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Quick Answer
Yes, it is possible to install a peephole in a metal door. A metal door can be drilled to create a hole for a peephole. However, drilling metal requires specialty drill bits and precautions to avoid damage. It’s recommended to use a step drill bit and work slowly when drilling the hole. Once the hole is drilled, a peephole designed for metal doors can be installed following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Drilling the Hole in a Metal Door
Drilling a hole in a metal door for a peephole requires using the proper drill bit. A standard twist drill bit will likely not be able to drill through the hard metal surface. Instead, use a step drill bit, also called a cone drill bit. Here are some tips for using a step drill bit on a metal door:
– Select a step drill bit designed for drilling metal. The bit should be labeled as suitable for steel or metal doors. Cobalt steel bits work well as they resist wearing down.
– Start with a smaller diameter and work up in steps. Step drill bits have various sized steps for gradually increasing the hole diameter.
– Go slowly to avoid damage. Let the bit do the work rather than pushing too hard.
– Use cutting fluid or oil to keep the bit cool and lubricated.
– Use a clamp to secure the door while drilling to prevent shifting.
– Drill perpendicular to the door. Apply firm, even pressure.
– Pierce a pilot hole with a smaller bit first to help guide the larger step drill bit.
– Frequently back the bit out to clear metal shavings which can build up in the flutes.
Precautions When Drilling Metal
Drilling metal requires safety precautions:
– Wear eye protection to guard against flying debris. Gloves will also protect from sharp edges.
– Make sure no wiring or anything else that could be damaged is on the opposite side before drilling.
– Use a punch or center punch to make an indentation to prevent the bit from wandering.
– Take your time and don’t rush the drilling process or apply too much pressure.
– Start with a smaller step on the bit and gradually work up to the needed diameter hole.
Drill Bit Options
In addition to standard step drill bits, other options like these can drill holes in metal doors:
– Cobalt drill bits – Made with cobalt steel for hardness to drill through tough metals.
– Left-hand drill bits – Help prevent climbing out of the hole.
– Installer bits – Designed for drilling directly into metal.
– Spotting drill bits – For centering and starting the hole.
Installing a Peephole in a Metal Door
Once you have drilled a hole of the appropriate size through the metal door, you can install a peephole made for a metal door. Here are the steps for proper installation:
Steps for Installing a Peephole in a Metal Door
1. Clean area around hole thoroughly and remove any burrs.
2. Insert the barrel of the peephole through the hole in the door from the exterior side.
3. From the interior side, screw the retaining nut on over the peephole barrel to hold it in place. Tighten securely.
4. Remove any protective plastic film from the peephole lenses.
5. Insert the peephole’s inner housing containing the optics into the barrel from the interior side.
6. Screw the inner housing tight within the barrel. Do not over tighten.
7. Snap the exterior cover over the outer end of the peephole barrel.
8. Test the peephole by looking through it from both sides. Make any adjustments needed.
Tips for Installing a Peephole
– Ensure the hole is the proper diameter for the peephole hardware.
– Clean the area well so surfaces seal tightly.
– Hand tighten only, do not over tighten screws.
– Adjust the angle if needed by loosening the retaining nut slightly.
– Use a peephole with wide angle optics for a better field of view.
Peephole Options for Metal Doors
There are a few different types of peepholes made specifically for installation in metal doors:
Reverse Peephole
This type of peephole has a wide angle viewer on the inside and a fisheye viewer on the outside. This allows you to easily see who is at the door from the interior side. From the exterior side, the fisheye lens makes it hard to see into the home.
One-Way Viewer
A one-way viewer peephole uses a series of lenses so you can see out, but people cannot see back in. This provides added security and privacy.
Doorscope Peephole
A doorscope peephole uses prisms and curvature for a wide 150-degree viewing angle through a small hole. It allows viewing from several feet back.
Security Peephole
Security peepholes use a wide angle viewer on the inside and a plug or cover on the exterior side rather than a lens. This prevents the peephole from being used from outside.
| Peephole Type | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Reverse | Wide angle inside, fisheye outside | See visitors easily, obscured outside view |
| One-Way Viewer | Lenses allow one direction viewing | Enhanced privacy and security |
| Doorscope | Uses prisms for wide 150° angle | View through small hole from farther away |
| Security | Wide angle inside, plugged outside | Prevents exterior peeping |
Conclusion
Installing a peephole in a metal door is definitely possible with the right tools and hardware. By using a step drill bit and drilling slowly, a hole can be created without damage. Peepholes designed for metal doors feature appropriate components to be securely installed. There are various types to choose from depending on privacy needs. With proper precautions, anyone can successfully add a peephole to a metal door for convenience.