The Right Tool for the Job | Handyman Near Me

I'm a big believer in making life easy for myself; why struggle to complete a job if a tool is readily available? With that said, sometimes you just do what you've always done, and experience gets you through it.

Take door latches for example ...

Typical door latch

These require a hole drilling in to the door, usually around 65mm deep (although it could be deeper depending on the latch). I've always done this by hand, and never had an issue.

Expensive Doors

However, on a recent job, my customer had bought some pretty fancy solid Oak doors, at a not inconsiderable cost. My first thought was "what if I screw up the hole?" I could easily scrap the door if I wasn't careful, and then that has the knock-on effect of being worried about the other doors.

I didn't much fancy that.

This was definitely a time that an investment in a tool was worthwhile. And besides, I like buying tools and equipment.

Door Latch Jig

Door latch jig ... super accurate holes every time

This tool rocks.

It takes a bit of setting up - right height, centre of door, and depth, but once it has been set, you can just attach a drill and get on with it, knowing that the hole will be square, and the exact right depth. It's perfect.

Door latch tool using a carbide tipped cutter for the perfect hole

Old-vs-New Method

Without a doubt, using this tool does take a bit more time, but that time is well spent - the hole is perfectly aligned, and at the right depth for the latch. Should you wish, you can even rebate for the plate at the front of the latch.

I don't think I'll ever fit another latch without this tool, and at around £50, it represents excellent value for money.