alternative. Compared to other hammers with metal heads, the rubber hammer delivers a lower impact that prevents leaving impact marks. Aside from that, it suits shaping metal. This is also the tool that is commonly used for shaping jewelry and other crafts.

Metal Saw

diy-door-lock

If you want to finish the cutting process fast, you can use a circular saw. By using the right blade, a circular saw works great in cutting metals. You can use the inexpensive steel-tooth blades for this portable door lock. Also, you can choose from a corded or a cordless one.

However, if you don’t have a circular saw, you can also use the traditional hacksaw. When choosing a hacksaw, make sure that it has a sturdy frame and the tensioner is easily adjustable. You need to select the right size of teeth per inch (TPI), which will depend on the metal that you will cut. You can use a blade that has 14 to 18 TPI.

Marker

secure-a-door-without-a-lock

If you don’t like the mark to vanish easily and quickly, you can use a steel writer pen for portable locks. This kind of pen is designed as a writing material for non-porous metal surfaces. Also, it is used for marking metals that are about to be cut. You can use a damp cloth if you want to get rid of the markings.

You can also use an oil-based paint marker. Some are permanent but others can be removed by using water, detergent, or soap. You can also choose different colors; however, these colors may look dim or bright, depending on the type of metal where you will apply them. It is handy for DIY projects like creating portable door locks.

How to Lock a Door without a Lock

ways-to-lock-a-door-without-a-lock

Step 1: Make a line to the latch hole and mark the prongs.

First, you need to make a portable lock using a metal fork. Insert the fork into the hole of the latch present in any standard door, then measure how deep the fork goes. You will find it near the door handle for a double door.

Using a steel writer pen or oil-based paint marker, draw a line on the prongs to help you turn the fork into a portable lock. This will serve as a guide for the latch hole’s depth as you proceed to the next procedures.

Step 2: Position the prongs inside the vise.

As a safety measure, you have to position the fork at a right angle as you place it inside the vise. Insert it until you reach the line you have made earlier. Also, make sure that the vise is tight enough so that you can do the bending easily and perfectly.

Step 3: Bend the prongs of the fork

By using a ball-peen or rubber hammer, swing it to the fork until the prongs are bent 90 degrees. If the vise is tight enough, you won’t encounter any problem. But if you notice that the fork moves as you swing, tighten the vise again then repeat the step until you come up with the desired result.

Step 4: Cut the handle of the fork using a metal saw

Now, you can cut the handle of the fork by using your circular saw or hacksaw. After you cut the handle, check if it fits between the prongs. If not, you can file the fork so that the handle will fit. The handle will serve as your security lock for the door, so make sure that it fits perfectly so that you won’t have to encounter any problems in the future.

Step 5: Put the DIY lock into the latch

For the final step, hold the door handle to keep the door open then insert the prongs into the slot of the latch located near the strike plate and door frame. After you are done, you can now keep the door shut.

Place the handle of the fork between the middle prong until it is tight enough that it cannot fit any longer. Check if your temporary door lock works properly by closing and opening it using the door handle.

Conclusion

Are you satisfied after learning how to lock a door without a lock? You can lock door without lock for your own door. You can create your travelers security lock for bathroom doors or have additional security for sliding doors or lock double doors since this method is useful for most doors.

If you have tips for creating door jammers, door barricades, security bars and door wedges, leave a comment below. Also, you can share this post with your loved ones so they will learn how to make completely portable DIY locks for a door as a temporary solution.

Justin-WilliamsJustin Williams

I am the last member to join Revolar and might be just the luckiest to work with dedicated people like Teddy and John. Our team has established a process where my only job is writing the best content to deliver incredible ideas and guides.

home-lock-banner

Latest Posts

  • best wall mount mailboxThe Best Wall Mount Mailboxes for Long-term UsabilityFebruary 4, 2025
  • how to open a kwikset lock with a dead batteryHow to Open a Kwikset Lock With a Dead Battery? – Easy GuideFebruary 4, 2025
  • how to pick a tubular lock on a washing machineHow to Pick a Tubular Lock on a Washing Machine? – 2 WaysFebruary 4, 2025
  • how to reset a brinks 4 dial combination lockHow to Reset a Brinks 4-dial Combination Lock? – InstructionsFebruary 4, 2025
  • how to bypass a key card lockHow to Bypass a Key Card Lock and Access Hotel Rooms With EaseFebruary 4, 2025
  • how to pick a lock with knifeHow to Pick a Lock With a Knife: 3 Simple Methods to Practice at Home?February 4, 2025
  • Monitored vs Unmonitored home security systemMonitored vs Unmonitored Home Security SystemFebruary 4, 2025
  • how to remove safety first door handle lockHow to Remove Safety First Door Handle Lock: 3 WaysFebruary 4, 2025
Categories Select Category Alarms & Sensors (15) Doorbell Cameras (13) FAQs (56) Home Locks (391) Security & Surveillance Accessories (4)

Categories

Home LocksSecurity SystemsSurveillance Accessories

how to improve at lock picking

How to Improve at Lock Picking Skills for Beginners?

Posted: January 21, 2025

The notion that only criminals and burglars can pick a lock has been long gone. Many hobbyists practice lockpicking as … Read more

how to fix a loose door knob

How to Fix a Loose Door Knob? – A Step-by-step Guide

Posted: January 25, 2025

It is important to keep an eye out for irregularities in our home security, such as the integrity of our … Read more

best rfid door lock

The Best RFID Door Locks for Home or Commercial Usage

Posted: January 31, 2025

RFID door locks are an excellent option if you’re looking to beef up security around your rental property. These devices … Read more

More

best car alarm for vandalism

The Best Car Alarms for Vandalism and Theft

Posted: January 30, 2025

Car vandalism has been a problem for as long as these vehicles have existed. They’re easy targets for thieves to … Read more

best alarm clock with wireless charging

The Best Alarm Clocks with Wireless Charging

Posted: January 28, 2025

Alarm clocks with wireless charging capabilities have become a popular device among homeowners. It’s not hard to see why since … Read more

best radio alarm clock

The Best Radio Alarm Clocks to Wake You Up on Time in the Morning

Posted: February 3, 2025

Most people rely on alarms to wake up and start their days. It’s why radio alarm clocks remain such a … Read more

More

best ez keypad

The Best EZ Keypads 

Posted: January 25, 2025

Keys are one of the most common things people misplace. Losing your keys may not seem that big of a … Read more

Monitored vs Unmonitored home security system

Monitored vs Unmonitored Home Security System

Posted: February 4, 2025

Are you torn on what to choose between a monitored vs unmonitored home security system? The monitored security system will … Read more

Link Interactive vs Frontpoint

Link Interactive vs Frontpoint

Posted: January 25, 2025

Are you wondering which is better between link interactive vs frontpoint? If you want an affordable yet reliable home security … Read more

More

Recommended for You

Ring Stick Up Cam Not Detecting Motion

Ring Stick Up Cam Not Detecting Motion – Reasons & Solutions

Posted: January 30, 2025

Having a camera to record what happens outside or inside your home or building is a must to improve the … Read more

best homekit door lock

The 12 Best Homekit Door Locks (Compatibility with both IOS and Android Devices)

Posted: January 24, 2025

HomeKit door locks are a great way to add some extra security and convenience to your home. These devices will … Read more

best lock for apartment door

The Best Locks for Apartment Door

Posted: January 28, 2025

Many apartment door locks are now on the market, but you need to choose the best lock for apartment door. … Read more

do ring cameras record all the time

Do Ring Cameras Record All the Time? (Answered)

Posted: January 25, 2025

As a homeowner, it’s important for you to know what’s happening around your house. That is why installing a camera … Read more

Close

Tag » How To Lock Door Without Lock