Smart technology has changed the way people secure and access their properties. From homeowners to property managers, more people are switching to smart locks for their convenience, security, and modern design. But before you can enjoy the benefits, one important step comes first, the smart lock installation itself.

Not every door is ready for smart hardware. Some require adjustments like cutting a new mortise, resizing the backset, or aligning the spindle holes to fit the lock properly. Others might not be compatible at all, prompting some customers to consider purchasing a pre-fabricated door designed specifically for smart locks.

This brings up a key question: should you modify your existing door or invest in a new one? Both approaches have their advantages, depending on your door type, budget, and project timeline. In this article, you’ll learn the practical differences between modifying an existing door and choosing a pre-fabricated one, and how to decide which path makes the most sense for your space.

Whether you are upgrading your home, managing multiple rental units, or guiding a client on a construction project, understanding these options will help you make a smarter decision and ensure your smart lock installation delivers lasting performance.

Modifying an Existing Door: What to Expect

If you already have a high-quality or custom-built door, modifying it for a smart lock installation can be a practical option. It allows you to keep your existing design while introducing modern technology that fits your lifestyle or property needs. However, it requires skill, precision, and professional tools to ensure the lock aligns perfectly and functions smoothly.

A modification usually involves cutting or reshaping specific parts of the door to make room for the lock’s mortise and latch assembly. The most common adjustments include:

• Cutting a larger mortise pocket: Some traditional doors have smaller or irregular mortises that do not match smart lock mechanisms. Expanding or reshaping this space helps the lock body fit securely.
  

• Adjusting spindle holes: Spindle holes connect the interior and exterior handles. They need to align with the smart lock’s internal clutch to prevent jamming or uneven rotation.
  

• Resizing the backset: The backset defines how far the lock sits from the edge of the door. Adjusting it ensures the handle and keypad sit comfortably and function correctly.

Here’s a successful install video of the Smart Door Lock Face Recognition Plus on a pivot door. The locksmith made precise adjustments to the mortise pocket to ensure the new lock fit perfectly without affecting the door’s design.

The customer wanted to upgrade from a regular smart door lock to a model with more advanced features, specifically facial recognition for faster and more secure access. With the help of a professional locksmith, this upgrade turned out smooth and well-fitted, showing how even a pivot door can be smart-upgraded with the right installation expertise.

Hiring a professional locksmith is strongly recommended for this type of smart lock installation. A locksmith can evaluate your door’s material, thickness, and alignment before cutting, which prevents structural damage and ensures proper fitment. While modification may cost more in labor, it’s often worth it for solid wood doors, designer entries, or historically valuable installations where replacing the door is not desirable.

For many homeowners and small property owners, modifying an existing door provides flexibility. You can keep your current aesthetic while gaining modern features such as fingerprint access, passcode control, and mobile app management. When done correctly, this approach keeps your entry looking the same, just smarter.

Buying a Pre-Fabricated Door: Designed for Smart Locks

For many customers, especially those building new properties or renovating multiple units, buying a pre-fabricated door built for smart lock installation can be the more efficient option. These doors are manufactured with precision-cut mortises, spindle holes, and handle placements specifically designed for smart locks. This eliminates the need for extensive door modifications and minimizes installation risks.

Pre-fabricated doors also provide consistency. When you purchase several for a multi-unit building or office setup, you can ensure each door is built to the same measurements, which helps speed up installation and keeps quality control consistent.

 

Photo by Woodgrain

The main benefits include:

• Accuracy and alignment: Each door is machine-prepared to match smart lock specifications, reducing human error.
  

• Reduced labor costs: Less time is spent on drilling, cutting, or measuring during installation.
  

• Enhanced warranty coverage: Because there’s no alteration involved, both the door and lock often remain fully covered under warranty.
  

• Faster turnaround: For large projects, ready-to-install doors help meet deadlines more easily.

This approach also appeals to architects and contractors who need a streamlined solution for clients. Instead of coordinating door modification work, they can focus on selecting the right smart locks that align with the door’s material and thickness.

Well-known door brands such as Marvin, Pella, and Andersen have options that can accommodate modern smart locks with minimal or no modification. For most new builds, a pre-fabricated door ensures a smooth, precise, and secure smart lock installation from the start.

Comparing Costs and Long-Term Value

When deciding between modifying your current door or buying a pre-fabricated one, cost is often the deciding factor. However, it’s important to look beyond upfront expenses and consider long-term value.

Modifying an existing door typically involves labor charges for cutting, drilling, and locksmith services. The cost may vary based on the complexity of the door and the lock model. If refinishing or repainting is required after modification, that adds to the total.

Buying a pre-fabricated door has a higher initial cost since you are purchasing a new unit, but you save on manual labor and reduce the risk of errors or misalignment. Over time, the precision fit and minimal maintenance often balance out the expense.

From a value standpoint, both options work well depending on your situation. A properly installed smart lock on a modified door can perform just as effectively as one on a pre-fabricated door, provided that a professional handles the installation.

It’s also worth considering warranty implications. Modified doors may void certain coverage if not adjusted correctly, while pre-fabricated setups are typically designed to support both door and lock warranties. Regardless of which route you choose, a well-executed smart lock installation protects your investment and ensures lasting performance.

When to Choose Each Option

To help you decide which approach fits best, here’s a simple guide:

• Modify your existing door if it’s made of durable material, has sentimental or aesthetic value, or already fits your property’s architectural style. This option is best for homeowners who only need one or two upgrades.
  

• Buy a pre-fabricated door if you’re building new homes, managing multiple rental units, or updating several entries at once. It ensures uniformity and cuts down on labor time.
  
  

Before you decide, it’s best to consult a professional locksmith or contractor. They can measure your door, check backset compatibility, and confirm if your existing frame can support the new lock. A small consultation early in the process can save you from costly adjustments later and help guarantee a successful smart lock installation.

Real-World Scenarios: Lessons from the Field

The Connected Shop has seen both approaches succeed in real projects. Some homeowners preferred to keep their solid wood doors, choosing modification with the help of a locksmith. The results were seamless once precise measurements were followed.

One successful installation involved a Smart Door Lock mounted on a traditional wood swing door. The property owner wanted to keep the door’s natural finish while upgrading its access system. With help from a professional locksmith, the door was carefully modified to fit the smart lock without affecting its aesthetic. The result was a perfect blend of craftsmanship and technology, offering both style and secure convenience.

📸 See the full showcase here: Smart Door Lock on Wood Door Installation

For larger properties, such as apartment buildings and offices, contractors often select pre-fabricated doors that come smart lock-ready. This helps them install multiple smart locks quickly, with minimal customization.

 

 

A great example is a retrofit installation on a Marvin door line series, where the Smart Door Lock Slim was fitted without altering the door’s core structure. This retrofit proved that even premium doors can be smart-enabled with precision and expertise.
🎥 Watch the smooth retrofit installation here: Marvin Door Smart Lock Installation

 

 

 

In both scenarios, what makes the biggest difference is having the right professional support. Our locksmith partners report that most issues arise not from the product itself but from improper sizing or poor alignment. Once the door and mortise dimensions are accurate, the installation becomes smooth, secure, and reliable.

Expert Insight: The Role of Professional Installation

A professional smart lock installation ensures every mechanical and electronic component works as intended. Locksmiths use precise tools to check mortise depth, spindle alignment, and clutch direction, small details that significantly affect lock performance.

Attempting to install a smart lock without professional guidance can lead to uneven fitting, latch issues, or electronic malfunctions. Professionals can also identify whether a modification or replacement door is truly necessary, preventing unnecessary expenses.

At The Connected Shop, we work closely with expert locksmiths nationwide who specialize in smart door lock installations. Their hands-on experience ensures that each product performs at its best, regardless of the door type or brand.

Conclusion: Finding the Smartest Path Forward

Choosing between modifying your door or buying a pre-fabricated one depends on your priorities. If your door is structurally sound and worth keeping, modification might be the right choice. If you want a fast, precise, and clean setup, a pre-fabricated door could save time and effort.

In both cases, the goal is the same, a secure, efficient, and long-lasting smart lock installation that enhances your property’s safety and convenience. By consulting a trusted locksmith or professional installer, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the full benefits of your new smart locks without worry.